Conservation – contribute to the conservation of landscapes

The Western Nghe An Proposed Biosphere Reserve include Pu Mat National Park and 2 Pu Huong and Pu Hoat Nature Reserves, which are divided between nine administrative mountainous districts of the western Nghe An province following North – South axis. The Proposed Biosphere Reserve includes all Ca River head valley with 3 important effluents: Hieu River, Nam Non River and Nam Mo River. The areas belong to the ecological region of Annamite range. The ecological region of Annamite range stretches away between Viet Nam and Laos’s territory. Ca river-bed (Lam River) is the only hinge fault of Annamite ecological region that brings about diversified and plentiful complexity of Annamite ecosystem…
Building the Western Nghe An Proposed Biosphere Reserve will bring about a corridor that preserves biodiversity including flora and fauna of international and national importance as mentioned in IUCN and Viet Nam Red Book (section about the Northern Annamite biodiversity). Based on criteria for priority ranking of conservation system, the Proposed Biosphere Reserve is one of the top ranked regions of conservation system in Viet Nam.

Table 1: Priority rank belongs to criterion system of conservation system

(1: The lowest; 2: low; 3: moderate; 4: high; 5: The highest)

	Pu Mat National Park	Pu Huong Nature Reserve	Pu Hoat Nature Reserve
Geology	3	1	3
Landscape	4	3	3
Biological diversity	5	4	5
Forest Coverage	5	4	5
Forest landscape value	5	3	5
Genetic resource	5	3	4
Size of natural area	5	5	4
Actively realizable level	5	5	4
Total score	39/40	28/40	33/40

Source: Vo Tri Chung, 2005.

The Western Nghe An Proposed Biosphere Reserve is the place which converges many botanical constituents and mixes many geobotanical constituents such as: the world constituent appropriates 1.04%; the Asian tropical constituent appropriates 66.8%; the temperate constituent appropriates 1.08% and the Vietnamese endemic appropriates 16.6%. If based on the emigrant pathway, the Malaysia constituent from the South up appropriates 4.81%, the Southern Chinese constituent appropriates 11.67%,  Myanmar – Indian constituents appropriates 9.58%; the Himalaya constituents appropriates 3.77% and the Indochinese constituents appropriates 5.69%. The flora here all has temperate, subtropical and paleographical constituents.
The Western Nghe An Proposed Biosphere Reserve will contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation, which was favorably supported by on national conservation system and international commitments that the Government of Vietnam has made (including the Convention of biodiversity CBD, the Convention of International Trade on Endangered Species CITES). The conservable values can be described in more details as followings:
Pu Mat National Park (Core zone 1): 91,922 ha
Pu Mat has the largest and typical natural forest of Nghe An in particular and of the Northern Annamite mountain range in general. It is one of the areas that have the most diverse and richest flora and fauna in Viet Nam.
Landscape and ecosystem diversity:
With reference to the UNESCO classification of vegetation in 1973, the Pu Mat Proposed Biosphere Reserve has representation of 4/5 physiognomic classes, including: closed forest, woodland, scrub and herbaceous vegetation.
Formative composition of closed forest:
Representing this physiognomic class are two typical formation groups as: lowland monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest formation (below 800 m) and the low mountain monsoonal subtropical and tropical evergreen closed forest formation (800 – 1000 m).
The lowland monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest formation (below 800 m) includes lowland monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest formation sub-group and limestone mountain monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest formation sub-group.
The lowland monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest formation sub-group: This type of forest lies in the belt below 800m and is characteristic of the Northern Annamite that once covered most of the area of Northern Nghe An – Ha Tinh The main flora species of this formation sub-group are Parashorea chinensis, Hopea, Manglietia fordiana, Aglaia spectabilis, Canarium bengalense, Cinnamomum sp., Syzygium sp., Bischofia javanica, Madhuca pasquieri, Castanopsis spp., Lythocarpus spp. This type of forest is often composed of five strata (A1, A2, A3, B, C). A1 layer is 35-40 m in height including big log of woods that arrange themselves in an irregular and interrupted manner. Coverage of A1 layer is low.
The limestone mountain monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest formation sub-group: This class of forest covers areas at the middle of mountains, which stretches from Dinh Son (Anh Son district), following the National Highway No. 7 from Con Cuong district to Tam Dinh (Tuong Duong district). The commonly found species in these forest areas are Garcinia sp., Chukrasia tabularis, Allospondias lakonensis, Aglaia spectabilis, Tapiscia, Knema tonkinensis, Nageia fleuryi, Dracontomelon duperreanum, Hydnocarpus annamensis, Saraca dives. The forest structure often has 4 strata of which the dominant stratum is usually not obviously visible.
The low mountain monsoonal subtropical and tropical evergreen closed forest formation (800 – 1000 m) is represented by the following formation sub-groups:
The broad-leaved monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest formation sub -group: The common  wood species in this formation sub-group include Lithocarpus pseudosundaicus, Castanopsis hystrix, Syzygium ripicolum, Hopea mollissima, Vatica cinerea, Madhuca pasquieri, Canarium thorelianum, Pterospermum heterophyllum, Gironniera subaequalis.
The mixed broad-leaved and needle-leaved monsoonal subtropical evergreen closed forest Formation sub-group: This kind of forest distributes mainly at the height of above 1000 m. The popular species are: Fokienia hodginsii, Nageia wallichiana, Cunninghamia honishii, Podocarpus neriifolius, Dacrydium elatum, Dacrycarpus imbricatus, Eberhardtia aurata, Michelia foveolata, Markhamia sp., Lythocarpus aureus, Madhuca pasquieri, Elaeocarpus sp.
Species and genetic biodiversity
Regional flora: During surveys of 1997-1998, there are 1,297 vegetation species recorded. Recently, around 2,500 species have been reported, there are around 2000 species (74%) that belong to Phanerophytes. This is the predominant form of life and is a crucial factor that forms the ecology of monsoon subtropical and tropical forest in Viet Nam.
Regional fauna: The National Park is home to a number of animals that have been discovered recently and that strikingly fascinated national and overseas scientists, such as the Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, Megamuntiacus vuquangensis, Muntiacus truongsonensis and Nesolagus sp. There are at present 130 species of large and small mammals; 295 bird species; 54 species of amphibians and reptiles; 84 species of fish, 39 species of bats, which are seen only in Viet Nam and North-East Thailand. There are 14 species of tortoises, 305 species of butterflies and thousands of species of other insects. Among these species, there are 68 valuable and rare species recorded in Red Book of Viet Nam. As a consequence, this is considered the place that stores the most valuable gene pool of Viet Nam flora and fauna.
The 305 species of butterflies belong to 11 families; Sphingidae has 83 species and Saturniidae has 11 species. Seven (7) species of 305 species of butterflies have not been ever seen in Viet Nam and there are 2 species that have not been described. One of those species is apilo noblei, which is listed in “The insufficient data” (IUCN) and Appendix 1 of CITES. Four species of Sphingidae (night-fly) at Pu Mat are regarded as a new species in Viet Nam are Dolbina inexacta, Callambulyx poecilus, macroglossum fritzei and Phyllosphingia dissimilis.
Chongrichthyes and Osteichthyes are represented 82 species of 19 families of 544 freshwater fish found in Viet Nam; Amphibia has 23 species of 5 families of 1 genera out of 162 species that are present in Viet Nam; Reptilia has 50 species of 10 families of 2 genera (of which there are 15 Turtle species) out of 296 species in Viet Nam; Aves has 295 species out of 850 species found  in Viet Nam; Mammalia are represented by 85 species of 20 families of 8 genera (of which there are 39 Bat species) out of about 300 species in Viet Nam.
Recently, there are 73 species of Amphibia and Reptilia collected in a survey starting in 1998 that is continued up to now. The species that have just been studied are 23 species of batrachian, 11 species of tortoise, 12 species of lizard and 25 species of snakes
Of total of 295 species of birds including local and migratory birds, there are 22 species that are considered to be globally threatened and endangered (Collar et al., 1994). Two populations including Rheinardia ocellata and Buceros bicornis, Aceros nipalensis are of international significance, Ichthyophaga humilis is nationally significant. The survey is continuing to concentrate in the needle-leaved mixed forest, especially in the area that is suspected to host population of Sitta formasa.
Twenty – two (22) species of small mammal (Rodents and Insectivores) were recorded of which two are listed as threatened species by IUCN (IUCN 1996): Rattus remotus and Leopoldayms neilli.
Seven of 39 species of bats recoded are considered to be threatened species within the “Insufficient data” (IUCN 1996) Nesolagus sp, Chrotogale awstoni and Muntiacus truongsonensis are of highly valuable species that need to be conserved. Hylobates leucogenis/gabriellae, Callosciurus inornatus, Pygathrix nemaeus populations are the new discoveries in Pu Mat National Park. Here, there is the largest population of Elephas maximus that remained in Viet Nam.
According to the results of biodiversity surveys to date, 42 large mammals’ species have been confirmed to be present within the reserve. Of these species, 21 are regarded as key species by Eve et al. (1998) and 20 species are classified as threatened and endangered near threatened or in “insufficient data” by IUCN (1996). Three new species, two confirmed and one unconfirmed, are likely to live in the national park. As a result it has appeared on main directory of species of Eve et al.’s report (1998). These included Viverra tainguensis, Sus bucclentus and species undescribed – Nesolagus.
A number of valuable and rare species in Pu Mat National Park that are listed in Red book of Viet Nam (2000) includes Amphibia – one species; Reptilia – 19 species (with 12 species mentioned in Decree  48/2002/ND-CP and 10 species in Red List of IUCN);  Aves – 35 species and Mammalia – 34 species. Altogether, these 89 species account for 41.35% of species listed in Viet Nam Red Book). The species have significance for conservation (Level E in Viet Nam Red Book): Mammalia includes 15 species:Tranchipithecus hatinhensis; Pygathrix nemaeus, Tranchipithecus francoisi delacouri, Hylobates concolor concolor, Hylobates concolor leucogenis, Cuon alpinus, Ursus thibetanus, Helarctos malayanus, Viverra zibetha, Catopuma temmincki, Panthera pardus, Panthera tigris, Elephas maximus, Bos gaurus, Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, Megamuntiacus vuquangensis; Aves includes 4 species: Rheinardia ocellata, Lophura nycthemera, Lophura nycthemera, Aceros nipalensis; Reptilia includes 1 species: Ophiophagus hannah and osteichthyes includes 1 species: Labeo graffeuilli.
2. The Pu Huong Natural Reserve (Core zone 2): 43,972 ha
Landscape and ecosystem diversity
The reserve lies on the mountains heading North West – South East and North East – South West directions with the highest tip – Pu Hon reaching 1,447m. Although the area is not as large as Pu Mat National Park, it is habitat to all same kinds of plant composition as in Pu Mat
Primary forest: This is a form of subtropical evergreen forest. Major plant composition is Fokienia hodginsii that have trunk diameter reaching 1–2 m, Cunninghamia konishii and Quercus blakei. Besides, there are also the species: Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei and Vatica diospyroides. The forest humus floor is quite thick; somewhere there are mixture of species of Dendrocalamus patellaris and Arundinaria. Composition of plant of higher layer is primarily Madhuca pasquieri, Hopea mollissima, Michelia mediocris, Amesiodendron chinense. The lower layer hosts species of Litsea baviensis, Actinodaphne chinensis, Elaeocarpus sp., Knema tonkinensis, Quercus glauca, Castanopsis ferox and Ormosia pinnata… This area of primary forest almost has never been exploited for timber and firewood.
The primary dwarf forest seen at Pu Huong triangular tip has narrow area, stunted tree-trunk, with trees being adhered to by moss and orchid. There are typical plants and vegetables including Rhododendron arboreum, Clethra sp, Arundinaria, and Enkianthus sp.… The forest canopy is only as high as below 5 m, diameter of timber trunk does reach above 30 cm and the trees are small-leaved hardwood. The humus bed of the forest still has not been spitted and is frequently covered by humid and cold cloud. Besides, the difficult for access auxiliary rocky mountain forest still hosts many plant species. There are popular plant species such as: Excentrodendron tonkinense, Madhuca pasquieri, Syzygium sp., and Aglaia perviridis… This is the main distribution location and residence of species of Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, and Naemorhedus sumatraensis.
Secondary forest: Reaching 500 m in height, species of Parashorea chinensis is predominant on land along the banks of a spring. This kind of forest supports dominant species on higher layers like Amesiodendron chinense, Chukrasia tabularis, Madhuca pasquieri, and Michelia mediocris. Composition of high canopy plant is primarily: Madhuca pasquieri, Cinnamomum sp., Amesiodendron chinense, Castanopsis ferox. On lower stratum the chief species are Dendrocalamus patellaris, Arundinaria. Of secondary forest, bamboo forest makes up a large part, which scattered every mountain side. It is the forest type occurring after milpa and occupying a quite large area under study. Mixed with bamboo forest are also species of small woody plant and a few of other plants such as Ormosia balansae, Litsea baviensis, Rhodomyrtus and Melastomataceae.
Genome and species diversity:
In Pu Huong, the lowland subtropical forest formation (800 -1600 m) with typical plant composition of a little cold weather region as: Fokienia hodginsii, Podocarpus neriioflius, Cunninghamia honishii, Cephalotaxus manii together with the Northern plant representations as:  Aceraceae, Ericaceae, Fagaceae, Theaceae, and Illiciaceae. The presentation of Cephalotaxus manii is a specialty of this area. The specialty that needs to talk is forest flora composition on Pu Huong limestone mountain very specific including instructional species such as: Garcinia fagraeoides, Excentrodendron tonkinense, Markhamia stipulata, Streblus ilicifolius, and Taxotrophis macrophylla. According to preliminary statistics, here there are approximate 1,200 plant species of 533 genera of 138 families of which 33 valuable and rare species written in Viet Nam Red Book need to be protected.
A number of animal species seen in Pu Huong includes: Amphibia – 17(25) species, 6 families and 1 order; Reptilia – 35 (62) species, 14 (15) families and 2 orders. Of which there are 13 tortoise species; Aves – 176 species, 42 families and 7 orders; Mammalia – 63 species, 24 families. The species number of Viet Nam Red Book (2000): 1 (3) species of Amphibia; 10 (16) species of Reptilia. Of which 14 species in Decree 48/2002/NĐ-CP and 13 species in IUCN Red List includes Aves – 11 species, Mammalia – 26 (27) species and there are total 48 valuable and rare species making up 22.32% species numbers according to Viet Nam Red Book. There are eight endemic and valuable and rare species as: Tranchipithecus hatinhensis, Tranchipithecus francoisi delacouri, Nycticebus pygmaeus, Hylobates concolor, Pygathrix nenacus, Panthera pardus, Rheinardia and Lophura nycthemera.
3. Pu Hoat Nature Reserve (core zone 3): 56,837 ha
According to preliminary statistics of  combinative investigation team of Frontier – Biology Resources and Ecology institute in 1999, the area of nature forest here is quite large (> 56,000 ha) of which 34,000 ha are little affected by human beings.
Lanscape and ecosystem diversity:
Four formative classes including closed forest, woodland, scrub and herbaceous cover are present in the area. Primary forest here is still high 2,000 m. There are also often representations of subtropical and temperate flora such as: Aceraceae, Ericaceae, and Theaceae.
The alpine mixed broad-leaved and needle-leaved monsoon tropical evergreen closed forest:
The area is 2, 682 ha that is located at high belt above 1,600 m of mountain blocks Pu Hoat, Pu Pha Long, Pu Pha Nha and Pu Cao Ma. This forest type is little affected; as a result, it is highly primary. The chief vegetation is large-leaved trees and conifer. The key families are Lauraceae, Fagaceae, Theaceae, Araliaceae, Aceraceae, Rosaceae, and Orchidaceae. The seminude families include Cupressaceae, Taxodiaceae, Podocarpaceae with typical species as Cinnamomum liangi, C. iners, C. cambodianum, C. litseaefolium, Beilschmiedia, Litsea mollis, L. aurata, L. garrettii, Machilus, Castanopsis ferox, Lithocarpus corneus, L. coalitus, Quercus bambusaefolia, Quercus helferiana, Adinandra hainanensis, Eurya japonica, Schima wallichii, Croton maieuticus, Mytilaria laosensis, Symingtonia tonkinensis, Carya tonkinensis, Tsoongiodendron odorum, Eriobotrya cavaleriei, Photinia arguta, Altingia excelsa, Madhuca pasquieri, Fokienia hodginsii, Dacrycarpus imbricatus, Nageia fleuryii, Podocarpus neriifolius, Calocedrus macrolepsis, and Cunninghamia konishii..
The forest is composed of three strata, the ecological ally advantageous top layer forms forest canopy with species of large-leaved trees above-mentioned and conifers including Nageia wallichiana and Dacrycarpus imbricatus Elfin forest reaching above 2,300 m of Pu Hoat tip with the area supporting 200 ha is always covered by cloud, which is characteristic of high moisture, strong wind, with lower trees stricken thick by moss. The humus layer that has not been decayed yet thickens 25-30 cm. The tree height varies depending on slope and space. Composition of woody species are Rhododendron, Lyonia ovalifolia, Gaultheria yunnanensis, Carya tonkinensis, Quercus, Anneslea, Elaeocarpus, Quercus bambusaefolia and madlar-tree species of Orchidaceae (Dendrobium, Eria, Coelogyne, Thecopus, Oberonia).
The belt of Arundinaria forest reaching 2,300 m and widens about 200 m, with tree density approximately 20,000 tree/ha, rising on un-split moss layer, forms beautiful landscape of quite attractive mountain top. There are many endemic and valuable and endangered species in the forest that is almost undamaged. These include the ancient species of conifer (seminude plant): Fokienia hodginsii, Calocedrus macrolepsis, Cunninghamia konishii, Sewuoia. Pu Hoat is one of the very few samples on Earth that still host and bring about picturesque scenery on high mountain tops that always covered by cloud.
The broad-leaved monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest on medium mountain: The area consists of 26,371 ha, reaching 800-1,500 m of mountain side Pu Pha Nha, Pu Cao Ma, Pu Pha Lang and the East of Pu Hoat mountain. Forest grows on yellow feralite soil; original stone is primary riolite and granite. The emergent plants are broad-leaved tree with typical species of families of Fagaceae. There area also a number of representatives of Fagaceae such as Castanopsis ceratacantha, C. ferox, C. indica, L. trachycarpus, Quercus xanthoclada. Needle-leaved plants see presence of Dacrycarpus imbricatus and Nageia fleuryi.
The forest forms four layers, with the emergent layer here supporting no needle-leaved trees but species of Shorea chinensis, Commersonia bartramia, Madhuca pasquieri, Vatica diospyroides, Madhuca pasquirei, Chukrasia tabularis, Polyalthia sp., Aglaia gigantea, Diospyros, Markhamia stipulata, Syzygium sp., Manglietia fordiana, Cinnamomum sp., Castanopsis sp., L. trachycarpus,… This forest type is almost unaffected, highly primitive with many valuable and endangered animals living such as: Elephas maximus, Bos gaurus, Cervus unicolor, Ursus thibetanus, Ursus malayanus, and Muntiacus muntjak.
The broad-leaved monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest on Low Mountain: With height less than 800m, growing on yellow-red feralite soil, original stone is primarily granite, stone blocks, and the thin soil layer was eroded hard. There is presence of many light-liking families including Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Meliaceae, Moraceae, Papilionoceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Ebenaceae, Lauraceae, Fagaceae, and Elaeocarpaceae. The forest has three layers with the ecologically advantageous layer forms forest canopy with typical species: Engelhardtia, Garcinia, Endospermum, Peltophorum, Deutzianthus, Adenanthera, Ficus, Randia, Gironniera, Elaeocarpus, Litsea, and Beilschmiedia.
This forest kind has two auxiliary types: The auxiliary type of the broad-leaved monsoonal evergreen closed forest on Limestone Mountain: This auxiliary forest is located in the belt of evergreen broad-leaved closed forest on low mountain below 800 m. There are species of Pterospermum, Taxotrophis, Miliusa, Xylopia, Acronychia, Alphonsea, Garcinia, Microdesmis, Diospyros, Hydnocarpus, Aglaia perviridis, and Syzygium polyanthum. The bushy layer supports species of Ardisia, Psychotria sp., Euonymus, Rauvolfia verticillata, Licuala fatua, Pinanga duperreana.This auxiliary forest in Pu Hoat is still undamaged and very difficult for access. It provides a good environment for the living and sheltering of mammals of families: Viverridae, Pteromyidae and Hystricidae.
The auxiliary type of bamboo forest is scattered on below 600m along springs and near mountains. The bamboo forest appeared after milpa left a long time with species of Neohouzeaua, Lingnania and Dendrocalamus patellaris. A few popular trees mixed with the bamboos are Endospermum and Trema. There are sometimes species that play a crucial role in the regeneration of bamboo forest such as Chukrasia tabularis, Sindora tonkinensis, Amesiodendron chinense. Re-growth of wood log is difficult with only fewer than 2,000 trees/ha of which plus trees account for only about 20%.
Genetic and species diversity
A number of spermaphyte currently totals up about 600 species of 2,200 species, of which there are 30 valuable and rare species written in Viet Nam Red Book. The seminude plants, according to the preliminary study, occur in 7 species of which there are four valuable and endangered species namely Fokienia hodginsii, Calocedrus macrolepis, Nageia fleuryi and Cunninghamia konishii. These four (4) species are valuable and rare species with narrow distribution pattern, which have been found for the first time in Vietnam. The trunk diameter is very big, averaging 1.5m, and the trees can be 45 m tall. Among these there is a plant species of Cunninghamia konishii that has D = 2.8m and H = 50m. Pu Hoat Cunninghamia konishii is the biggest and tallest tree in natural forest, which is a symbol of not only Pu Hoat but also of total Viet Nam flora picture.

