The Mekong Delta province of Soc Trang has devised numerous measures to protect the forest belt along its 72km-long coastal line, with the co-management model proven to be one of the most successful.
The model of mangrove co-management was first piloted in Au Tho B hamlet, Vinh Hai commune, Vinh Chau township in 2007, and then officially implemented in Vinh Chau township, Tran De and Cu Lao Dung districts with funding of the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) under an agreement signed in September 2009.
Under the project, 240 households in Au Tho B hamlet signed up to join local administration and forest rangers in protecting the diversity of ecosystem and the coastal areas from sea encroachment.
The participants, divided into six groups, were involved in building plans for planting and protecting forests, and for using natural resources in the forest.
The success of the model can be seen today in the green mangrove forests spreading along 2km of coastline in Au Tho B hamlet. The local forest coverage has been expanded from the initial 115 hectares to 370 hectares.
Thach Soal, head of a mangrove co-management team in Au Tho B hamlet said locals considered the forests under their management as their own property, therefore, they take good care of them. Well-developed mangrove forests help locals feel more secure while protecting sea dikes, he said.
Thach Son, head of a mangrove co-management team in Vo Thanh Van hamlet, Cu Lao Dung district said, the team has established patrol teams to protect local forests. The team members regular meet up and discuss plans and objectives of mangrove protection.
Besides protecting mangrove forests and enhancing the awareness of preserving and developing mangrove forests, the mangrove co-management model has created solidarity in the community as well as stable livelihood for locals thanks to increase in resources.
Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Ngo Hung said the model is an effective measure to protect mangrove forests while improving the living condition of local residents thanks to sustainable exploration of natural resources.
It has also helped protect sea dikes, reduce coastal erosion, and expand forest coverage, Hung added.-VNA