Binh Phuoc: strengthening biodiversity conservation in Bu Gia Map National Park

At the seminar, the Center for Biodiversity and Development (CBD) which is under the Institute of Tropical Biology has proposed several solutions to improve management capacity for staffs as well as to attract local communities in biodiversity conservation. Specially, it is necessary to enhance the coordination between the National Park’s management Board, local authorities, forest rangers, border guards and police, and other departments to preserve biodiversity.

Participants said the local authorities should develop a mechanism for co-management of sustainable natural resources with local communities, and some models of raising and planting wild animals and plants at locality. In addition, there should be a program on local cultural preservation and development integrating to eco-tourism to create jobs for local people.

Having area of 26,032 ha, the National Park is the transitional area between highland and lowland in the South of Truong Son range, where is home to 1,096 flora species, including 1,035 species of 486 genera and 125 groups having name. Specially, 9 plant species threatened at global level are residing in the Park.

The Park is the hot spot of diverse animal species including over 70 vertebrate species, and rare animals listed in Vietnam's Red Book and worldwide. Gaurs and predators include 15 to 20 males, females, adults, nearly mature and immature individuals distributed in most of the Park.

In addition, many large predator species highly endangered as tigers, leopards, bears…are also present in the Park.

With the above biodiversity values, Bu Gia Map National Park should introduce more conservational activities to both tourists and local people, so that they would have a chance to enjoy the precious value of this eco-forest.

Translated by Thanh Pham (TITC)

                                                                        (Source: Monre)