Table 2: Inventories of plant species studied in 1997

 

Classified group	Number of Family	Number of genera	Number of species
Polydiophyta Pinophyta Magnoliophyta Including: +Magnoliopsida + Monocotyledons	15 4 105   87 18	24 6 397   330 67	59 7 697   585 112
Total	124	427	763

 

Magnoliophyta: There are 26 species written in Red Book, of which there are remarkably valuable species as: Madhuca pasquieri, Garcinia fagraeoides, Hopea hainanensis, Parashorea chinensis, Altingia excelsa, Mytilaria laosensis, Carya tonkinensis.
Animals: There are total of 193 vertebrate species, 8 valuable and rare species of reptile including Manouria impressa, Cistoclemmys galbinifrons, Platysternum megacephanlum, Geomyda spengli, Naja jaja, Python molurus, Python reticulatus. The Avifauna occurs in 131 species with valuable and rare species such as Polyplectron bicalcaratum, Lophura nycthemera, Pavo muticus, Buceros bicornis, Aceros nipalensis, Microhierax melanoleucos.
As a first step, 45 animals were discovered, accounting for approximately 25% of total animals nation-wide (not to mention bats and mousses). There are 131 bird species of 10 orders, 33 families. Notably, the region supports some big species such as: Bos gaurus, Naemorhedus sumatraensis, Cervus unicolor, Megamuntiacus vuquangensis, Muntiacus muntjak and about 12 individuals of Bos gaurus. In Thong Thu region bordering Thanh Hoa province there are 26 individuals of five flocks. During the study, a strange specimen of a small samba deer species that weighed about 12-15 kg was found. The Specimen was AND assessed in Copenhagen, Denmark in September 1997 and was acknowledged to be a new species, named the Pu Hoat samba deer.
The population of Semnopithecus phayrei is remarkable with large density. Hylobates concolor leocogenis is distributed mainly on the mountains of the North of Pu Hoat-Pu Pha Long Mountain. Species of Panthera tigris, Panthera pardus, Felis temmincki, Pardofelis nebulosa, Cuon alpinus, two bear species (Ursus thibetanus, Ursus malayanus) and Viverridae gather in Pu Pha Nha mountain bordering Laos. Cuon alpinus are also usually seen, with about 3 flocks of 7 – 10. This is one of 27 valuable and rare species.
4. Cultural diversity:
Culture specific charateristics are represented in a range of nature reserves which has been established from Pu Hoat to Pu Huong, Pu Mat. Culture specific of a region which is situated in the upper of Ca river with tributary rivers rise from the mountain range of 3 nature reserves. It’s a bow-shaped terrain and a half-mountain half-plain belong to Nghia Dan, Tan Ky, Do Luong, Thanh Chuong districts, an important area between plains and mountains of Nghe An province that have created culture value of compatriots of various ethnic with the specific of western mountainous area- Biodiversity area attaches closely to diversified culture of ethnic groups in the west of Nghe An province.

Table 3: Biodiversity area attaches closely to diversified culture in the proposed BR

 

Diversified culture and tradition	Pu Hoat Nature Reserve	Pu Huong Nature Reserve	Pu Mat National Park
Ethnic minority community in NR	Thai, Kho Mu, H’Mong, Kinh	Thai, Kho Mu, H’Mong, Kinh, O Du	Thai, Dan Lai, Kho Mu, O Du, H’Mong, Kinh
Characteristics of native culture tradition	–          Cultural Tradition belong to Thai ethnic group (long-standing settlelment) –          Other ethnic groups Kho Mu, H’Mong and Kinh: settle lately, native culture effect	–          Cultural Tradition belong to Thai ethnic group (long-standing settlelment) –          Du – native ethnic people, scattered in the buffer zone –          Ethnic groups: Kho Mu, H’Mong, Kinh	–          Cultural Tradition belong to Thai ethnic group –          Du – native ethnic people territory in Nam Non river, accient kingdom of O Du clan –          Other ethnic groups: settle lately
Mode of Traditional cultivation	–          Humit rice farming is main, combining cultivate in sloping land, garden, cinnamon tree garden	–          Humit rice farming is main, combining cultivate in sloping land, garden	–          Humit rice farming is main, combining cultivate in burnt-over land –          Waterway exchanges in Nam Non river (typical) and Nam Mo, the upper of Ca river –          Catch fish well
Traditional culture	–          One of settlement centers of Thai ethnic people	–          Thai ethnic people character culture. Sphere of influence: wide and powerful	–          Thai ethnic people character culture. Culture heritage of O Du ethnic people attaches to O Du accient territory in Nam Non-Ca river
Subsistence and poverty	–          Remote area of mountainous region in Nghe An province: still poor, difficulty, haven’t developed yet	–          Nearly area belong to mountainous region iin Nghe An province still poor, difficulty, haven’t developed yet	–          Remote area of mountainous region in the west of Nghe An province, along the banks of great river and  highway, have favourable development condition

 

Human culture – culture specific characteristics of the entire region belong to Thai ethnic group. Besides, the special native culture belong to the original point value of O Du ethnic group. This is a clan which had brilliant culture in the confluence of Nam Non – Nam Mo – Ca river from 11th century and earlier. According to the statistic data of Nghe An province (30 December 2003), show that O Du ethnic group has the population of 528 people. They live in  poverty condition.
There are 4 ethnic groups living in the buffer zone of Pu Huong Nature Reserve which are Kinh, Thai, Kho Mu and H’Mong, contains 8,535 households with a population of 49,699 people. They live near the boundary of Nature Reserve. Conserving nature value and culture human value of interregional Pu Hoat, Pu Huong, Pu Mat Nature Reserves will contribute to enhance the effect of natural heritage general conservation in Ca valley’s river-head of the west of Nghe An province.

Development – foster economic and human development which is socio 

Development – foster economic and human development which is socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable

A range of nature reserves: Pu Hoat, Pu Huong and Pu Mat National Park covering approximately 500,000 ha (including the buffer and core zone), with a  population of 200,000 peoples will attaches to the natural resource value, landscapes and cultural tradition. It contributes to economic development to ensure the successful building of sustainable development strategy. Recently, the government has decided to build hydroelectric plant project in Nam Non river (center of O Du territory), namely, Ban Ve hydroelectric plant. It will be started in early 2006 and fished in 2010, covering an area of 4,500 ha water surface, an output of 75.5 MW. This project will contribute to impulse the development of economy for the entire region.
On the other hand, the potential for eco-tourism development base on natural resources in the region is diversified and abundant. Visitors are attracted by natural landscape and scenic beauty of entire region from Pu Hoat, Pu Huong and Pu Mat National Park, Pu Hoat – Pu Pha Lang – Pu Pha Nha mountain chains reach to Pu Khang, Pu Huong with a peak of above 1500m (the highest peak 2,452m) in Ca river valley in the north, Pu Xai Lai Leng, Pu Den Din, Pu Mat, Cao Veu in Ca river valley in the south. A system of rivers and streams in the upper of Ca river valley have created not only unique landscape but also bold human culture region of Thai ethnic people (along the banks of Hieu river, Nam Mo river, Khe Thoi river), O Du ethnic people (along the banks of Nam Non river), Dan Lai ethnic people (Khe Choang river) and intermix cultures along the banks of rivers and streams. However, natural landscape value and character value of cultures attach the potential of tourism have not been exploited yet.
The local government has some policy which encourages developing eco-tourism combining cultural tourism with the native community participation in forest resource protection and development. This is a strong point fostering sustainable development in the entire region. Tourism activities with the objects in order to enhance community awareness of environmental and natural landscape protection and traditional culture value which bring about the welfare benefits to local people. These activities have been contributing to the conservation of the full hierarchy of biodiversity, including landscapes, ecosystems, species and genes.
It’s the conservation work that assist in economic development. With wide forest area distributing in the riverhead zone, forest of Pu Huong Nature Reserve have important significance in environmental protection and riverhead protective for Ca river and Hieu river as well as flood and drought control function in the lower of these rivers.
The provincial people’s committee implements the guidance of Government following Document No 933/CP-DP dated 5 July 2004 on development assistance programme for ethnic minority who meet with difficulties and have danger of extinct. Carry out the project “Development assistance for O Du ethnic people in the mountainous region of Nghe An province ” in order to implement economic – cultural – social development and environmental protection in O Du ethnic region stability, long- term, conserve and bring into play specific culture factor of the native O Du.
At present, the buffer zone of Pu Huong Nature Reserve strengthen the economic activities in 12 communes belong to 5 districts: Cam Muon, Quang Phong communes (Que Phong district), Chau Thanh, Chau Cuong, Chau Thai communes (Quy Hop district), Chau Hoan, Dien Lam communes (Quy Chau district), Binh Chuan (Con Cuong district), and Nga My, Yen Hoa, Yen Tinh, Huu Khuong communes (Tuong Duong district), contiguous to the boundary of Nature Reserve with an area of 110,883 ha
The whole communes in the buffer zone of Nature Reserve are remote communes which are very poor in the 135 program. Inhabitants mainly work in agriculture sector, producing food in small scale, cattle grazing, and logging. Economic activities are based on natural resource. Advanced technology in agriculture has not been received adequate attention. Agricultural product prices are unstable. Consequently, local people’s income is generally low. Labor capacity is relatively poor; productivity is therefore not high. There are number of jobless people during leisure after harvest time.
Infrastructure like traffic system, schools, hospitals in the buffer zone have not fully supported the local community. Most of these are not electrically installed causing difficulties in economic development and cultural exchange.

Logistic support – support for demonstration projects, environmental education and training, research and monitoring related to local, regional, national and global issues of conservation and sustainable

Scientific research activities, environmental education are introduced in community activities. With the sponsorship of DANIDA, a programmed which assess the management solution, enhance community’s knowledge with the participant of local community to socio-economic development have been implemented in Dinh Lam commune, Quay Chua district, Nghe An province in order to identify sustainable development model with the core factor between forest resource and human culture tradition of Thai, Kho Mu, Kinh ethnic groups in land-use and water resource. In 2004, with the sponsorship and cooperation of SNV, a programme which assess natural conservation demand in order to identify the important factor ensuring sustainable development and natural conservation strengthening to go together in Pu Huong.
The encouraging agricultural expansion programme in order to raise the living standard has been developing effectively. According to Cinnamon project of Que Phong district, April 1997, on an average each cinnamon tree bring about 2.3 million VND per year. At present, there are approximately 750 ha near village and old milpa for rehabilitation of cinnamon tree – native specialty forest. On an average, each household can get the capital about 3,298,000 VND from the government for growing 2 ha of cinnamon.
Some effective economic activities:
– Home garden and fish pond: taking advantage of the flow of terraced field which can create home garden and fish pond for 110 households. Average income from fish pond can reach 90kg/household/year or 900,000 VND/household/year.
– Growing rattan tree: model investment for each household 1/5ha or 330,000VND/household. After 5 years, household will do it themselves.
– Enhancing the local community awareness: organizing for 30 households of 4 villages and 100 head of family in the buffer zone go to visit the model of production, land using, village building of typical mountainous region, nature reserves, national park. In order to raise the knowledge’s and encourage local community living within the proposed BR involvement in the natural conservation programmed.
– Community education on family planning is one of solutions which reduce pressure on natural conservation.

Encompass a mosaic of ecological systems representative of major biogeography regions, including a gradation of human intervention

he ecological systems representing the Proposed Biosphere Reserve are shown in the three reserves: the Pu Mat National Park, the Pu Huong and Pu Hoat Nature Reserve. The vegetation coverage of Pu Mat National Park is above 80% of the area. The vegetation arrangement is as follows: 62% of the area is primary forest (nearly undisturbed), whereas 30% is disturbed, open-canopy forest, 3% of area is secondary forest that is seriously affected (bamboo, bushes or scrub), 1% is agricultural land (along the Khe Khang valley).
The remainder of the area is riverine scrub and associated vegetation, rocks and bare land, plus areas covered by cloud that cannot be classified. The Pu Huong and Pu Hoat nature reserves are representative of forest of land and rocky mountain with many globally valuable flora and fauna. The landscape diversity is the most important factor forming high diversity of forest florea and fauna in the reserves. Forest plays a very important role in protecting many big mammals that are presently threatened on global scale such as Panthera tigris, Panthera pardus, Bos gaurus as well as the new recently found animals species such as Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, Macaca nemestrina, M. arctoides, Tranchipithecus hatinhensis, and Hylobates concolor leocogenis. A chimera includes specific biogeographic description as follows:
The primary tropical rainforest: These are closed canopy forest that have never been cleared or heavily disturbed by logging activities. This type of forest includes broad-leaved evergreen and deciduous forest and mixed needle-leaved forest, according to the survey of Khe Kho Khe – Lan Bo Cho, Lan Bo Cho – Dong Pu Huong, Khe Muc Pan – Khe Khoang, Muc Pan – Dong Pu Lon. Worth knowingly, the spring side primary forest in Muc Pan – Dong Pu Lon is home to big logs of timber with diameter up to 150 cm. This section of the forest has almost never been disturbed by timber loggers.
The secondary tropical rainforest: This is open crown canopy evergreen forest mixed with deciduous forest and re-growth scrub trees. The forest is heavily affected by human activities, for fuel wood and timber.
The dwarf-scrub forest: This type of forest is seen at Pu Huong triangle point, which covers narrow area and is home to stunted hardwood tree trunks on which a lot of moss and orchid can be seen adhering to. The forest highest layer is only less than 5 m tall; diameter of wood log does not exceed 30 cm. The trees have small leaves. The forest humus layer has not spitted and is always covered by humid and cold cloud.
The poor/degraded forest: These are areas that have been recently impacted by human activity, including bamboo and bush land. This type of forest is often found in places where slash and burn was practiced. Bamboo trees grow uniformly forming monoculture. If the soil was unfertile, the bamboos would grow less than other vegetation in the sector. Step by step, they may be replaced by woody bush trees and tree pioneers. The woody bush trees and scrubs are made up of forest under storey species and seedlings of forest plants that have formed bushes, which in some cases is as a result of grazing by livestock. This is seen in places where dryland agriculture took place but has been left abandoned for 5 – 10 years. Over time, if the area is not reclaimed for agriculture again, this type of vegetation will grow back into forest.
The rocky areas with scrub and herbaceous vegetation: In general, these sectors are formed by woody shrubs (less than 2 meters tall) and grass. The forest has been little disturbed, thus remained fairly intact and it is difficult to reach there. There are popular plant species such as Excentrodendron tonkinensis, Madhuca pasquieri, Syzygium sp., and Aglaia perviridis. This part of forest is main distribution location and residence of species of Pseudoryx nghetinhensis and Naemorhedus sumatraensis.
The tall and short grasslands: Tall grass cover appears a few years after agricultural land is abandoned. If the soil is not exhausted, it will develop into woody plants and /or bamboo. If the soil is not fertile enough, tall grass may become climax vegetation. The short grass, on the other hand, grows back immediately after a dry land agricultural field is left fallow. However, short grass is usually indicative of very poor soil quality and hence the vegetation may not further develop. These areas are often used for livestock grazing.
Active agricultural land: This includes dry land farming land (e.g. sloping land or cultivation fields where there is insufficient water for irrigation) and rice paddy land where irrigation is applied. Dry land agriculture land has been used for growing maize, hill rice and cassava. Usually these fields are cropped for 1 to 5 years, and then left fallow for 1 – 20 years, depending on the local population pressure. Rice paddies are found along the main rivers s and are used for production one or two rice crops per year. The limiting factors are water availability and seasonal temperatures.
Rivers and streams along survey lines Khe Co – Khe Hin Dong, Ban Cuom – Khe Quan have 4 – 6 meter bed with high slope, strong flow. Especially in riverhead of Khe Bo, there are falls reaching up to 40-50 m. The vegetation composition on two sides of Khe Bo is mainly Musa coccinea, Neohouzeaua, Platanus kerri, Altingia sinensis…
Milpa cultivation is observed on the survey lines Ban Khi – Ban Teo, along the road around Ban Cuom, survey line Ban Ta – Ban Huoi Lac, Ban Huoi Lac – Chan Pu Lon. The key crops are humid rice, upland rice, maize, bean, cassava and other plants. After cropped, milpa are often left fallow, and then recovered from 1 to 2 years, the main composition are species of Ormosia pinnata, Lystea bavesnis, Elaeocarpus sp.… Forests are slashed and burnt for milpa, then left fallow with shorter cycle, as a result, forest trees of slash and burn areas are lower than 10 – 20 cm in diameter, with canopy of 5 – 7 m.

