Dong Thap (VNA) –𝓡 Efforts in preserving flora and fauna ecosystems associated with developing eco-tourism in the Gao Giong cajeput forest in Dong Thap province's Cao Lanh district have contributed to attracting more tourists to the Mekong Delta locality.

Preservation efforts

Covering a total area of over 1,500 ha, including about 1,200 ha of cajeput, the site is home to a variety of wildlife species. Director of the Management Board of the Gao Giong cajeput forest Huynh Thanh Hien said the agency focuses on communications campaigns to call on local residents to minimise the use of chemicals to avoid environmental impact and to step up wildfire prevention during the dry season. To protect flocks of storks and birds seeking shelter, the management board and relevant units have urged residents to refrain from poaching, while working to create a safe and conducive environment with abundant food sources, nesting trees, and water supplies to attract migratory wildlife for breeding. Tran Van La, head of a forest ranger team under the management board, said his team regularly coordinates with local police and military forces to conduct patrols and inspections both inside and outside the area, preventing illegal forest encroachment, and collecting hunting tools. The forest’s 40-ha bird sanctuary serves as a habitat for about 100 species of birds and storks, including rare ones.

Eco-tourism development

Tapping the pristine nature and rich ecosystem there, the Gao Giong ecotourism area has been established and opened to visitors since 2003. Known as a "green oasis" with stunning natural scenery, the mangrove forest in Gao Giong is home to various water bird species, including whistling ducks, wild ducks, and white egrets. Visiting the bird sanctuary in the early morning or late afternoon offers an unforgettable experience for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors to the site can enjoy documentary films, take in panoramic views of the expansive cajeput forest from an observation tower, and participate in an array of activities. According to Director of the ecotourism area Le Ngoc Kieu Oanh, the site has welcomed about 20,000 domestic and foreign visitors so far this year. To implement a sustainable management plan for the Gao Giong cajeput forest in the 2024-2030 period and turn tourism into a key economic sector, the People's Committee of Cao Lanh district has submitted a project on eco-tourism development to the provincial People’s Committee for approval. The project aims to attract over 40,000 visitors by 2030, including over 12,000 overnight holiday-makers, of them foreigners accounting for 30%./.