Be of significance for biological diversity conservation

All area of Pu mat National Park and Pu Huong and Pu Hoat Nature Reserve is within the sphere of ecological region in Annamite mountain range (as defined and officially announced Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, IUCN, WWF in July/2003). The ecological region of Annamite mountain range stretches away between Viet Nam and Lao territory. The territory that belongs to Viet Nam extends from the Pu Luong mountain range (Hoa Binh, Thanh Hoa) through the Northern Central Provinces, the Southern Central Coastal Region and Tay Nguyen to the North Provinces and the Eastern South Viet Nam (Binh Phuoc, Dong Nai, and part of Ba Ria – Vung Tau). Ca river-bed (Lam river) is only the hinge fault of Annamite ecologically region that brings about diversified complex of Annamite mountain range ecosystem…
Establishment of the Western Nghe An Proposed Biosphere Reserve will bring about a corridor that preserves biodiversity including the valuable flora and fauna species (The North Annamite biodiversity). Based on levels for conservation (there are 8 norms and the maximum is 5), we can define ecological values of the three regions under study (a national park and two nature reserves). Pu Mat is the part in which priority is given to preserve national biodiversity. It is worth noting that the Park has the largest natural forest in the North of Viet Nam and has the most significant preserved ecological system of Annamite mountain range.
Pu Mat National Park is contiguous to the broad area of forests that prolong to the other side of the border with Laos and forests that extend from the South of Annamite range. This once again indicates its crucial importance to the region.
This is a very specific reserve of tropical forest that is never or little been disturbed. Furthermore, these are mixed forests showing succession of transition species representative of a small number of Nature Reserves in Viet Nam. The sector of needle-leafed mixed forests remaining here has very specific significance for conservation of those species that can only take place in this kind of environment. There are few forested areas at above 1,000 m altitude in the Reserve but these high lying forests are one of the specific sectors representing the protected area that is nearest to international border.
A network of river and streams also provides the Reserve with remarkable values of biodiversity. Specially, a large number of species found here have been threatened and endangered to extinction including some endemic species in Annamite mountain range. This is the place that hosts the largest population of endemic species in northern Viet Nam with valuable and rare populations of international, regional and national significance, for example Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, Elephas maximus, Pu Hoat samba deer, Chrotogale awstoni, Hylobates leucogenys/gabriellae and Aceros nipalensis.

Table 4: The preliminary results of the survey on physical conditions, forest resources and biological values and specific values of Pu Mat National Park and Pu Huong and Pu Hoat Nature Reserves

values	Pu Hoat Nature Reserve	Pu Huong Nature Reserve	Pu Mat National Park
Geology landscape	–          The highland of the North Annamite –          Riverhead of Ca river valley –                    Mixed with Karst landscape	–          The highland of the North Annamite –          Riverhead of Ca river valley –                    Mixed with Karst landscape	–          The highland of the North Annamite –          Riverhead of Ca river valley –                    Mixed with Karst landscape
The habitat system and nature ecosystems	–          The large-leaved evergreen forest mixed with some needle-leaved trees, especially some valuable and rare plant species; –          The evergreen forest in the North Annamite, river- bed and many big –                    Karst streams with forest	–                    The same with Pu Hoat and Pu Mat	–          The same with Pu Hoat and Pu Huong, there are more specific and valuable and rare species; –          Special Karst landscape mixed with the huge North Annamite range
Number of declining plants/number of species listed in international and national Red Book	–          The endemic and valuable and rare species –          736 species (in 1997); –          30 valuable and rare species –                    (4 endemic species)	–          612 species (in 2002) –          21 valuable and rare species –                    (4 endemic species	–          1297 species (in 2001) –          51 valuable and rare species –          (endemic specific species)
Number of declining  animals/number of species listed in international and national Red Book	–          The endemic and valuable and rare species –          193 species (in 1997) –          41 valuable and rare species –                    (6 specific species)	–          219 species (in 2002) –          45 valuable and rare species –                    (7 specific species)	–          938 species (in 2001) –          77 valuable and rare species –          (19 specific species)
Specifying preservative level, faction Priority preserve	Priority preserve	Priority preserve	Specially priority preserve

Provide an opportunity to explore and demonstrate approaches to sustainable development on a regional scale

Sustainable development based on 3 elementary fields: biodiversity, economic developing, hunger elimination and poverty alleviation movement which contribute to solve the social problem. Biodiversity conservation field is shown within 3 nature reserves in national nature reserves system. These nature reserves are received special interest from the central and local government and international conservation organization. This is a favorable condition for biodiversity, nature reserve and environment of local.

Table 5: Nature Reserves in national system of protected reserves which are institutionalized by government’s official document.

Classification of nature reserve	Name (place-name)	Area (ha)		Belong to districts
		Core zone	Buffer zone
National park	Pu Mat	91,113	100,370	Anh Son, Con Cuong, Tuong Duong
Nature reserve	Pu Huong	43,972	110,880	Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Que Phong Con Cuong, Tuong Duong
Nature reserve	Pu Hoat	56,837	70,068	Que Phong

In order to contribute sustainable economic development for this region, the government has decided to build hydroelectric plant project in Nam Non river (center of O Du territory), namely, Ban Ve hydroelectric plant. It will be started in early 2006 and fished in 2010, covering an area of 4,500 ha water surface, an output of 75.5 MW. This is important project which contribute to promote the potential of natural landscape and resource, along with traditional human culture preservation and living standards rising for local inhabitants.
Besides, the provincial people’s committee has directed the building of sustainable development resettlement project for the Dan Lai ethnic groups (Ly Ha, Tay Poong), Pu Mat area, and Con Cuong district. A general programme with the participant of local community in order to develop socio-economy have been implemented in Dien Lam commune, Quy Chau district (Pu Huong area), Nghe An province and build sustainable development model with the core factor between forest resource and human culture tradition of Thai, Kho Mu, Kinh ethnic groups in land-use and water resource. The other project “Development assistance for O Du ethnic people in the mountainous region of Nghe An province ” in order to implement economic – cultural – social development and environmental protection in O Du ethnic region stability, long- term, conserve and promote specific culture factor of the native O Du.
The propaganda and education activities have increased the local inhabitant’s awareness and knowledge on natural landscape and scenic beauty of entire region from Up Heat, Pu Huong and Pu Mat National Park, Pu Hoat – Pu Pha Lang – Pu Pha Nha mountain chains reach to Pu Khang, Pu Huong with a peak of above 1500m (the highest peak 2,452m) in Ca river valley in the north, Pu Xai Lai Leng, Pu Den Din, Pu Mat, Cao Veu in Ca river valley in the south. A system of rivers and streams in the upper of Ca river valley have created not only unique landscape but also bold human culture region of Thai ethnic people (along the banks of Hieu river, Nam Mo river, Khe Thoi river), O Du ethnic people (along the banks of Nam Non river), Dan Lai ethnic people (Khe Choang river) and intermix cultures along the banks of Ca rivers.
In economic development activities, eco-tourism is considered a key factor fostering the entire conservation activities which attach to tourism service in order to improve and raise the inhabitant’s living standard gradually. Tourism and cultural activities, festival of ethnic groups have been developing. The conservation of the full hierarchy of biodiversity, including landscapes, ecosystems, species and genes, especially primeval forest will attract tourist in the coming time. The provincial people’s committee has guided these activities as a part of their sustainable development strategy.

Table 6: Tourist destination and line attach to cultural activities and biodiversity conservation.

 

Line-destination	Typical culture value	Biodiversity landscape value
Along Hieu river enter to Ca river	–          Thai ethnic group culture in Kim Son, Que Phong –          Festival, culture of Kho Mu, H’ Mong  and Kinh ethnic groups	–          Primary old forest on high mountain range –          Limestone mountain cave –          Waterfall
Along Nam Non river to Nam Mo river junction enter to the upper of Ca river	–          Daily activities of O Du ethnic group –          Vestiges of O Du ancient culture –          Exchanges Festival on the river, catch fish –          Ban Ve Hydroelectric Plant	–          Primary old forest on high mountain range –          Limestone mountain cave –          Waterfall
Along Ca river from Cua Rao down Ky Son, Tuong Duong, Con Cuong, Anh Son regions	–          Interfere and combined culture value of ethnic groups: Thai, Kinh, Kho Mu –          Cultivation mode of ethnic groups –          Space distribution of townlet, district, village	–          Primary old forest on mountain range along river –          Limestone mountain cave –          Waterfall –          Natural forests
Exploration line Khe Thoi, Khe Choang, Nam Non upriver, conquer the peak of Pu  Hoat, Pu Huong, Pu Mat mountains	–          Residence in the ancient time of Kho Mu, O Du, Dan Lai ethnic groups –          To learn about the native knowledge system	–          Rare flora and fauna

Have an appropriate size to serve the three functions of biosphere reserves

The proposed biosphere reserve covers an area of 1,303,285 ha belong to 9 mountainous district (Con Cuong, Anh Son, Tuong Duong, Que Phong, Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Ky Son, Thanh Chuong, Tan Ky). This is the biggest biosphere reserve of Vietnam. These areas are of an appropriate size with three core, buffer and transition zones of existing protected areas to serve the three functions of biosphere reserves integrated into a research and development agenda where all areas are complementary. These areas are suitable for demonstrating sustainable uses of natural resources in local communities.
Biodiversity conservation activities will be served the three functions of biosphere reserve with total area of 191,922 ha (core zone 1: Pu Mat National Park 91,113 ha, core zone 2: Pu Huong Nature Reserve 43,972 ha and core zone 3: Pu Hoat Nature Reserve 56,837 ha). These core zones belong to nature reserves in a system of national nature reserves which are managed by statute documents and instructions of the government. These activities also contribute to implement Convention on Biological Diversity which Vietnam’s government has committed.
Economic activities with a view to raise the income and improve the living standards for local people will be implemented in the buffer zone. This area covers an area of 503,207 ha. However, the economic development activities are controlled by the local government in order to expand environmentally friendly industry. Eco-tourism is one of priority activities in the region. The extensive buffer zone will create a secure corridor for bird and rare animal
Agricultural, industrial activities and service along with the infrastructure building and finishing will support effectively for economic development in the transition zone which covering 608,093 ha. The provincial people’s committee and related agencies have initially implemented the changing of cultivated crops structure and agricultural structure which transferring self-stuffiness economy to commodity export- intensive agriculture. These activities play important role contributing to beat hunger and poverty, improve gradually the living standards of local people, especially ethnic people.
Besides, social culture activities will be implemented and combined with economic development and conservation activities in the core zone, buffer zone and transition zones. Biodiversity research projects, list of rare species, environmental education and sustainable development education will be deployed in 3 zones contributing to implement successfully sustainable development career of local.

Through appropriate zonation

The proposed biosphere reserve concludes 3 core zones along the south-north direction which are connected by corridors (buffer zone). Those are Up Mat National Park, Pu Huong Nature Reserve and Pu Hoat Nature Reserve. The core zones are under the management of the provincial people’s committee and follow by regulation issued by Government. The zoning based on available administrative border will help the conservation effectively.
The core zone 1 covers an area of  91,113 ha including the total area of  Pu Mat National Park which is divided between 16 administrative communes belong to 3 districts: Anh Son district (5 communes:  Phuc Son, Hoi Son, Tuong Son, Cam Son, Dinh Son), Con Cuong district (7 communes: Mon Son, Luc Gia, Yen Khe, Bong Khe, Chau Khe, Chi Khe, Lang Khe), Tuong Duong district (4 communes: Tam Quang, Tam Dinh, Tam Hop, Tam Thai)
The core zone 2 covers an area of 43,972 ha including the total area of Pu Huong Nature Reserve belong to 15 communes of 5 districts: Que Phong districts (3 communes: Cam Muon, Quang Phong), Quy Chau district (2 communes: Chau Hoan, Dien Lam), Quy Hop district (3 communes: Chau Thanh, Chau Cuong, Chau Thai), Con Cuong district (Binh Chuan) and Tuong Duong district (4 communes: Nga My, Yen Hoa, Yen Tinh, Huu Khuong). There are 4 communes of Con Cuong district which not belong to the land in Nature Reserve but contiguous to the buffer zones of Pu Huong and Pu Mat. Communes belong the buffer zone connecting Pu Mat with Pu Huong are Cam Lam, Don Phuc, Thach Ngan and Mau Duc communes.
The core zone 3 covers an area of 56,837 ha including the total area of Pu Hoat Nature Reserve belong to 6 communes of Que Phong district: Thong Thu, Dong Van, Tien Phong, Hanh Dich, Nam Giai, and Tri Le. Strictly protected sub-region covers nearly the total area and extent to the border with Laos 45 km and border with Thanh Hoa 25km. In order to manage effectively, specific task should be assigned to guard station and mobile forces and strictly protected sub-region is divided as 3 areas:
– Strictly protected sub-region I: covering 20,774 ha, situated in the south of Thuong Xuan district, Thanh Hoa province to Chu river. This sub-region control and monitor the conservation activities from Thong Thu, Dong Van to Chu estuary enter to Thanh Hoa.
–  Strictly protected sub-region II: covering 11,106 ha, from Chu river to Pu Pha Nha, Pu Cao Ma (1700m). This sub-region control and monitor the conservation activities in way route of Muong Phiet – Loc village to Phu Huong and from Laos’s side to Muong Phiet.
– Strictly protected sub-region III: cover an area of 24,957 ha. This sub-region control and monitor the conservation activities from Pu Pa Nha to the end of the south of nature reserve, Pu Hoat mountain.
The above sub-region plays an important role in education, research and conservation of rare gene. It is presently being used for education from university level and post graduate to learn about tropical forest, scientists from institutes conduct research programme. Besides, the sub-region also contributes to build breeding conservation area for rare species. At the same time, tourists are allowed to visit the peaks of Pu Hoat, Pu Pha Nha in specific designed way route in order to assure safety for animal living in other region.
In addition, there are ecological recovery sub-regions which covering small area and situate in villages closing border of outside the nature reserve. It is zoned by 3 sub-regions:
– Ecological recovery sub-region I: covering 3,625 ha, around Phiet village, Thong Thu commune. It plays a role in connecting the northern forest with the southern nature reserve, mainly by protective method and utilizing land and forest resources sustainable which support for production in Phiet village.
– Ecological recovery sub-region II: covering 5,572 ha, located in Muong Dan villages (Hanh Dich), Phuc village (Nam Giai), located near estuary and boundary, fat land, rehabilitative and strictly protection will recover the forest soon.
– Ecological recovery sub-region III: covering 1,900 ha, located in Tri Le commune, bordering with the southern nature reserve. Recovering the green of forest by rehabilitation and a part land for cinnamon tree growing (the local specialty). Utilizing land and forest resources sustainable will ensure food safety for local people in Sai and Tri Le villages, limiting deforestation.
The entire three recovery sub-region will recover forest by rehabilitation. After 5-8 years, the forest will be recovered. About 200-300 ha used for re-growing rare plants such as Fokienia hodginsii, Cunninghamia konishii, Calocedrus macrolepsis in order to learn from experience. Growing some Cinnamon (Cinnamomum tamala) area for extra income of 3 villages within the nature reserve. Income from cinnamon product will be more effective than rice cultivation in the mountain.
“(b) a buffer zone or zones clearly identified and surrounding or contiguous to the core area or areas, where only activities compatible with the conservation objectives can take place…”
(Describe briefly the buffer zones(s), their legal status, their size, and the activities, which are ongoing and planned there).
Most of National park’s official paid attention that National park should join in developing buffer zone because stable life of buffer zone’s people is a solution to protect forest by decreasing pressure on forest. To do well the national park’s officer should train skills of agricultural expansion, forest expansion, agronomy, forestry; build and campaign to peruse compatriot developing argro-forest model, and cooperative skill. Some services including all authorities level; fields; scientific study organizations, border police and police; Agriculture and Countryside Development Department and Service; operative, communities, mobilize and educative department which need to be done cooperated with the national park.
The buffer zone covers 503,270 ha. To sure cooperating process effectively, the National Park staffs should combine with local authorities to have long relation and best interest for both sides. Toward the National Park, to sure the cooperation with people, the National Park should promote tight combination between all authorities level; invest building and developing and legalizing rules; grow propaganda, education by appointing staff to collaborate, help people to develop economy and solve difficulties, punish mistake strictly.
Most of the National Park staffs  combine work with community frequently including monthly(35%), weekly (23%), daily (42%). 96% staffs affirmed that they like doing combining with people. 100% affirmed that working with people is a part of their responsibility in work.
Law enforcement agency is governed by the National Park director broad and deal with legal violations under the law of mana- protects forest. This agency is responsible on direction from agency and branch leader but it is remain not enough personnel. To do well this agency apply some methods as solving  administrative mistakes, investigating  situations related protect laws and patrolling  to  protect forest.
“(c) An outer transition area where sustainable resource management practices are promoted and developed”
(The Seville Strategy gave increased emphasis to the transition area since this is the area where the key issues on environment and development of a given region are to be addressed. The transition area is by definition not delimited in space, but rather is changing in size according to the problems that arise over time. Describe briefly the transition area as envisaged at the time of nomination, the types of questions to be addressed there in the near and the longer terms. The size should be given only as an indication).
The transition zone covers 608,093 ha. Law enforcement always gets priorities in high power to solve happened situations flexibility. This is really high educated action to help solving any mistake and investigating staffs and patrolling to prevent illegal using forest products. 89 % the National Park affirm that law enforcement agency often patrols 1-3 times in a month. At the level patrolling, 84% thinks it is not enough. Management legal document, administrative punishment, investigation and verification violation.
Regard to illegal trading desolate animal, there are some legal document about it as forest preserve and development law, 18th council of ministers’ decision, 77th Gov. Edict, CITES convention. Some documents related to combination management include the forest preserve and development law, rule and regulation, 245th TTg, 56/1999 circular. Similarity, 36% staffs don’t know about these.

Organizational arrangements should be provided for the involvement and participation of a suitable range of inter alia public authorities, local communities and private interests in the design and the carrying out of the functions of a biosphere reserve

Organizational structure of the proposed biosphere reserve will be established based on two available systems in organizational structure of local. It’s the organization system under department to 3 protected areas as well as the core zones of proposed biosphere reserve. This system is established base on directed documents issued by Government, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. According to framework of organization, there is a Management Board which manages all activities in the Conservation Reserve (National Park or Nature Reserve), Forestry Guard, Information Center, and Environmental Education Center… The Forestry Guard of the Nature Reserve is under the management of Provincial Forest Protection Department and Forest Protection Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. However, human resources of these organizations are under the control of the Provincial People’s Committee.
In parallel with the management organization system under department (Agricultural and Rural Development) is the management system under administrative border. The buffer zones and the transition zones of the proposed biosphere reserve are divided between 10 administrative mountainous districts (Con Cuong, Anh Son, Tuong Duong, Que Phong, Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Ky Son, Anh Son, Thanh Chuong and Tan Ky). So that, the economic development activities, education, cultural tradition preservation is under the management of local administration. Headed by the Provincial People’s Committee in this administrative system, each provincial policy is carried out at district level to commune level and village level at last.
All activities in the proposed biosphere reserve will be coordinated by the Provincial People’s Committee with the participant of local departments such as Department of Science and Technology,  Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Department of Agriculture and Rural, and Management Board of Pu Huong Nature Reserve, Management Board of Pu Hoat Nature Reserve, Administrative organizations: People’s Committee of 10 districts and mass organizations: the Peasants’ Association, the Women’s Union, the Youth Union Branch, the Veterans’ Association, productive team.. Besides, research center, conservation, scientists from other provinces and around the world and local community participate in nomination form preparation, field research for proposing biosphere reserve.

“(a) Mechanisms to manage human use and activities in the buffer zone or zones”? People Committees of Con Cuong, Anh Son, Tuong Duong, Que Phong, Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Ky Son, Thanh Chuong and Tan Ky districts are under the management of Nghe An People’s Committee manage all activities of economic sectors, social culture following national administrative mechanism and regulate them through public organizations, association.. The Districts People’s Committee manage all activities in the buffer zones including human use. The coordination mechanism of departments from the central level to district, commune level will be nationally considered in cooperation with the Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development at the provincial level, Management Board of Pu Mat National Park, Pu Huong Nature Reserve, Pu Hoat Nature Reserve in consultation with the MAB National Committee in research field, conduct the project of conservation and development of the buffer zone of local. “(b) A management plan or policy for the area as a biosphere reserve”? Management plans of the proposed biosphere reserve have already been approved by the Provincial People’s Committee in cooperation with Management Boards of Nature Reserve. A board which direct the building BR nomination form has been established. Headed by Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee and representatives of Department of Science and Technology, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Department of Agriculture and Rural, Department of Culture and Information and Management Boards of 3 Nature Reserves as members. Management plans have been drafted base on the direction of MAB National Committee. “(c) A designated authority or mechanism to implement this policy or plan”? The Provincial People’s Committee will guide directly the establishment of Management Board of the proposed biosphere reserve and coordination mechanism of conservation activities going along with social culture and economic development on the basis of management plans which have been approved. Members of Management Board including the representatives of departments, branches, management boards of nature reserves are appointed by the Provincial People’s Committee on the plurality assignment mechanism of Government in administrative reform. The Provincial People’s Committee will issue the official document which instruct for responsibility and regulations concerning rewards and punishments of plurality work. (d) Programmes for research, monitoring, education and training”? (Describe briefly research/activities monitoring (on going or planned) as well education and training activities) Programmes for biodiversity monitoring, survey, investigation and research as well environmental education have been implementing. Research priorities have been identified as: – Biodiversity survey activities – Environmental education for community – Cultural value conservation activities – Research into eco-tourism. – Planning out the communicative activities about: environmental research and sustainable development for managers as well as local inhabitant in and around Biosphere Reserve.

The whole proposed biosphere reserve:
Longitude: 103.874345 – 105.500152; Latitude: 18.579179 – 19.727594
Table 7: The co-ordinate of function area of the proposed biosphere reserve

 

Biosphere Reserve donation	Co-ordinate
	Longitude (°E)	Latitude (°N)
Core zone 1	104.3980324 – 104.9811363	18.77388419 – 19.12624170
Core zone 2	104.6444596 – 105.0049483	19.28702435 – 19.48854688
Core zone 3	104.7607166 – 105.1884970	19.70162420 – 19.99657378
Buffer zone	104.0737072 – 105.2033806	18.70127935 – 19.77505748
Transition zone	103.874345 – 105.500152	18.579179 – 19.727594

 

7.1 Area of the core zone:
Area of core zone terrestrial: 191,922 ha;
Area of core zone under water (if any): 0 ha.
7.2 Area of the buffer zone:
Area of buffer zone terrestrial: 503,270 ha;
Area of buffer zone under water (if any): 0 ha.
7.3 Area of transition zone:
Area of transition zone terrestrial: 608,093 ha;
Area of transition zone under water (if any): 0 ha.
7.4 Brief description of zonation (in terms of different functions of biosphere reserve) on zoning map:
– Core zone: restricted area of all hunting activities, economic development and all human impacts.
– Buffer zone: allow several controlled activities such as reforestation, agro-forestry-fishery development only which have limited impacts on the biosphere reserve, ecotourism models, water quality research, aquaculture, and other socio-cultural activities.
– Transition zone: is for sustainable economic development to mitigate pressure on the biosphere reserve. Pilot economic models are priority here.

Table 8: Area, population and management of the proposed biosphere reserve

Function Zoning	Area (ha)	Population (people)	Organization and management mechanism
			Conservation system	Administrative border of districts
Core zone 1	91,113	1,100	Pu Mat National Park	Con Cuong, Tuong Duong
Core zone 2	43,972	0	Pu Huong Nature Conservation Reserve	Con Cuong, Tuong Duong, Que Phong, Quy Chau, Quy Hop
Core zone 3	56,837	0	Pu Hoat Nature Conservation Reserve	Que Phong, Ky Chau
Core zones total	191,922	0
Buffer zone	503,270	200,926	Pu Mat National Park	Con Cuong, Tuong Duong, Que Phong, Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Ky Son, Anh Son, Thanh Chuong
Transition zone	608,093	272,896		Con Cuong, Tuong Duong, Que Phong, Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Ky Son, Anh Son, Thanh Chuong, Tan Ky
Total	1,303,285	473,822

 

Table 9: Management mechanism of district level

Function Zoning	District	Area
Core zone 1	Con Cuong	24,130
	Tung Duong	64,855
	Anh Son	2,128
	Total	91,113
Core zone 2	Con Cuong	3,722
	Tuong Duong	20,479
	Que Phong	6,718
	Quy Chau	12,200
	Quy Hop	853
	Total	43,972
Core zone 3	Que Phong	53,313
	Quy Chau	3,524
	Total	56,837
Total area of  core zones		191,922
Buffer zone	Con Cuong	86,280
	Tuong Duong	160,100
	Que Phong	68,550
	Quy Châu	44,560
	Quy Hop	28,910
	Ky Son	53,660
	Anh Son	26,810
	Thanh Chuong	34,400
	Total area of buffer zones	503,270
Transition zone	Con Cuong	66,893
	Tuong Duong	60,430
	Que Phong	31,050
	Quy Châu	46,380
	Quy Hop	64,750
	Ky Son	156,100
	Anh Son	30,870
	Thanh Chuong	78,710
	Tan Ky	72,910
	Total area of transition zones	608,093
Total		1,303,285

The primary tropical rainforest ecology

The primary tropical rain forest ecology in the Proposed Biosphere Reserve is mostly distributed in the core zone of the Biosphere Reserve: Pu Mat National Park, Pu Huong Nature Reserve and Pu Hoat Nature Reserve. This primary forest is classified as follows:
Pu Mat National Park
The low mountain monsoonal evergreen closed forest: Located at 800m and over, with advantageous species making up floristic structure such as: Fagaceae, Myrtaceae.
The large-leaved and needle-leaved mixed monsoonal evergreen closed forest: Reaching above 1,000 m in the North and above 900m in the South of the National Park. The important and valuable and rare species of Pinophyta found here are Fokienia hodginsii, Cunninghamia honishii, Dacrydium elatum, Dacrycarpus imbricatus, Nageia fleuryi, and Podocarpus neriifolius…. Most of these species were written in Viet Nam Red Book
The dwarf forest: Located at above 1,500 m, found on slopes and mountain top, there are emergent rocks and hard wind, unlike many places where dwarf forest often appears, for example dwarf forest is found on lower belt, at 600 m and 1,100 m in Cuc Phuong National Park and Tam Dao, respectively. As a result, this is a very special cover of high belt in Pu Mat National Park
Pu Huong Nature Reserve
The tropical evergreen forest: (Refer to survey lines Khe Kho Khe-Lan Bo Cho, Lan Bo Cho-Dong Pu Huong, Khe Muc Pan-Khe Khoang, and Muc Pan-Dong Pu Lon). The composition of higher layer is primarily Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, Micheha mediocris, Amesiodendron chinensis, Shorea chinensis, Castanopsis sp, Syzygium sp.… At below-canopy stratum, species that are commonly seen include Lystea bavesnis, Actinolaphne chinesis, Elaeocapus stipularis, Knema confera, Quercus glauca, Castanopsis ferox, Ormoria balansea, Protium Seratum, Dendrocalamus pastellaris, Platyacanthus, and Carya tonkinensis. It should be noted also that a stream-side tropical forest on Muc Pan-Dong Pu Lon line has wood trees with diameter reaching 150 cm. This area has been almost free from timber exploitation.
The subtropical evergreen closed forest, which appeared in survey lines Dong Pu Huong, Muc Pan-Dong Pu Lon. The key plants are Fokienia hodginsii with diameter amounting to 100-200 m, Cunninghamia konishii and Quecus blakei. Besides, there are also species of Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, and Vatica diospiroides… The decayed plant layer is quite thick, sometimes mixed with Dendrocalamus pastellaris, and Lioma ovaolifolia.
The dwarf forest: This is found in the survey lines are Lan Bo Cho – Dong Pu Huong, Muc Pan-Dong Pu Lon. This type of forest is often seen at Pu Huong triangular tip, which has narrow area, stunted tree-trunks fed upon by moss and orchid. There are typical plants such as Rhododendron arboreum, Clethra sp, Lioma ovaolifolia, and Enkianthus sp.… The forest layer is only less than 5 m tall, with diameter of wood log does not reach above 30 cm. The trees are hardwood with small leaves. The humus layer of this kind of forest still has not spitted and is always covered by humid and cold.
The Pu Hoat Nature Reserve
a. The alpine large-leaved and needle-leaved mixed monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest: The area is 2,682 ha, seated at high belt above 1600 m of mountain blocks of Pu Hoat, Pu Pha Long, Pu Pha Nha, Pu Cao Ma and a small part in northern frontier bordering Thuong Xuan district in Thanh Hoa province. The forest trees grow on crude humus ferralitic soil, on original rock of riolite mixed with granite. The average temperature in a year is below 20˚C and the average temperature of the coldest month is 10-13˚C. Annual average rainfall is above 2,000 mm, number of dry months is 1-2 months, and number of rainy days is 100-150 days. Average humidity is 82-86%.
This part of forest has been little affected, with chief plants being broad-leaved trees and conifers. There are some tall trees but which density and biomass do not exceed 30%. The layer of small woody and secondary plant see species of Araliaceae such as Schefflera, Trevesia, Dendropanax, Euphorbiaceae with the members Euonymus; Rubiaceae with the members Randia, Canthium.
The dominant layer supports with two valuable needle-leaved species of Fokienia hodginsii and Conninghamia konishii. These trees have mean diameter reaching 50 – 80 cm and are 45 – 50m tall, which emerges clearly. Cunninghamia konishii trees have big trunk but not chunky broad while many trees have diameter reaching above 2 m, which creates a quaintly attractive landscape of alpine subtropical forest. Biomass of the forest of this type amounts 160 – 200 m3/ha and, the mean height reaches 16 – 20 m.
Elfin forest located above 2,300 m of Pu Hoat tip supporting area of 200 ha, which is frequently cloud-covered. There is high humidity and strong wind. The lower trees are stricken thick by moss. The humus layer that has not been decayed yet thickens 25-30 cm. Tree height varies depending on slope and space. Wood tree species are composed of Rhododendron bracteatum, Lyonia ovalifolia, Gaultheria yunnanensis, Carya tonkinensis, Quercus, Anesla, Elaeocarpus, Quercus bambusaefolia and madlar-tree species of Orchidaceae (Dendrobium, Eria, Coelogine, Thecopus, Oberonia) with about over 40 species; Rubiaceae are represented by 2 species both  exhibited parasitic and symbiotic lifestyle. Myrmecodia armata make a living by sticking to branches and tree-trucks and lives symbotically with mushroom which are succulent and belly and potato-sized.
Located at even higher mountain top, there appears a belt of Lioma ovaolifoliai forest that tops 2,300 m and widens about 200 m, with Lioma ovaolifoliai trees having diameter reaching 1.3 – 1.7 m. The trees can be 2.5 – 3.5 m tall, rising scattered with density about 20,000 trees/ha above an un-spitted mulch layer. Lioma ovaolifoliai forest forms beautiful landscape of quite attractive mountain top before approaching Lingnania at the top.
This type of forest is home to many endemic and valuable and endangered species. The forest is almost undamaged, with human impact only limited to hunting practice (primarily by H’Mong in Sai family). From a scientific perspective, this is one of very few areas of the country that still retains a forest sample of mountain tip sector with many endemic species and especially existence of the old-growth needle-leaved species (seminude tree) such as Fokienia hodginsii, Calocedrus macrolepsis, Cunninghamia konishii. Although the number and biomass of these species of all the forest are not enormous, but these are trees have big stature regarding both height and diameter that no national plant species can be compared with.
If comparing with eight plants introduced in “Tropical rainforest” by P.W.Richarhs such as Sewuoia sempevriens, H = 102, D = 8; Eucalyptus regnans in Australia, H = 97; Gingko biloba in China with perimeter reaching 16 cm; and with Koompasia exelsa in Sarawark, Cunninghamia konishii in Pu Hoat can be ranked the eighth or ninth among the trees with biggest stature in the world. The populations of needle-leaved species of this kind in Pu Hoat is one of the very little examples on Earth that still exist, bringing about quaint scenery on high mountain tops always covered by cloud.
b. The large-leaved monsoonal  tropical evergreen closed forest on medium mountain: This type of forest is distributed at 800-1,500 m, scattering mountain sides from sub-area boarding Thanh Hoa, Chu river to the sides of Pu Pha Nha, Pu Cao Ma, Pu Pha Lang and the East  of Pu Hoat mountain. Forest grows on yellow ferralitic soil; original stone are primary riolite and granite, with vigorous weathering. The soil layer is from thick to medium, eroded and covert point is 0.8
This forest type is basically primary; a few places are tilled for crop fields with small mass by mass. The advantaged plants are large-leaved and good growth while the needle-leaved trees are dominated by Nageia fleuryi that grow scattered on a few places of mountain side and very steep places. Large-leaved trees include typical composition: Fagaceae with quite many species, which holds advantageously in some representative ecologically niches such as Castanopsis seracantha, C. ferox, c. indica, Lithocarpus dussaudi, L. trachycarpa, Quercus fleuryi; Lauraceae has 30 species. Although Dipterocarpaceae has few species, in many forest parts at Thong Thu and Pu Pha Nha they occupies absolutely above 50% of ecological niche. Magnoliaceae has many big timber log species such as Michelia, Mangkietia, and Tsoongiodendion; Sapotaceae has many famous woodlogs as Madhuca pasquiera with diameter reaching above 60 – 80 cm, sometimes also appropriating about 3 – 5% of ecological niche.
In this forest type, the following families are present and play important roles: Meliaceae with species of Aglaia; Sapindaceae with species of Pometia, Mischocarpus; Ebenaceae with 6 – 7 species of Diospyros member. The average diameter reaches 24 – 28cm. However, in forest part that has been never disturbed, one can easily meet trees with diameter reaching above 45 cm. Trees with higher diameter are often species of Shorea chinensis, Madhuca pasquieri, Pometia, Commersonia bartramia, Manglietia fordiana, Aglaya gigantea, Chukaraisia tabularis. Average tree height is 20 m. Average biomass is 150 – 200 m3/ha, but at Pu Pha Nha, bordering Laos and at Pu Nhich, Thong Thu, there are rich forest parts with biomass getting 550 m3/ha. This forest type is very little affected, which provides habitat for valuable and rare animals such as. Elephas maximus, Bos gaurus, Cervidae, Urcidae, Muntiacus muntjak. The forest has four strata:
The emergent layer here is composed of Shorea chinensis, Commersonia bartramia, and Madhuca pasquieri. This layer also does not emerge out very clearly. The ecologically advantageous layer creates quite a uniform forest layer reaching 18 – 20 m high with a few large-leaved plant mentioned above: Vatica diospiroides, Madhuca pasquirei, Chukaraisia tabularis, Polyalthia laui, Aglaya gigantea, Diospyros, Markhamia sp., Syzygium sp., Manglietia fordiana, Cinamomum sp., Castanopsis sp, and L. Trachycarpa. About ¼ of the trees on this layer have chunky broad.
The understorey layer includes many species of Euphorbiaceae such as Microdesmis, Sumbaviopsis albicaus; Rubiaceae as Randia and popular species such as Knema confer, Lystea bavesnis, Schefflera, Acronychia, and Sterculia lanceolata. The grass and fern layer: in addition to Polypodiophyta there is also Alocasia macrorrhiza, Homalamena occulta, Dianella nemorosa, Carya tonkinensis, Platyacanthus, Licuala fatua, and Licuala fatua.
c. The large-leaved monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest on Low Mountain: Situated at below 800m, this type of forest grows on yellow-red ferralitic soil. The original stone is primary granite and stone blocks. The thin topsoil was vigorously eroded in most part of the area due to periods of being broken by slash and burn cultivation. Plant composition is diverse with many families and many representatives of the photophobic species of Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Meliaceae, Moraceae, Papilionoceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Ebenaceae, Lauraceae, Fagaceae, and Elaeocarpaceae. This type of forest consists of three layers that are described as follows:
– The ecologicalally advantageous layer forms forest canopy with typical species: Engelhrdtia, Garcinia, Endospermum, Peltophorum, Deutzianthus, Adenanthera, Ficus, Randia, Gironiera, Elaeocarpus, Litsea, and Beilschmiedia. From a natural resource management perspective, however, most of these forest sections are poor forest with biomass below 10 m3/ha.
– The undercover layer is composed of many species and varies according to elevation.  There are mainly Euphorbiaceae, Rutaceae, Tiliaceae, Caesalpiniaceae, and Rubiaceae.
– The grass and fern layer supports many species of Polypodiophyta, Protium Seratum, Licuala fatua and also Dendrocalamus pastellaris, Neohouzeaua, Alocasia macrorrhiza, Licuala fatua, Ardisia sylvestris, Ardisia, Psychotria and others.
In general, if compared to many forest areas in Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Nghia Dan districts, the soil layer of this type of forest has not been eroded such seriously. The forest has maintained good reproduction with many valuable plants. Reproductive trees account for 10,000 trees/ha where as number of more than 3-metre-tall trees are present at density of about 2,200 trees/ha. Although this forest type is affected by milpa activities and illegal exploitation, a few places remains intact and there are many big animals living there.
d. The auxiliary type of the large-leaved monsoonal evergreen closed forest on Limestone Mountain: This type of forest creates the coverage of large-leaved evergreen closed forest on low limestone mountain at under 800 m. This type of forest is found at Thong Thu commune by the Northern Chu River and in Pu Pha Nha and Pu Ca Tun with smaller and scattered area. Forest forms three major layers, the dominant layer forms homogeneous structures with typical species such as Pterospermum, Taxotrophis, Miliusa, Xylopia, Acronychia, Alphonsea, Garcinia, Microdesmis, Diospyros, Hydnocarpus, Aglaia perviridis, and Eugenia resinosa.
On the lower layer, there are few plants that can take the dominant layer trees in height, including Pometia, Dracontomelum dupereanum, Commersonia bartramia, Aglaia silvestris, Ficus, Amesiodendron chinensis, Dysoxylum sp, Excentrodendron tonkinensis, and Chukaraisia tabularis with diameter sometimes exceeding 70 – 100 cm and with height of 22 – 25 m. The bush and shrub layer support species of Ardisia, Psychotria, Eunymus, Rauvolfia verticillata, Licuala fatua, and Pinanga dupperreana.This type of forest in Pu Hoat has been free from damaging impacts and hence provides a good environment for the living of mammals of families: Viverridae, Pteromyidae, and Hystricidae.

The secondary subtropical rainforest

The secondary subtropical forest after exploitation is still abundant and much diversified, forest types described as following:
The auxiliary rocky mountain forest: This has been little disturbed and therefore remained almost intact. There are the popular plant species like Excentrodendron tonkinensis, Madhuca pasquieri, Syzygium sp., and Aglaia perviridis… The rocky mountain forest is the main distributing site and home to species of Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, and Naemorhedus sumatraensis. This forest sections are located along Khe Co-Khe Hin Dong line.
The bamboo forest: This is forest occurring after milpa and occupying a quite large area of the studied lines. Mixed with bamboo forest are also species of small woody stem plants and a few of other plants such as Ormoria balansea, Lystea bavesnis, Rhodomyrtus, and Melastomataceae. Bamboo forest is found along survey lines: Ban Khi-Khe Kho Khe, Ban Cuom-Khe Quan Viet, Ta Ngan and Huu Ngan-Khe Bo, which is distributed widely and scattered on every mountain side.
In Pu Hoat, bamboo forest scattered on altitude below 600 m and along streams and mountainous villages. Bamboo forest appeared after the land had been left fellow for a long time with species of Neohouzeaua (70%), Lingnania (20%), and Dendrocalamus pastellaris (10%).  Neohouzeaua plants are as high as 10 m, with mean diameter reaching 5 cm. There are 400 shrubs/ha and a reserve of 13,000 trees/ha. Lingnania is12 m tall on average and has mean diameter reaching 5 cm. There are 80 brushwoods/ha with reserves of nearly 26,000 trees/ha, which spread on the outer fringe of Neohouzeaua forest. Dendrocalamus pastellaris has average diameter reaching about 3 cm and height of 12 – 18 m, with many branches. Besides, some popular wood trees are found mixing with the bamboo trees such as  Endospermum, and Trema. Notably, in a few places there are valuable and highly reproductive species mixed with Bamboo forest such as: Chukaraisia tabularis, Sindora tonkinensis, and Amesiodendron chinensis. Reproducing wood trees is difficult since there are only fewer than 2000 trees/ha of which good wood trees only make up about 20%.
The preserved secondary forest> In Ban Khi-Khe Kho Khe survey line: This type of forest grow in great quantity at the height of 500 m near Khe Kho Khe of 500 m with overwhelming species being Parashorea chinensis, which have taken advantage of riverine soil. This forest type supports species of high layers such as Amesiodendron chinensis, Chukaraisia tabularis, Madhuca pasquirei, and Micheha mediocris. In Khe Kho Khe – Lan Bo Cho survey line: The plant composition of the higher layer is primarily Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, Micheha mediocris, and AmesiodendronChinensis. The under canopy layer hosts species of Lystea bavesnis, Actinolaphne chinesis, Elaeocapus stipularis, Knema conferta, Quercus glauca, Castanopsis ferox, and Ormoria balansea.
In army road survey line: This area is almost covered by secondary forest, which is exploited by inhabitants in Ban Khi and Binh Chuan commune. In Khe Co-Khe Hin Dong: Forest has been little affected and hence remains intact and it is difficult to reach there. There are popular plants like  Excentrodendron tonkinensis, Madhuca pasquieri, Syzygium sp., and Aglaia perviridis… This is main domicile of species of Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, Naemorhedus sumatraensis.
In Ta Ngan and Huu Ngan – Khe Bo survey line: The essential plant composition here are Actinolaphne chinesis, Micheha mediocris, Lystea bavesnis, Ormosia pinnata…In Ban Huoi Lac-Chan Pu Lon, the forest has been restored and has been little affected by wood exploitation activities. The animals that can be seen in this forest section are old snares from September to November of last year (season for hunting beasts). Plants that make up high canopy are mainly Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, Cinamomum sp., Amesiodendron chinensis, and Castanopsis ferox; where as major species at lower layers are Dendrocalamus pastellaris and Lioma ovaolifolia.

Flora along river and spring

Key plant composition at two sides of Khe Bo was Musa coccinea, Neohouzeaua, Platanus kerri, and Altingia excelsa. For example, these appeared in Khe Co-Khe Hin Dong, Ban Cuom-Khe Quan Viet survey lines, with 4-6 m deep river bed, high slope, strong flow, especially at riverhead of Khe Bo there are falls with 40 – 50 height.

Flora of milpa and post-milpa

The chief composition is humid rice, upland rice, maize, bean, cassava and other plants. After cropped, milpa has often been abandoned, then left restored from 1 to 2 years. The main plant inhabitants include the species of Ormosia pinnata, Lystea bavesnis, and Elaeocarpus sp. with diameter reaching 10 cm- 30 cm. This biological landscape extends from Khe Teo to the end of Khe Teo slope, which can be seen on road sides from Ban Khi to Ban Teo, along roads around Ban Cuom at survey lines: Ban Ta – Ban Huoi Lac and Ban Huoi Lac – Chan Pu Lon.
If we compare between milpa in Ban Ta with that in Ban Khi and Ban Cuom, the area of Ban Ta milpa is larger. Furthermore, the forests here were cleared for milpa, and then were left for shorter time, as a result, the trees here have less than 10 – 20 cm diameter and form low canopy at below 5 – 7 m. In contrast, on two trackside in Dong Hua, Ban Huoi Lac – Chan Pu Lon, there are more of higher and bigger plants since the land after milpa here were left fallow for quite long. The chief plants are  Actinodaphne chinensis with diameter reaching 20 – 40 cm, Cryptocarya metcalfiana, Neohouzeaua, Castanopsis ferox, Quercus glauca, and Gironiera.
In addition, there are also “flora cover following people”, a phrase that describes plants and animals that appeared unintentionally or willfully by people bringing from one place to others (maybe nationally or from abroad). These species can fast adapt to new environment and develop very strongly and pose great threats to local vegetation. These are invasive exotic organisms, including Mimosa diplotricha, Acacia, and Eucaluptus. Therefore, it is important to detect these invasive plants to have proper control measures.

Agriculture of humid rice and forestry farms

A small part of area is used for planting humid rice crops, which is usually seated near water sources, rivers and streams. This kind of cultivation has been practiced mainly by Kinh and Thai indigenous people as part of the settlement effort. The key crops are humid rice, maize, peanut, bean, potato, cassava and other plants. The use of chemical fertilizer and insecticides has been very limited. However, productivity of the farms is often very low because of farming habits and the lack of suitable crop varieties and market access.
Some small farm owners have started cultivating crops following model of forestry farms with commercially and economically valuable fruit-bearing trees such as breadfruit, bananas, mango, papaya… However, because of small land area and low productivity, value of goods that reach the outside market is very limited.

The proposed western Nghe An Biosphere Reserve has 3 main core zones, namely Pu Mat National Park, Pu Huong Nature Reserve, Pu Hoat Nature Reserve. Therefore, histories of these lands are different.
Land and forest of the core zones within the proposed biosphere reserve (Pu Mat National Park, Pu Huong Nature Reserve, Pu Hoat Nature Reserve) are owned by State. The Management Board of National Park and Nature Reserve directly manage under the guidance of Nghe An People’s Committee. In the buffer and transition zones of the proposed biosphere reserve, land is owned by community under the management of state farm and some are owned by individual and household including house, fields and gardens, farm. They are given right to use by State or fixed-term contract according to regulation of land and forest allocation.
9.1 Pu Mat National Park.
The Pu Mat Nature Reserve was gazetted in 1995 by combining two previous protected areas; Anh Son and Thanh Chuong. It’s divided into a core zone, which covers 91,200 ha, and a buffer zone extending the protected area about a further 86,000 ha. It’s situated on the eastern flanks of the Annamite (Truong Son) mountain range. The topography is strongly fragmented by many ridges making the altitude of the area varied from 200m to 1841m. The highest peak in the park is that of Pu Mat Mountain.
Decision 174 QD/TTg of 8 Nov 2001, officially declared Pu Mat a national park. The area is intended to conserve the biodiversity of the most important tropical and sub-tropical forest ecosystem in the northern Annamites. The core zone of the park covers 91,113 ha. Within its territory, 95% of the area is covered by forest vegetation.
9.2 Pu Huong Nature Reserve.
Pu Huong Nature Reserve, with an area of 5,000 ha, is located in the centre of Nghe An province. It is divided between twelve administrative communes belong to 5 districts: Cam Muon, Quang Phong communes (Que Phong district), Chau Thanh, Chau Cuong, Chau Thai communes (Quy Hop district), Chau Hoan, Dien Lam communes (Quy Chau district), Binh Chuan (Con Cuong district), and Nga My, Yen Hoa, Yen Tinh, Huu Khuong communes (Tuong Duong district). It was identified an important area for biodiversity conservation in the early 1990s and original surveys for the development of a Feasibility Study for its gazettement as a Nature Reserve were conducted by Forest Inventory and Planning Institute (FIPI) in 1994-1995. The result of the FIPI surveys was included in the 2002. Feasibility Study and Investment Plan produced as a requirement for a gazettement as a Nature Reserve (Nghe An Forest Protection Development and Nghe An People’s Committee 2002). Decision No.194/CT of 9 August 1986, officially declared Pu Huong a nature reserve. The Nature Reserve is under the management of the Nghe An People’s Committee and the Nghe An Forest Inspection Branch.
9.3 Pu Hoat Nature Reserve
Pu Hoat area is not in the list of Vietnam special-use forests system under the Decision No.194/CT dated 9 August 1986 issued by the Chairman of the Minister’s Council (Prime Minister). This area include special-use forest, protective forest in the northern of Chu river and 3 sub-area of productive forest which are written in the general economic development map of Nigh An province in 1996.
Three core zone of the proposed biosphere reserve are mentioned in “Development Strategy of Forestry Department” of Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Development. The Government approved the strategy, in which proposing to widen the area of special-use forests from 1 million ha to 2 million ha in the period 1996-2000.

Population of the Biosphere Reserve

Permanent/seasonal: 473,822 people
10.1 Core zone: 0 people
– Core zone of Pu Mat: 1,100
– Core zone of Pu Huong: 0
– Core zone of Pu Hoat: 0
10.2 Buffer zone:  200 926 people
– Buffer zone of Pu Mat: 93,335 people
– Buffer zone of Pu Huong: 49,699 people
– Buffer zone of Pu Hoat: 57,892 people
10.3 Transition zone:  272.896 people
10.4 Summarized presentation on local community in and near the proposed biosphere reserve:
Most of population in the proposed biosphere reserve is Thai ethnic group (68.89%) and a small number of O Du ethnic groups (0.6%). Living in 3 districts in Pu Mat National Park region belongs to 3 main ethnic groups: Thai, Kho Mu, Kinh and other ethnic groups such as: Tay, H’ Mong, O Du. The whole population in 16 communes belong to Pu Mat National Park contains 16 954 households with a population of 93 335 people. Most of inhabitants are distributed in 7 communes in Con Cuong district (a population of 39 419 in 7 167 households) and 5 communes in Anh Son district (a population of 38 163 in 6 938 households). The rest belong to 4 communes in Tuong Duong district (a population of 15 753 in 2 849 households), each household has 4 – 5 peoples on average. The number of people who have 3 or 4 children is still widespread, which put pressure on population growth problem in coming years.

Name of ethnic group	Number of household	Number of people	%
Thai	11 338	62 435	66.89
Kho Mu	1984	13 765	14.75
Kinh	2531	10.498	11.25
H’Mong	599	3 714	3.98
Dan Lai	265	1 494	1.60
Poong	132	813	0.87
O Du	96	563	0.60
Other ethnic group	9	53	0.06
Total	16 954	93 335	100.00

The distribution of population between communes in the region is not equal. Some communes have population densities are very low, such as Tam Hop commune, Tuong Duong district (7 persons per square kilometer), Chau Khe commune, Con Cuong district (13 persons per square kilometer). Besides, some communes of Anh Son district which have population densities are high, are Dinh Son commune (495 persons per square kilometer), Cam Son commune (421 persons per square kilometer). The local people are mainly engaged in subsistence or semi-subsistence agriculture and are extremely poor. Any income is normally used for supplementing food supplies and any capital gained is used to increase their domestic animal stock. Extra income can be achieved from logging, collection of bamboo, rattan or other plant products, hunting or collection of wild animals. A small amount of gold mining also occurs. Population growth averages 2.6% annually, while food product in recent years has remained stable.

Pu Huong Nature Reserve is divided between twelve administrative communes belong to 5 districts: Cam Muon, Quang Phong communes (Que Phong district), Chau Thanh, Chau Cuong, Chau Thai communes (Quy Hop district), Chau Hoan, Dien Lam communes (Quy Chau district), Binh Chuan (Con Cuong district), and Nga My, Yen Hoa, Yen Tinh, Huu Khuong communes (Tuong Duong district), contiguous to the boundary of Nature Reserve with an area of 110,883 ha. There are 4 ethnic groups living in the buffer zone of Pu Huong Nature Reserve which are Kinh, Thai, Kho Mu and H’Mong, contains 8,535 households with a population of 49,699 people. They live near the boundary of Nature Reserve.

The whole communes in the buffer zone of Nature Reserve are remote communes which are very poor in the 135 program. Inhabitants mainly work in agriculture sector, producing food in small scale, cattle grazing and logging. Economic activities are based on natural resource. Advanced technology in agriculture has not been received adequate attention. Agricultural product prices are unstable. Consequently, local people’s income is generally low. Labor capacity is relatively poor; productivity is therefore not high. There are number of jobless people during leisure after harvest time.

Infrastructure like traffic system, schools, hospitals in the buffer zone have not fully supported the local community. Most of these are not electrically installed causing difficulties in economic development and cultural exchange.
10.5 Names of main town(s) and townlet(s):
–        Con Cuong townlet
–        Tuong Duong townlet
–        Quy Hop townlet

Cultural significance

Human culture – culture specific characteristics of the entire region belong to Thai ethnic group. Besides, the special native culture belong to the original point value of O Du ethnic group. This is a clan which had brilliant culture in the confluence of Nam Non – Nam Mo – Ca river from 11th century and earlier. According to the statistic data of Nghe An province (30 December 2003), show that O Du ethnic group has the population of 528 people. They live in  poor condition.
Culture character of mountain village in the proposed biosphere reserve such as Muong Phiet, Muong Dan, Ban Loc bring cultural value quite abundant by the manner of expressing sentiment, dress, clothing in festivals and weekdays. Thai ethnic group still conserve their manners and customs and preserve the national character. House on stilts which have timber-roofed can acttract tourist such as Mai Chau, Hoa Binh province. Along the way to Pu Hoat, there are tens of spectacular water reels. Compatriot still cultivate cotton and weave brocade. When visitors come to visit, they are invited to drink ’ruou can’(wine drunk out of a jar through pipes).
Ethnic Dan Lai compatriot lives in 3 mountain village which are situated in the upper reaches of Khe Khang, Giang river. It’s 60km far from Con Cuong district. The material and spiritual life of the local people is poor. Social-economic has not been developed. Intellectual standards of local people are low. They depend on forest. This activity includes forest clearance for cultivation and illegal timber extraction, wild animal hunting. Infrastructure like traffic system, schools, hospitals have not fully supported the local community. In order to raise the living standard, ensure the existence and development of Dan Lai ethnic group as well as protect natural resource of Pu Mat National Park, resettlement the Dan Lai ethnic group is very necessary.
Thai ethnic group live in the field-valley of tropical monsoon highland in the west and northwest of North Vietnam. The typical features if this zone includes warmth, humidity. Compatriots mainly cultivate rice. Beside, each household has economic activities such as cattle grazing, fowls rising, secondary jobs: woodwork, weave fabric, fishing, hunting.
Climate has 2 distinctive seasons. The dry season lasts from November to the next May (from April to October – Thai calendar, the rainy season from the end of May to the end of October (from October to March – Thai calendar).

Table 11: The cultural geography factor of Ca river valley belong to the proposed BR

 

Along Hieu river enter to Ca river	Thai ethnic group culture in Kim Son, Que Phong Festival, culture of Kho Mu, H’ Mong  and Kinh ethnic groups
Along Nam Non river to Nam Mo river junction enter to the upper of Ca river	Daily activities of O Du ethnic group Vestiges of O Du ancient culture Exchanges Festival on the river, catch fish Ban Ve Hydroelectric Plant
Along Ca river from Cua Rao down Ky Son, Tuong Duong, Con Cuong, Anh Son regions	Interfere and combined culture value of ethnic groups: Thai, Kinh, Kho Mu Cultivation mode of ethnic groups Space distribution of townlet, district, village
Khe Thoi, Khe Choang, Nam Non upriver, conquer the peak of Pu Hoat, Pu Huong, Pu Mat mountains	Residence in the ancient time of Kho Mu, O Du, Dan Lai ethnic groups To learn about the native knowledge system

Terrain

11.1.1 The maximum altitude above the sea: 1,800m
11.1.2 The minimum altitude above the sea: 57.8m
11.1.3 Coastal/ marine area, the maximum altitude below the average sea level:

Climate

The Proposed Biosphere Reserve is located in the tropical and temperate zone. It is profoundly influenced by a North-East and South-West monsoon. Because topography of Annamite range influences circulation of atmosphere, there are big climatic differences in the area. The data about climate recorded in many years by Tuong Duong, Con Cuong, Do Luong districts and Vinh City weather stations are summarized in following table:

Table 12: Characteristics of local climate as surveyed at four weather stations of Nghe An province

The climate parameters	Weather station
	Tuong Duong	Con Cuong	Do Luong	Vinh
Co-ordinate of station: Latitude                                      Longitude	19o17’ 104o26’	19o03’ 105o53’	18o54’ 105o18’	18o40’ 105o40’
Number of recordings per year	40	40	40	86
Average annual temperature (oC)	23o6	23o5	23o7	23o9
Absolute maximum air temperature	42.7oC/5	42oC/4	41.1oC/5	42.1oC/6
Absolute minimum air temperature	1.7oC/1	2.0o/1	5oC/1	4oC/1
Total annual rainfall (mm)	1268.3	1791.1	1706.6	1944.3
Number of rainy days/year (day)	133	153	138	138
The maximum rainfall per day (mm)	192/8	449.5/9	788/9	484/9
Annual evaporation (mm)	867.1	812.9	789.0	954.4
Number of foggy days (day)	20	16	26	27
Average annual humidity (%)	81	86	86	85
Average minimum humidity (%)	59	64	66	68
Absolute maximum humidity (%)	9/I	14/III	21/XI	15/X
Height(m)	97	27	6	6

 

11.3 If a meteorological station is in or near the proposed Biosphere Reserve, indicate the year since when climatic data have been recorded:
The meteorological data are summarized from records of the following weather stations: Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Tay Hieu, Que Phong, Tuong Duong, and Con Cuong

Table 13: Climatic characteristics of the proposed Biosphere Reserve

Climate parameters	Quy Chau	Quy Hop	Tay Hieu	Tuong Duong	Con Cuong
Average annual temperature (oC)	23.1	23.3	23.0	23.6	23.5
Absolute maximum air temperature (0c)	41.3	40.8	41.6	42.7	42.0
Average temperature of ground (0c)	26.4	26.7	26.7	27	26.4
Average annual rainfall (mm)	1734.5	1640.9	1591.7	1268.3	1791.0
Maximum rainfall per day (mm)	290	208	279	192	449
Average number of rainy days/year (day)	150	142	137	133	139
Average number of foggy days in a year (day)	19.6	17.9	25	5.6	22
Average annual evaporation (mm)	703.9	945.4	835.2	867.1	812.9
Average annual humidity (%)	86	84	81	64	81
Average minimum annual humidity (%)	65	60	63	59	64

 

11.2.1 Average temperature in hottest month (April): 42.7

11.2.2 Average temperature in coldest month (January):  5.6

11.2.3 Annual precipitation: 850 mm

11.2.4 If meteorology and hydrology station is in or near the proposed biosphere reserve, indicate the year when date is recorded:

1. a) by hand: ______x___________
2. b) Automatically: _____________

Name and location of the station: Con Cuong

Pedological characteristics

There are 4 principal soil groups in the study area:
–          Yellow red feralite on hills (<200m).
–          Yellow red feralite on low mountains (200-1000m).
–          Yellow humus on average mountains (1000-2000m).
–          Humus on high mountains ( > 2000m)
Based on the soil properties, it could be divided into the following soils:
–          Yellow red soil on shale: This soil occupies in large area in the districts of Tương Dương, con Cuông, Tân Kỳ, Anh Sơn, Thanh Chương, Nghĩa Đàn, Quỳ Hợp.
–          Yellowish soil on sandstone and conglomerate: It is dispersedly distributed in many districts: Thanh Chương, Anh Sơn, Tân Kỳ, Tương Dương, Kỳ Sơn
–          Red yellow soil on acid rocks: This soil is dispersedly found in Con Cuông, Tương Dương, Quỳ Châu
–          Brown red soil in limestone: This is scattered in the districts: Tân Kỳ, Nam Đàn, Quỳ Hợp,
–          Yellow red feralite soil on mountains, humus soil on high mountains; Feralite soil on hills; Feralite soil on low mountains with relatively high density of vegetation; Feralite soil on high mountains; Humus soil on high mountains
–          Alluvial soil: This soil is situated along the river Cả, sông Giăng, sông Con. This is fertile soil due to the alluvial supplement by annual inundation. This is the important soil in agriculture for planting the cereal crops and short term industrial crops.

Geological Characteristics

–          Proterozoic group: Neoproterozoic – Lower Cambrian; Bu Khang Formation (PR3 – €1 Bk): This formation is found in the north of the study area. It consists of: biotite-quartz shale, mica shale and quartzite with the thickness of 1000m. –          Paleozoic group: Paleozoic sedimentary rocks cover 90% of the study area, mainly terrigenous with carbonate sediments and few acid effusives. They are divided into 4 stratigraphical units. –          Upper Ordovician – Lower Silurian; Ca River Formation (O3-S1 sc): This formation includes sericite – quartz shale intercalating with quartzite, fine grained light grey sandstone, thinly bedded black limestone intercalating with green grey calcareous shale.  The formation has 1500 – 2000m thickness. –          Upper Silurian – Lower Devonian; Huoi Nhi Formation (S2-D1 hn): This formation characterized by fine to medium grained, thinly bedded sandstone, greenish grey sericite shale, dark shale intercalated with some thin beds of siltstone. The total thickness is estimated about 660-700m. –          Devonian; Lower-Middle Devonian; Nam Tam Formation ( D1-2 nt): This formation is situated in Kỳ Anh district  (Huổi Pa and Xa Mát area), composed of shale and siltstone with thickness of 900m. –          Middle Devonian; Huoi Loi Formation ( D2 hl): Founded in form of small area in  Mường Xén, characterized by shale, sandstone, siltstone, marl and thinly bedded limestone with total thickness of 700-800m –          Middle Devonian; He Tang Nam Kan (D2-D3 nk):  Nậm Cắn formation is situated in small area near Mường Xén. It consists of limestone, siliceous limestone, marl, etc. The thickness is about 500-600m. –          Lower Carboniferous; La Khe Formation (C1lk): This formation includes black calcareous sandstone, grey and thinly bedded siliceous shale with total thickness of 300 – 800m. –          Carboniferous- Permian; Bac Son Formation (C-P BS): Characterized by light grey weakly-recrystallized limestone, intercalated with white grey marbleized limestone with total thickness of 50-500m. Mesozoic group  –          Triassic: Dong Trau Formation (T2 a DT): This formation has conglomerate, gritstone, sandstone, shale, ryolite, dacite and their tuffs. Its thickness is estimated about 700m. –          Triassic: Dong Do Formation (T3 n-r đđ): Characterized by 3-5m thick conglomerate beds of limestone, quartz or ryolite  with good roundness, shale, siltstone containing dark grey to green grey limestone. Total thickness is about 400m. –          Jurassic: Muong Hinh (J mh) Formation: Distributed in the north of the study area with the acid effusive rocks and their tuffs. The thickness is about 1100-1200m Cenozoic group Neogene-Khe Bo Formation (N kb): Composed of conglomerate, gritstone upwarding to conglomerate, shale intercalating sandstone; dark brown shale and lignite beds or lens. Total thickness is of 200mm. Quaternary: Quaternary deposits are situated in the terraces along the Ca River and some large streams. Those are pebble, grit, gravel and sand of alluvium, deluvium and proluvium, assigned to undivided quaternary.

 Geological hazards

All the geological hazards in western  Nge An can be categorized in to 6 hazards: : Land fracture – fall, landslide, flash flood – debris and mud flood, subaerial erosion, river bank erosion – accumulation and earthquake Land fracture – fall: In Huổi Giảng area, situated 5km SW of Kỳ Sơn town. The land fall occur in a large area (1.5 km2) with 3 consecutive falling bodies, stretching NE-SW direction. Each body is measured about 200m in length. The falling is on the slope of 45°, composed of sandstone, siltstone and shale. The after falling scar is left on the relief as the abrupt scarps. In Sốp Tháp village, about 3km SE of Huổi Nhị village, there are 3 consecutive falling bodies, stretching in sublatitudinal direction. The relicts are the abrupt scarps on quartzite sandstone relief. In Khe Bố area, the curve fracturing and falling occur in Sơn Hà village on the slope of 25°-30°. The fracture is measured of 150m in length. The falling body, composed of sandstone and siltstone weathering crust, blocks a small stream. In Xốp Chao, fracturing and falling on the slope of 30° in two side of Nâm Chao valley in sublatitudinal direction with the 300m length. The observed scar cut through sandstone bedrock. On the foot of the mountain, some ancient falling bodies are also found. Beside the mentioned above, there are also many land fracture – falls with an extent from some meters to dozens meters scattering in the region , especially along the large river in Con Cuông, Tương Dương, Quế Phong, Quỳ Hợp, etc. Landslide: Landslide is a widely occurring hazard causing a great damage to the western Nghe An Flash flood – debris and mud flood: The prediction zoning for Flash flood – debris and mud flood is assessed in different forms: flash flood caused by flow blocking; slope flash flood and debris and mud flood. Subaerial erosion: The northern centre of Vietnam has strong differentiated relief with high steepness, extreme climate: sunshine, wind, rain, typhoon, etc. resulting in strong soil erosion. This phenomenon is shown in 3 types: surface –washed erosion, gully erosion and wind-caused erosion. The cause of this erosion includes: relief, climate, weathering crust, vegetation. River erosion – accumulation: This hazard acts in form of river bank destruction and channel sedimentation Earthquake: Earthquake in northern centre of Vietnam mostly occurs along the Sông Cả – Rào Nậy fault

Pu Mat region

12.1.1 First type of habitat/land cover
The humid mixed large-leaved and needle-leaves subtropical evergreen closed forest
12.1.1.1. Characteristic species:
–          The dominant species of this forest type are species of families: Fagaceae, Lauraceae, Magnoliaceae, Cupressaceae, Podocarpaceae, Aceraceae, and Dipterocarpaceae. The dominant communities of plant are as follows:
–          Dominant community of Fokienia hodginsii – Eberhardtia tonkinensis – Quercus bambusaefolia –Aleseodaphne hainanensis.
–          Dominant community of Acer laurinum – Madhuca pasquieri – Eberhardtia tonkinensis – Podocarpus imbricatus.
–          Dominant community of Litsea lancifolia – Acer laurinum – Quercus myrsinafolia.
–          Dominant community of Hopea mollissima – Syzygium odoratum – Elaeocarpus harmandii – Litsea lancifolia.
–          Dominant single population of  Cunninghamia konishii.
–          Dominant community of Cunninghamia konishii – Quercus poilanei – Litsea lancifolia.
12.1.1.2. Important natural processes:
Distributed at the height above 900 m in the North and above 800 m in the South of Pu Mat National Park, this forest type cover makes up about 29% of the area and  remains highly primary. The seminude plants identified here include Fokienia hodginsii, Cunninghamia konishii, Dacrydium elatum, Nageia wallichiana, Podocarpus neriifolius, and Podocarpus imbricatus. Almost all of these species are recommended for conservation.
12.1.1.3. Main human impacts: .
This part of natural forest has been managed and protected quite strictly, hence it shows little sign of human impact. However, this habitat type is home to the Fokienia hodginsii, which is the target of exploitation for aloe-wood.
12.1.1.4. Relevant management practices:
This forest type is located in southern Pu Mat National Park, which is managed and protected directly by forest management departments, Pu Mat management and the People’ Committees of communes and districts where the forest are present. The core zone is defined clearly in terms of administrative border, also in terms of function. There is nevertheless a need for having suitable strategies to improve living conditions and increase human awareness of ecosystem.
12.1.2. Second type of habitat/land cover:
Dwarf forest
12.1.2.1. Characteristic species:
The forest structure supports two layers:
–          Dominant layer composed of above-mentioned species, which have diameter of 13 – 15 cm, average height of 8-9 m, tree-trunk is twisted and is covered by moss and lichen.
–          Under-canopy layer there are species of Arundinaria baviensis and a few species of families of  Melastomataceae, Moss and Polypodiophyta.
12.1.2.2. Important natural processes:
–          The dwarf forest in Pu Mat National Park lies above 1500 m, mainly on sloping mountain main and peak where there are rocks floating and hard wind. This is different from many other places where dwarf forest often appears on lower belt such as in Cuc Phuong dwarf forest is located at 600m, in Tam Dao 1100 m, in Ba Vi 1100 m, and in Phong Nha it is 800m.
–          The dwarf forest makes up 1.6% area of natural forest. Plant composition of dwarf forest has species of Rhododendron spp., Lithocarpus laotica, Illcium sp., Cinnamomum spp. and Orchids.
12.1.2.3. Main human impacts:
The forest is in region that has little affected by human beings.
12.1.2.4. Relevant management practices:
This forest type is managed and protected directly by forest management departments, Pu Mat management and People’ Committee of communes and districts where the forest belong to.
12.1.3. Third type of habitat/land cover:
Humid rainy tropical evergreen closed forest
12.1.3.1. Characteristic species
Dominant communities of plants:
–          Dominant community of Hopea mollissima – Michelia balansae –Canarium album – Polyanthia lauii – Cinnamomum parthenoxylon – Hopea hainanensis, making up from 25% to 35% of ecological niche at 300 – 400 m height.
–          Dominant community of Hopea hainanensis – Michelia balansae –Cinnamomum parthenoxylon – Pometia pinnata, covering the mountain belt of 400 – 600 m.
–          Dominant community of Acer laurinum – Quercus bambusaefolia –Nageia wallichiana – Dracontomelum duperraenum – Michelia balansae, also reaching 400 – 600 m.
–          Dominant community of Shorea chinensis – Cinnamomum iners – Syzygium odoratum – Knema pierrei – Symplocos laurina lancifolia, reaching 600-800 m.
–          Single dominant population of Hopea mollissima, which account for 20-22% of ecologically niche, appearing at height of 500-600 m in the North and at height of 300 m in the South of the National Park.
12.1.3.2. Important natural processes:
Of  humid rainy tropical evergreen closed forest type in Pu Mat, there is secondary forest type affected by human activities. This is the auxiliary forest type developing after extensive exploitation and slash and burn cultivation, including very poor forest, regenerated forest, and bamboo mixed forest and bamboo forest, with canopy degree still being maintained from 0.6 to 0.7. There however existed some highly valuable plants such as Hopea mollissima, Manglietia fordiana, Cinamomum sp., Shorea chinensis, Nageia fleuryi, Dialium cochinchinensis and woody species as: Dracontomelum dupereanum, Canxarium album, Engelhardtia wallichiana and Castanopsis sp.
12.1.3.3. Main human impacts
Main floristic composition of this forest type is photophilic wood species like Endospermum, Lystea bavesnis, Lagerstroemia tomentosa, and Trema orientalis. Along streams found mainly species of Ficus auriculata, Ficus racemosa, and Duabanga grandiflora. Besides, bamboo species here are distinguishably represented by Neohouzeaua with characteristic long internodes. In many parts of the forest Neohouzeaua grows quickly and forms densely uniform bamboo forest under canopy of wood trees, which prevent these trees from regeneration and growth. Thus a technical intervention is necessary to convert these bamboo forests into wood forest.
12.1.3.4. Relevant management practices:
This part of the region is managed and protected directly by forest management departments, Pu Mat management and People’ Committee of communes, districts where the forest is located.
12.1.4. Fourth type of habitat/land cover:
Grassland plots, bushy trees and scattering wood-trees.
12.1.4.1. Characteristic species:
Specific species are Imperata cylindrica, Eupatorium odoratum, Saccharum arundinaceum, Saccarum, Rhodomyrtus, and Melastomataceae. There are sometimes scrub and small wood-trees such as: Liquidambar formosora, Cratoxylum cochinchinensis, and Macaranga denticulata.
12.1.4.2. Important natural processes:
This was once slashed and burnt for agricultural cultivation, then left fallow but for insufficient time for succession to form forest.
12.1.4.3. Main human impacts:
The area has been abandoned for quite long and is now little further disturbed by humans.
12.1.4.4. Relevant management practices:
This forest sector makes up ¼ of the National Park area, situated mainly in two spring valley of Khe Thoi and Khe Thang
12.1.5. Fifth type of habitat/land cover: 
Land for agriculture cultivation and slash and burn.
12.1.5.1. Characteristic species:
This area is used mainly for planting manioc and maize to provide for local demands from 894 people of 163 households.
12.1.5.2. Important natural processes:
This forest type makes up an insignificant portion of the National Park area, which concentrate inside of Khe Thang valley. The area consists of about 15 ha for residential purpose, 30 ha of rich soil in riverine areas and fields and 300 ha of slash and burn land in three mountainous villages of Dan Lan people in Khe Thang region.
12.1.5.3. Main human impacts:
Forest is replanted for food, farm products and fruit-bearing trees by people.
12.1.5.4. Relevant management practices:
Efforts should be made to allocate land to households, combining with management and support to planting and livestock rising and technology transfer  to the local people. 

Pu Huong region

12.2.1 First type of habitat/land cover: Primary forest

12.2.1.1. Characteristic species:

Main composition is Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, Micheha mediocris, Amesiodendron chinensis, and Shorea chinensis

12.2.1.2. Important natural processes:

Primary forest has been formed by natural succession.

 

12.2.1.3. Main human impacts:

This is merely primary forest, which shows no sign of wood exploitation.

12.2.1.4. Relevant management practices

This region is managed and protected directly by forest management departments, management of the Pu Huong Nature Reserve and the People’s Committee of communes and districts that have forest.

12.2.2 Second type of habitat/land cover

Subtropical evergreen closed forest

12.2.2.1. Characteristic species

Major plant composition is Fokienia hodginsii with diameter reaching 100-200 cm, Cunninghamia konishii and Quecus blakei. In addition, there are also species of Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, and Vatica diospiroides. Decayed vegetation layer is fairly thick, which in some places is mixed with species of Dendrocalamus pastellaris and Lioma ovaolifolia.

12.2.2.2. Important natural processes

This type of habitat was formed principally through natural succession.

12.2.2.3. Main human impacts

This part of land cover has been little affected by human beings.

12.2.2.4. Relevant management practices

This region is managed and protected directly by forest management departments, management of  the Pu Huong Nature Reserve and People’s Committee of communes and districts where the forest belongs to.

12.2.3. Third type of habitat/land cover

Secondary forest.

12.2.3.1. Characteristic species:

–          In Ban Khi-Khe Kho Khe survey line: This type of forest coverage occurs extensively around the mountain belt adjacent to Khe Kho Khe at the height of 500 m. Key species is Parashorea chinensis, which have made use of riverine soil. The highest layer of this forest type supports species Amesiodendron chinensis, Chukaraisia tabularis, Madhuca pasquirei, and Micheha mediocris.

–          In Khe Kho Khe – Lan Bo Cho survey line: The plant composition of highest layer is chiefly Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, Micheha mediocris, and Amesiodendron Chinensis… The under canopy layer has species of Lystea bavesnis, Actinolaphne chinesis, Elaeocapus stipularis, Knema conferta, Quercus glauca, Castanopsis ferox, and Ormoria balansea…

–          In army road survey line: Almost covered by secondary forest and exploited by local people living in Ban Khi and Binh Chuan commune.

–          In Khe Co-Khe Hin Dong: Forest has been little disturbed. There are popular plants like Excentrodendron tonkinensis, Madhuca pasquieri, Syzygium sp., and Aglaia perviridis… This is main dwelling place of species of Pseudoryx nghetinhensis and Naemorhedus sumatraensis.

–          In Ta Ngan and Huu Ngan – Khe Bo survey line: The essential plant composition here include Actinolaphne chinesis, Micheha mediocris, Lystea bavesnis and Ormosia pinnata.

–          In Ban Huoi Lac-Chan Pu Lon, the forest has undergone re-growth, which has been little affected by wood exploiting activities. Primary animals seen in this area are old snares from September to November of last year (season to hunt beasts). Plant composition of higher canopy layer is mainly Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, Cinamomum sp., Amesiodendron chinensis, and Castanopsis ferox. The lower layer hosts species of Dendrocalamus pastellaris and Lioma ovaolifolia.

12.2.3.2. Important natural processes

This forest type was formed by secondary succession.

12.2.3.3. Main human impacts

At present, there are still places subject to illegal wood logging by people of Ban Khi and Binh Chuan communes.

12.2.3.4. Relevant management practices

This region is managed and protected directly by forest management departments, management of  Pu Huong Nature Reserve and People’s Committee of communes and districts that have forest. It is necessary to have a suitable policy in place to improve the local people’s living conditions and enhance their awareness about consequences of their behavior towards the ecosystem, either intentional or unintentional.

12.2.4. Fourth type of habitat/land cover

Biotope of dwarf forest

12.2.4.1. Characteristic species

There are typical trees like Rhododendron arboreum, Clethra sp, Lioma ovaolifolia and Enkianthus sp.…

12.2.4.2. Important natural processes

This forest type is often seen at Pu Huong triangular tip, which has narrow area, stunted tree-trunks covered by moss and orchid. The humus layer of this forest type has yet spitted and is always covered by humid and cold cloud.

12.2.4.3. Main human impacts

This forest part has been little affected by human beings.

12.2.4.4. Relevant management practices

This region is managed and protected directly by forest management departments, management of Pu Huong Nature Reserve and People’s Committee of communes and districts where the forest administratively belongs to.

12.2.5. Fifth type of habitat/land cover

Auxiliary limestone forest biotope.

12.2.5.1. Characteristic species

The popular vegetation is Excentrodendron tonkinensis, Madhuca pasquieri, Syzygium sp. and Aglaia perviridis. This is the main distribution site of species of Pseudoryx nghetinhensis and Naemorhedus sumatraensis.

12.2.5.2. Important natural processes

This part of forest has been little affected by human beings and thus retains all primary characteristics and is difficult to reach.

12.2.5.3. Main human impacts

This part of forest has been little disturbed by human activities.

12.2.5.4. Relevant management practices

These forest sections are managed and protected directly by forest management departments, management of Pu Huong Nature Reserve and People’s Committee of communes and districts that have forest.

12.2.6. Sixth type of habitat/land cover

Bamboo forest biotope.

12.2.6.1. Characteristic species

Species mixed with bamboo are small wood and other plants such as: Ormosia pinnata, Lystea bavesnis, Rhodomyrtus, and species of Melastomataceae.

12.2.6.2. Important natural processes

Bamboo forest biotope appeared due to secondary succession on fallow land that were deserted after slash and burn and cultivation on terraced  soil. 

12.2.6.3. Main human impacts

This is forest type that appeared after slash and burn cultivation, which covers a quite large area.

12.2.6.4. Relevant management practices

This forest part is managed and protected directly by forest protection bodies, management of Pu Huong Nature Reserve and People’s Committee of communes and districts that have forest.

12.2.7. Seventh type of habitat/land cover

Slash and burn/milpa forest biotope

12.2.7.1. Characteristic species

The chief composition is humid rice, upland rice, maize, bean, cassava and other plants and vegetation. There are primarily slash and burn areas left fallow, then restored from 1 to 2 years, with the main composition including Ormosia pinnata, Lystea bavesnis, and Elaeocarpus sp. with diameter reaching from 10 cm to 30 cm. This biological landscape extends from Khe Teo to the end of Khe Teo slope.

12.2.7.2. Important natural processes

Forests were cleared for slash and burn cultivation, then left fallow, as a result, these forest sections have short life cycle, with trees of less than 10 – 20 cm in diameter and canopy not exceeding 5 – 7 m in height.

12.2.7.3. Main human impacts

The area was cultivated for food through slash and burn practice.

12.2.7.4.  Relevant management practices:

This region is managed and protected directly by forest protection bodies, management of Pu Huong Nature Reserve and People’s Committee of communes and districts that have forest. Currently the forestland has been allocated to households who received technical assistance in cultivation and livestock rising.

Pu Hoat region

12.3.1. Fist type of habitat/land cover The alpine large-leaved and needle-leaved mixed monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest.   12.3.1.1. Characteristic species Dominant plants are large-leaved and needle-leaved trees. There are some species that have big stature but density and biomass do not surpass 30%. The dominant families are Lauraceae, Fagaceae, Theaceaea, Araliaceae, Aceraceae, Rosaceae, Orchidaceae; families of seminude plant: Cupressaceae, Taxodiaceae, Podocarpaceae; There are typical species of Cinnamomum liangi, C. iners, C. cambodianum, C. litseafolium, Beilschmiedia, Litsea mollis, L. atrata, L.garretii, Machilus decursirvus, Castanopsis platycalyx, Lithocarpus cornea, L. coatilus, Quercus bambusaefolia, Quercus halpheriana, Adinandra hainanensis, Euryea japonica, Schima wallichii, Croton maieuticus, Mitilaria laosensis, Symingtonia tonkinensis, Carya tonkinensis, Tsoongiodendron odorum, Eriobotrya cavalieri, Photinia arguta, Altingia excelsa and Madhuca. In particular, seminude needle-leaved plants participating in ecological niche include species of Fokienia hodginsii, Podocarpus imbricatus, Nageia fleuryii, Pdocarpus neriifolius, Calocedrus macrolepsis, and Cunninghamia konishii. The forest splits into three layers; the dominant layer creates canopy with species of above-mentioned large-leaved and needle –leaved tree such as Nageia fleuryi and Dacrycarpus imbricatus.   12.3.1.2. Important natural processes: From a scientific point of view, this is one of very few areas of the country that still retain a forest sample on mountain tips with many endemic species and especially with existence of the old needle-leaved species (seminude trees) such as Fokienia hodginsii, Calocedrus macrolepsis and Cunninghamia konishii. Although the number and biomass of these species are not large, but these are with big stature in terms of both height and diameter that no home species can be compared to. If compared to eight plant species introduced in “Tropical rainforest” by P.W.Richarhs like Sewuoia sempevriens, H = 102, D = 8; Eucalyptus regnans in Australia, H = 97; Gingko biloba in China with perimeter reaching 16 cm; Koompasia exelsa in Sarawark, Cunninghamia konishii in Pu Hoat can rank the eighth or ninth among the trees with biggest stature in the world. As a result, the populations of needle-leaved species of this kind in Pu Hoat is one of the very little samples on Earth that still exist and bring about quaint scenery on high mountain top region that is always covered by cloud.   12.3.1.3. Main human impacts Of this type, there are many endemic, valuable and endangered species. The forest is almost undamaged, as human interventions have been limited to hunting activities (primarily by H’Mong people of Sai family).   12.3.1.4.  Relevant management practices This region is managed and protected directly by forest protection bodies, management of  the Pu Hoat Nature Reserve and People’s Committee of communes and districts that have forest. This core zone was clearly laid out in terms of administrative border and function. There is a need to have a suitable policy in place to improve the local’s living conditions and increase human awareness of ecosystem because human activities whether unintentional or intentional are very influential in this ecosystem.   12.3.2. Second type of habitat/land cover The large-leaved monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest on Medium Mountain:   12.3.2.1. Characteristic species Dominant plants are the well-grown large-leaved where as needle-leaved plants such as the Nageia fleuryi scatter in a few places of mountain main sides and on very steep land. Large-leaved trees are represented by species of Fagaceae family, including the Castanopsis seracantha, C. ferox, c. indica, Lithocarpus dussaudi, L. Trachycarpa and Quercus fleuryi, which are many and advantageous in terms of ecological niche.   Lauraceae has 30 species. The Dipterocarpaceae has fewer species, however, they predominantly occupy many forest parts in Thong Thu and Pu Pha Nha, covering above 50% of the habitat. Magnoliaceae has many high timber-tree species Michelia, Mangkietia, Tsoongiodendion. In particular, the Sapotaceae has many famous woodlogs such as Madhuca pasquiera with diameter reaching above 60 – 80 cm, sometimes also occupying about 3 – 5% of ecological niche.   In this forest type, the following families appeared and played important roles: the Meliaceae with species of Aglaia; Sapindaceae with species of Pometia and Mischocarpus; Ebenaceae with  6 – 7 species of Diospyros member. This forest type is almost free from human impact, which is highly primary and there are valuable and rare animals living such as: Elephas maximus, Bos gaurus, Cervidae, Urcidae and Muntiacus muntjak.   12.3.2.2. Important natural processes Located at 800-1,500 m, this type of forest was distributed spaciously on mountain sides from forest block bordering Thanh Hoa, Chu River to the side of Pu Pha Nha, Pu Cao Ma, Pu Pha Lang and the East of Pu Hoat Mountain. Forest grows on yellow ferralitic soil; original stone is primary riolite and granite with strong weathering and thick to medium soil layer. Erosion and covert point are 0.8. This forest type still holds basic primitiveness with a few places being terraced for crop fields.   12.3.2.3. Main human impacts This forest type has been little affected by human activities.   12.3.2.4.  Relevant management practices: This region is managed and protected directly by forest protection bodies, management of the Pu Hoat Nature Reserve and the People’s Committee of communes and districts that have forest. This core zone was clearly identified in terms of administrative border and function. It is necessary to have suitable policies to improve living conditions of the local people and enhance human awareness of ecosystem.   12.3.3. Third type of habitat/land cover The large-leaved monsoonal tropical evergreen closed forest on Low Mountain.   12.3.3.1. Characteristic species Plant canopy is not uniform with many families and many photophilic representatives of the Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Meliaceae, Moraceae, Papilionoceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Ebenaceae, Lauraceae, Fagaceae and the Elaeocarpaceae. Forest has structure of three layers of which the ecologically advantageous layer forms forest canopy with typical species: Engelhrdtia, Garcinia, Endospermum, Peltophorum, Deutzianthus, Adenanthera, Ficus, Randia, Gironiera, Elaeocarpus, Litsea and Beilschmiedia.   12.3.3.2. Important natural processes: Distributed at under 800m, the forest grows on yellow-red ferralitic soil, original stone is primary granite, stone blocks. The thin topsoil was eroded hard in most of the area because of periods of slash and burn cultivation.   12.3.3.3. Main human impacts In general, if comparing with many forest in Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Nghia Dan, the soil layer of this forest type has not been eroded such seriously. Also, reproductive situation is good with many valuable plants and vegetation. Number of reproductive trees amounts 10,000 trees/ha while the number of more than 3-metre-tall trees account for about 2,200 trees/ha. Although this forest type is affected by slash and burn activities and illegal exploitation, a few places remain primary with many big animals dwelling.   12.3.3.4.  Relevant management practices This region is managed and protected directly by forest protection bodies, management of the Pu Hoat Nature Reserve and the people’ committee of communes and districts that have forest. This core zone was clearly identified in terms of administrative border and function. Therefore, it is necessary to have a suitable policy in place to improve living conditions of the local people and increase human awareness of ecosystem.

 

 

Conservation of landscape and biodiversity

Pu mat (core zone 1)

Overall, 80% of the Pu Mat National Park and buffer zone are forested land. Within the Pu Mat National Park itself, 62% of the area is primary (largely undisturbed) forest, whereas 30% is disturbed, open-canopy forest. 3% of the area is heavily disturbed re-growth forest (bamboo and bush or scrub). 1% is composed of active agricultural areas (along the valley of Khe Khang). The remainder is riverine scrub and associated vegetation, rocks and bare land, and areas covered by cloud that cannot be classified.

 

Results of the survey of vegetation structure that examining examples of three vegetation profiles from different altitudes are shown in Figures 2.2 to 2.4, representing the major natural forest habitats in the Pu Mat National Park: lowland forest, forest on slopes and lower alpine forest. Habitats that were not depicted are associated with past human disturbance, such as bamboo forest and various secondary forest formations. Vegetation profile from Plot 1 in Khe Bu sector at 300 m a. s. l. on the slope of Pu Huoi peak:

–          Emergent layer: Hopea mollisima, as tall as 36 m. The canopy formed by this species was large with big trunks and lacked buttresses.

–          Canopy layer: Reaching 28 m, including members of the families Dipterocarpaceae (Hopea mollissima), Fagaceae (Lithocarpus laoensis) and Ulmaceae (Gironniera subaequalis).

–          Under-canopy layer: Dominant families were Fagaceae (Lithocarpus, C. astanopsis), Ulmaceae (Gironniera subaequalis), Lauraceae (Beilschmiedia balansae), Rubaceae (Aidia spp.) and Clusiaceae (Garcinia sp.).

–          Ground layer: Dominant species of families Melastomaceae (Phyllagathis spp.), Dryopteridaceae (Dryoptersis spp.), Rubiaceae (Lazianthus spp.), Aspleniaceae (Diplazium donianum), Myrsiniaceae (Adisia spp.), Poaceae (Dendrocalamus spp.), Arecaceae (Calamus spp.), Commelinaceae (Pollia spp.) and Fabaceae (Milletia spp.). Most of the ground flora wrer shrubs and herbs which are able to tolerate the shading and dry conditions. Seedlings of the canopy trees were relatively common, of which the seedlings of the shade-loving species of the lower canopy were most numerous. Species of Taeniostachyum dulloa occurring in the plot is able to grow to fill a space gap created where canopy trees have fallen previously.

 

Vegetation profile from plot 2 in Thac Kem sector at 580 m.a.s.l. on the slope of Dot Khe Chat: A total of 190 individuals of 41 species, 27 genera and 21 families made up the tree florea of the plot. Xanthophyllum hainanense was dominant throughout the 3 layers.

 

–          Emergent layer: Species of Dipterocarpus restus of 45-metre height, with very large trunk without buttress. Canopy is large and has the shape of an umbrella.

–          Canopy layer: Dominant species were Hopea hainanensis, Xanthophyllum hainanense and Fagaceae spp. Also present were Lithocarpus sp., Castanopsis hystrix, Aidia cochichinensis, Madhuca pasquieri, Syzygium spp., Ficus altissima, Elaocarpus dubius, Dalium cochichinense, Quercus bambusiif olius, Livistona saribus and Litsea balansae.

–          Under-canopy laer: species under 15 m height comprising  Archidendron sp., Diospyros sp., Garcinia sp., Livistona sp., Xanthophyllum sp., Hopea sp., Syzygium sp., Aidia sp., Litsea sp., and seedlings of the canopy layer species.

–          Ground layer: consisting of shrubs, herbs and seedlings that grew sparsely, with 44 species from 38 genera and 26 families being present. Common species were Syzygium (frequency 76%), Archidendron (68%), Phyllagathis (60%), Hemigramma and Aidia (50%).

 

Vegetation profile from plot 4 at Khe Thoi at 1,200 m. a.s.l. the slope of Pu Bun peak: A total of 89 individuals of 36 species from 30 genera and 21 families were. Common species included  Hopea mollisima, Livistona saribus, Lithocarpus spp., Quercus spp., Syzygium spp., Cinnanomomum sp., and Cryptocarya spp.

–          Canopy layer: above 20-metre-tall species of Hopea mollissima, Syzygium spp., Cinnamomum sp., Castanopsis hystrix, Lithocarpus hamata, Lithocarpus sp., Madhuca pasquieri, Quercus sp., Horsfieldia tetrapetala, Livistona saribus and Canarium album.

–          Under-canopy layer: 10-20 m tall, with Aidia oxydonta, Engelhardtia spicata, Syzygium spp., Hopea mollisima, Diospyros sp., Cinnamomum parthenoxylon, Diospyros apiculata, Gironniera subaequalis, Polyanthia spp., Livistona saribus, Garcinia oblongifolia and Aidia spp.

–          Lower layer: 5-8 m tall, with Diospyros apiculata, Knema sp., Symplocos spp., Aidia spp., Albizia sp., Cryptocarya sp., Syzyium spp. and Cinnamomum partheroylon.

–          Ground layer: Predominantly seedlings canopy trees and herb species with coverage of 46%. Abundant species were Melastomataceae, Ardisa, Tabernaemontana and Acanthaceae and Rubiaceae.

 

Primary tropical evergreen forest: Vegetation profile from plot 1 at Khe Bu shows plant species arranged in a primary tropical forest type, although they showed certain sign of human impact. Emergent species are Hopea molissima and Lithocarpus laosensis. This profile indicated four different kinds of flora layer typical of  tropical forest including even trees of emergent layer reaching up to 36 m, for example species of Hopea mollissima (Dipterocarpaceae). Main layer is 18-28 m tall.

 

Lowland primary evergreen forest on slopes. A vegetation profile from Plot 2 in Thac Kem sector represented primary forest at mid-altitude in Pu Mat National Park; the vegetation in the plot is dominated by Hopea hananensis. The emergent trees that reached up to 25 m in this plot include those of Dipterocarpaceae. Furthermore, the plot can be seen to have a high tree density, most of which have small diameter, and thus having a low BAI. This is probably a result of past natural disturbance. The species recorded in the plot are indicative of primary forest.

 

Lower primary alpine forest: The example is from Plot 4 in Khe Thoi sector. The vegetation is dominated by Hopea mollissima, Syzygium spp., species of the Fagaceae and Cinnamomum sp. This was unusual for lower montage forest because while Syzygium spp., Fagaceae and Cinnamomum sp. are normally associated with lower Montana forest, the family Dipterocarpaceae is often more dominant at altitudes such as the other two plots mentioned above (both are dominated by Dipterocarpaceae). As expected, the canopy was lower than in the other two plots.

 

In some areas of the reserve, particularly in the parts close to the international border, the lower primary alpine forest is dominated by Fokenia hodginsii and Nageia wallichiana on the ridge crests and Cunninghamia konishii on slopes below the ridge crests. The vegetation between these emergent trees is shorter than in the plot shown. It is very rare to find this forest type in a pristine state due to the high value of the timber from many of the coniferous trees.

 

As shown by satellite images, forest coverage of the Pu Mat National Park remains extensive. Two basic forest types can be differentiated. A denser forest occurs primarily on middle and upper slopes of the mountains, above about 900 m asl. It is not clear whether this represents a distinct botanical community, however. More likely it shows those areas where the canopy has been less disturbed by human activity. Separate patches of this forest occurred on Cao Veu, Pu Luong and Pu Nong mountains, but it is concentrated along the border with Laos and in the upper Khe Bu valley and Pu Mat mountain area. A large patch of this forest type also occurred north of the Khe Thoi River extending outside the border of Pu Mat National Park into Tam Dinh commune.

A more open forest, with occasional patches of shrubs and bamboo, occurs in the river valleys and on lower slopes. In many areas these forests have been disturbed to varying degrees by past agricultural activity, and they are currently subject to disturbance by extensive illegal logging. Probably the extent of this forest type as depicted is representative of the extent of forests that are easily logged.

 

Along Khe Khang River, extending into Khe Bu is an area where shrubs, short grass and cultivation land predominates. This is the only area of Pu mat National Park where people are currently settled. Forest clearance is mainly restricted to areas along the river valley, but is probably extending further away from the river, and further up the valleys each year. Vegetation structure: dominant families in the primary forest include:

–          Dipterocarpaceae Hopea and Dipterocarpus

–          Fagaceae especially genera Quercus, Lithocarpus and Castanopsis

–          Lauraceae including the genera Cinnamomum and Litsea

 

At higher altitudes, including the lower mountain up to about 1,500 m, families Fagaceae, Lauraceae and Myrtaceae predominate, but the lowland family Dipterocarpaceae was still an important component of the overall forest structure.

 

At the highest elevations, above about 1,500 m, the families Cupressaceae (Fokienia), Arucariaceae (Cunninghamia) and Podocapaceae (Nageia) are found but Dipterocarpaceae are absent.

 

The open degraded forest supports families such as Fagaceae (including genera Castamopsis), which is not normally associated with secondary forest. Species of the Juglandaceae (Engelhardia) were also recorded, which is characteristic of secondary forest. Other forms of secondary vegetation types such as bamboo forest and grasslands are found in Pu Mat National Park but were not focused upon during the survey.

 

With 1,144 confirmed species so far, with probably many more still to be identified, Pu Mat National Park is probably home to one of the highest number of plant species in any protected areas in Viet Nam. To some extent this reflects the very large sampling effort made at Pu Mat National Park, but it also reflects the biodiversity and the relatively undisturbed nature of the vegetation in comparison to many other protected areas. Also, no attempt has so far been made to sample the very distinct vegetation on the limestone karsts in the buffer zone of Pu Mat National Park, which certainly contains a lot of species not found in the Reserve itself.

 

Pu Mat National Park contains a numbers of rare and endangered species. It is therefore particularly important to conserve areas of nearly pristine mountain forest dominated by conifers such as Fokenia hodginsii and Cunninghamia konishii. This forest type is heavily exploited for timber wherever it occurs. In Pu Mat National Park, these conifers have been logged from all accessible areas and hence they could only persist in the upper mountain regions along the Viet Nam/Laos border, and only in watersheds where it is impossible to raft the timber downstream. The conifers appeared not to be regenerating in the areas of the Pu Mat National Park from which they have been extirpated, probably due to the burning of the ridge tops to facilitate timber extraction, which have destroyed all seedling and saplings. Assisted natural regeneration of these areas will be required to restore the original vegetation cover.

 

Pu Huong (core zone 2)

Natural area of the reserve is 49,806 ha, of which un-forested land is 1, 3348 ha making up 26.81% and forestland is 36,458 ha making up 73.19%. Among forested areas, forest that has been little affected occupies 13,489 ha making up 37% and forest that has been affected is 22,969 ha, accounting for 63%. The little affected forest is primary forest covering the North of the mountain main, along the main ridge and part of the South Mountain main. There are two main forest types:

 

Large-leaved humid rainy evergreen tropical forest: Being 200 m to 800-900 m tall, dominant families are: Lauraceae, Rubiaceae and Dipterocarpaceae. Although there are few species, number of individuals occupying ecological niches in many places in a dominant manner. For example, Hopea mollissima species were found present numerously at height of 400-900 m in the northern mountain side and at height of 700-1,000 m to the south, making up above 30-35% forest coverage. In ecological niche in belt below 400 m species Parashorea chinensis is dominant in riverine areas and in many other places. Shorea chinensis creates emergent canopy layer but in the past few years it has been illegally exploited along the northern streams.

 

To the north, this forest type is composed of dominant species and forms dominant populations with species: Pometia pinnata, Dracontomelum duperenum, Dysoxilum binectariferum, Amesiodendron chinensis, Amesiodendron chinense, Chukrasia tabularis, Aphanamisi polystachya, Cinnamomum balasnea, Madhuca pasquirea and Michelia acnea. But the most commonly seen species that were present at all studied plots are species of families Lauraceae and Fagaceae such as Quercus chevaliei, Quercus glauca, Castanopsis ferox, Castanopsis tribuloides, Castanopsis indica, Machilus chinensis, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Cinnamomum tetragonum, Cryptocarya metcalfiana and Beilschmiedia laevis. Species of Gironierausbaequalis is also present widely together with Ormosia balansae. Along rivers there are also endemic species like Platanus kerri and Altinggia sinensis…

 

To the north side of Pu Huong, dominant populations of Hopea mollissima, Pometia and Madhuca pasquieri reach higher than in the South. The population of Hopea mollissima and Madhuca pasquieri appeared at height from above 500 m, and species of Lagerstroemia tomentosa was distributed at height of 500-700 m together with species Protium Seratum. Lagerstroemia tomentosa shades leaves in the dry season, but number of individuals is not significant, therefore it does not form semideciduous forest on Pu Huong South.

 

Subtropical evergreen closed forest: Reaching above 900 m, this type of habitat covers a range along mountain main from Pu Huong to Pu Lon and a very small part on Phu-Chay-Ngo Mountain to the South. This forest type accounts for only under 10% of area, There are two typical seminude species of Fokienia hodginsii and Cunninghamia lanceslota but these two species are only present intensively at Pu Lon peak, the North of the Reserve on belt above 1,100 m. In a few places there are also other seminude plants such as Podocarpus neriifolius and Podocarpus wallichi, Fokienia hodginsii with mature diameter reaching D = 60-120 cm, H = 25 – 30 m. Cunninghamia honishii has straight trunk, seldom branches and is often higher than  species Fokienia hodginsii. To the South of the mountain main, there are typical subtropical forest with species such as IILicium griffithii, Quecus bambuseafolia, Annesla te, Tutcheria multisepala, Pentaphyllax euryoides, Podocarpus and Gaultheria yunanensis.

 

Dwaft forest: There is narrow area at Pu Lon peak at 1,500 m height, stunted tree-trunk covered by moss and orchid.

There are specific species of Rhododendron arboreum, Clethra sp, Lioma ovaolifolia, and Enkianthus sp. The forest layer only reaches about 4.6 m with diameter being unnoticeable. The humus layer of this kind of forest still has not spitted, which is consistently covered by humid and cold cloud.

 

Bamboo forest: This type of forest appeared at height under 800 m and forming massive coverage of 150 – 300 ha and scattered all over two mountainsides. IT is believed that bamboo forest appeared after slash and burn and abandonment of forestland of the local people.

Conservation of species biodiversity

Diversity of flora in Pu Mat National Park A total of around 10,000 species specimens were collected. The 9,000 samples collected during 1998 have mostly been identified to species level by a team of 25 Vietnamese plant taxonomists. The 1,036 additional species collected in 1999 have been preliminarily identified by Pu Mat National Park staff. A total of around 1,208 species have been identified of which 1,144 names have been confirmed to date. A full list of the confirmed species is provided in Appendix 2.   Plant surveys were made within each sector of the Reserve. However, due to limitations on the accessibility of many of the remoter areas, in particular the higher altitude areas, the survey of the lower mountain and particularly the montane zones are considered incomplete. It is very likely that many species occurring in the Reserve have still unrecorded. Furthermore, no surveys have been conducted of the forest growing on the limestone karsts of the buffer zone, which certainly contains many species not found in the other forest formations. Table 15: Number of families, genera and species identified within each plant order or sub-order    Families Genera Species Psilotophyta 1 1 1 Lycopodiaceae 2 2 7 Equisetophyta 1 1 1 Polypodiophyta 19 42 69 Gymnospermae 4 4 5 Angiospermae       Dicotyledoneae 112 419 935 Monocotyledoneae 20 76 126 Total 159 545 1,144  New species: Taxonomic studies during 1999 have so far confirmed three new species from the samples collected in Pu Mat National Park. These are: –          Cleistanthus sp. nov. (Euphorbiaceae) –          Phyllagathis sp. nov. (Melastomataceae) –          Phrynium pumatensis. (sp. nov.) (Marantaceae) –          A number of other possible new species are still under taxonomic study.   Rare and endangered species: Species recorded during the survey that were considered rare by the botanists responsible for the collection or are included in the IUCN list of threatened plant species (IUCN, 1997) are indicated in Appendix.

Conservation of genetic biodiversity

Pu Mat (Core zone 1) Flora: According to initial statistics of 2004, Pu Mat National Park has recorded 2,494 species of 928 genera of 202 families of six plant phyla arranged specifically as follows:   Table 16: The taxa of flora in Pu Mat National Park   Phyla of flora Number of families Number of genera Number of species Psilotophyta 1 1 1 Lycopodiophyta 2 3 18 Equisetophyta 1 1 1 Polypodiophyta 24 68 150 Pinophyta 6 10 16 Magnoliophyta +Magnoliopsida + Monocotyledons 168 136 32 845 685 160 2,308 2,036 372 Total 202 928 2,494   Rare and endangered plants: Of total 2,494 species there are 37 species written in Viet Nam Red Book with one species endangered, 12 species vulnerable, 9 species rare, 3 species threatened and 13 species also belonging to three first ranks but insufficiently know. If comparing with IUCN Red List (1997), there are 20 species including one species that belongs to E rank, 3 species that belong to National Park Rank and 6 species belonging to R rank.   Fauna: According to survey results in 1993, 1994 and 1998, 1999 by international and national scientists, there are 938 animal species in total in Pu Mat, including groups: mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian, fish, butterfly and moth. These figures are evident that Pu Mat has the highest biodiversity in comparison with other Nature Reserves in Viet Nam. Especially number of mammal amounts to 131 species whereas other groups as butterfly, moth, fish and bird are present in the same number of species as in the neighboring Vu Quang and Phong Nha Nature Reserve that also located in North Annamite range.   Table 17:  The taxon of fauna defined in Pu Mat National Park.   Class Number of orders Number of families Number of species Mammal 12 29 131 Bird 15 46 295 Reptile 2 15 48 Amphibian 1 7 25 Fish 5 14 84 Moth 1 11 305 Butterfly   2 94 Total 36 124 938   Endemic factor: Number of ornis and mammal fauna found in Pu Mat are also high, there are up to 12 species (For Viet Nam and Lao). Of which there are specific species such as Sus bucculenus, Trachypithecus, Pseudorix nghetinhensis, Megamuntiacus vuquangensis, Muntiacus truongsonensis, Pygatherix nemaeus, Hylobates leucolenys, Nesdagus sp., Chrotogale owstoni, Rheinardia ocellata and Jabouileia danjoui. Therefore, from a conservation perspective, Pu Mat is not only nationally significant but it also has value for Laos PDR and Indochina in general.   Rare and endangered animal groups:  Composition and number of Pu Mat rare and endangered animals are quite high. There are 77 species listed in Viet Nam Red Book (1992) and 62 species at local level and included IUCN Red List. Number of rare and endangered animals need to conserve are shown in Table 18 as follows:   Table 18. Group of rare and endangered animals classified according to Viet Nam Red Book and IUCN.   Class Viet Nam Red Book IUCN 1996 E V R T Total Mammal 13 19 7 1 40 31 Bird 1   3 8 12 24 Reptile 1 9 1 5 16 4 Amphibian     1 2 3 7 Fish   5 1   6   Total 15 33 13 16 77 62 Note: E: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; R: Rare; T: Threatened   More importantly, population of some species of birds and large mammals that have been critically endangered in Viet Nam and in the World can still be conserved and developed through appropriate management and conservation actions in Pu Mat National Park. They are Elephas maximus, Panthera tigris, Pseudoyx nghetinhensis, Bos gaurus, Macaca nemestrina and Rheinadia ocellata.     Pu Huong (core zone 2) Forest resources do not only consist of bamboo and wood reserves but also include valuable wood species such as Madhuca pasquieri, Madhuca pasquirei, Excentrodendron tonkinensis, Aquilaria crassna, Dialium cochinchinensis, Chukrasia tabulasis, Toona sureni, Lagerstroemia tomentosa, Altingia excelsa, Shorea chinensis, Diospyros, Glenniea philippinensis, Pometia, Cinnamomum balansae, Cinnamomum glaucescens and Cinnamomum ovatum. It is reasonable to say that Nghe An forest has long known as valuable forest, particularly in Quy Hop, Quy Chau, and Pu Huong is the same, but because Pu Huong is located in more remote and deeper region it is better preserved.   In addition to wood species composition and distribution of Calamus of Arecaceae are relatively plentiful. There are species Calamus radulosus, Calamus rotang, Calamus diocus and Calamus tenuis. There are also valuable rattan species with large diameter of 3–6 cm such as: Calamus scipionum, Calamus rudentum and Platyacanthus. Every year, people also come in the forest to exploit Dianella nemorosa to make aromatic spices. If areas around Pu Huong towards the North such as Que Phong are typically covered by Cinnamomum tamala plantations, it can also be found many Cinnamomum tamala growing naturally with small diameter. Source of income from excessive exploitation of aloe wood has been in the danger of serious decline. Pu Lon peak still preserve many populations of Fokieniahodginsii and Cunninghamia lanceolata. These will be seed forest stands for rare and valuable gene source.    Pu Hoat (Core zone 3) Flora: According to a preliminary survey in 1997, Pu Hoat Nature Reserve has totally 763 species of 427 genera of 124 families. Of which there are 30 rare and endangered species written in Viet Nam Red List.   Table 19: Flora surveyed in Pu Hoat Nature Reserve   Classified groups Number of families Number of genera Number of species Polydiophyta Pinophyta Magnoliophyta: Including: + Magnoliopsida + Monocotyledon 15 4 105   87 18 24 6 397   330 67 59 7 697   585 112 Total 124 427 763   Polydiophyta has 59 species, Pinophyta according to the preliminary survey has 7 species of which there are four rare and valuable species as: Fokienia hodginsii group K; Calocedrus macrolepis group V; Nageia fkeuryi group V and Cunninghamia konishii group R.   Of above-mentioned rare and valuable seminude species, the most noticeable species is Cunninghamia konishii. This is a rare and endangered species that distributes very narrowly and that has been seen for the first time in Vietnam natural forest. In 1965 the first few samples of Cunninghamia konishii were collected in Pu Hoat. This species also occurs in Hua Phan province of Laos bordering Pu Hoat Mountain as well as in Taiwan. The July 1997’s survey discovered populations of Cunninghamia konishii rising at height of above 1800 m in forest blocks 91, 91, 95, 96, 56. Species Cunninghamia konishii was arranged in group R of Red List and distributes very limitedly in Nghe An, Huoi Phan (Laos) and Taiwan. At present, people have planted Cunninghamia konishii in some places as Sa Pa, Bac Ha, Đong Van, Ngan Son, Tam Đao but it is a introduced plant and belong to species C. lanceolata.

Conservation of genetic biodiversity

Potential for fostering economic and human development which is socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable  The potential of economic and human development which is researched at a village in Con Cuong district is reported in Provincial documents. A Khe Nong village, Con Cuong district, Nghe An province is situated in mountainous region belongs to the buffer zone of Pu Mat Nature Reserve. This is the most underdeveloped community in the northern mountainous region. Khe Nong’s topography is mountainous valley. The village is not easy of access. It is 110 km far from the great urban centres. The life of the Dan Lai people is basically self-sufficiency. They still live according to their long-standing tradition custom with mode of rotational cultivation and forest’s product collecting. The population density of Khe Nong is very low (0.8 people/ha). The ratio of population growth is not high. So that, the people in the age under 20 accounts for 55%, more than the people in the age between 20-59. Population structure in the community is population structure of youth. So that, the population has been growing in next decade and more. This is urgent matter which needs to solve because population growth becoming a real threat to environment conservation efforts.   Natural resource, especially agricultural land is real scarce. Although the population density of Khe Nong is low, it’s under the influence of population pressure on the natural resources. Khe Nong is a community of top rank of natural resources conservation and sustainable agricultural ecosystems. All households at Khe Nong have income by cash or in kind per capita are below the poverty line. The rate of households which are underfed more than a month during the year accounts for nearly 95%. Inhabitants at Khe Nong assess to outside world mainly through their meeting. The rate of people who assess to the mass media is very low. Newspaper is not considered as important information resources because of their difficult access. They exchange the outside world by going to nearest market in the townlet. Vietnam is in the development period. All the policy and programmed of Government made a tremendous impact on community in the northern mountain region including Khe Nong. The potential of economic and human development which is socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable shows that: Khe Nong is located in the belt of the Nature Reserve. It has the primary and secondary forest, accounts for 79.5% area; the rest is bamboo, bush tree, grass and agricultural land. Agricultural land is divided into 2 types as humid-rice field and milpa (fields in the mountains). After a few years, these area are left fallow, bush tree and bamboo grow naturally. It can become a mixed forest if it has not been destroyed.  Several years later, this forest area can be reclaimed and used for agriculture. There are 7 types of vegetation cover: the primary forest, the evergreen broad-leaved secondary forest, the natural bamboo forest, the evergreen broad-leaved scrub, high grass, low grass, humid-rice field, milpa. In 7 types, the evergreen broad-leaved forest (including primary and secondary forest) has not been impacted by human. 4 types in the above which are the natural bamboo forest, the evergreen broad-leaved scrub, high grass, low grass can grow naturally or human made. Only the 2 types such as humid-rice field, milpa which has been entirely impacted by human. The area of natural forest in Khe Nong quite large. All the forest type in Khe Nong covering 34 ha in average. The sustainable economic development in the proposed biosphere reserve is opportunity to improve the living standard of Dan Lai ethnic people. Conservation and management of the proposed biosphere reserve would support the eco-tourism development and sustainable development. Local managers have introduced technical methods for taking all forest products in order to raise income of local household that depend on forestry. Furthermore, establishment of the proposed biosphere reserve would relocate labor, building infrastructure.

Tourism development

A. How many visitors come to the proposed Biosphere Reserve each year?

200,000

B. Is there a trend towards increasing numbers of visitors? (Give some figures if possible)

A double in 2008

14.2.1. Type(s) of tourism

[ Study of flora and fauna, recreation, camping, hiking, sailing, horseracing, fishing, hunting, skiing, etc.]

 

With the natural landscape and scenic beauty of entire region from Pu Hoat, Pu Huong and Pu Mat National Park, Pu Hoat – Pu Pha Lang – Pu Pha Nha mountain chains reach to Pu Khang, Pu Huong with a peak of above 1500m (the highest peak 2,452m) in Ca river valley in the north, Pu Xai Lai Leng, Pu Den Din, Pu Mat, Cao Veu in Ca river valley in the south. A system of rivers and streams in the upper of Ca river valley have created not only unique landscape but also bold human culture region of Thai ethnic people (along the banks of Hieu river, Nam Mo river, Khe Thoi river), O Du ethnic people (along the banks of Nam Non river), Dan Lai ethnic people (Khe Choang river) and intermix cultures along the banks of Ca rivers. The value of natural landscape and cultural character attach to the tourism potential.

 

In economic development activities, eco-tourism is considered a key factor fostering the entire conservation activities which attach to tourism service in order to improve and raise the inhabitant’s living standard gradually. Tourism and cultural activities, festival of ethnic groups have been developing. The conservation of the full hierarchy of biodiversity, including landscapes, ecosystems, species and genes, especially primeval forest will attract tourist in the coming time. The provincial people’s committee has guided these activities as a part of their sustainable development strategy.

 

Table 20: Tourist destination and line combining the nature conservation with the value of local culture.

 

Tourist destination	The value of local culture	The content of natural conservation
Along Hieu river enter to Ca river	–          Thai ethnic group culture in Kim Son, Que Phong –          Festival, culture of Kho Mu, H’ Mong  and Kinh ethnic groups	–          Primary old forest on high mountain range –          Limestone mountain cave –          Waterfall
Along Nam Non river to Nam Mo river junction enter to the upper of Ca river	–          Daily activities of O Du ethnic group –          Vestiges of O Du ancient culture –          Exchanges Festival on the river, catch fish –          Ban Ve Hydroelectric Plant	–          Primary old forest on high mountain range –          Limestone mountain cave –          Waterfall
Along Ca river from Cua Rao down Ky Son, Tuong Duong, Con Cuong, Anh Son regions	–          Interfere and combined culture value of ethnic groups: Thai, Kinh, Kho Mu –          Cultivation mode of ethnic groups –          Space distribution of townlet, district, village	–          Primary old forest on mountain range along river –          Limestone mountain cave –          Waterfall –          Natural forests
Exploration line Khe Thoi, Khe Choang, Nam Non upriver, conquer the peak of Pu Hoat, Pu Huong, Pu Mat mountains	–          Residence in the ancient time of Kho Mu, O Du, Dan Lai ethnic groups –          To learn about the native knowledge system	–          Rare flora and fauna

 

14.2.2. Tourist facilities and description of where these are located and in which zone of the proposed biosphere reserve:

 

14.2.3. Indicate positive and/or negative impacts of tourism at present or foreseen:

 

Positive impact: Tourism can provide a valuable source of supplementary income to rural communities. This may reduce their dependence on timber and other natural resources taken from the national park. However, the direct financial benefits of tourism are only likely to significantly affect a few households. More importantly, the presence of tourists in the national park may increase the appreciation of local communities for their environment and provide an incentive for them to protect the forest.

Negative impact: Although tourism has the potential to bring benefits to the environment and local communities alike, there exists the possibility of negative impacts. In some areas of Vietnam, uncontrolled development of cultural tourism threatens to degrade the local culture. The development of cultural tourism would require careful planning and implementation by the National Park authorities to ensure the benefits were felt by the local communities as well as by the National Park

Benefits of economic activities to local people

Pu Hoat and Pu Huong Nature Reserves and Pu Mat National Park cover total area of approximately 500,000 ha including the core zone and buffer zone, population of 200,000 people, with the value of landscape and resource, human culture character – the realistic basis for development following the objective of “Man and Biosphere” progamme. Recently, the government has decided to build hydroelectric plant project in Nam Non river (center of O Du territory), namely, Ban Ve hydroelectric plant. It will be started in early 2006 and fished in 2010, covering an area of 4,500 ha water surface, an output of 75.5 MW. This project will contribute to impulse the development of economy for the entire region.

The potential of traditional human culture, natural landscape and resource, large-scale projects in the future which are feasible conditions for establishing a sustainable development area, among them, social and natural factors actively impact each other fostering this process.

Research and monitoring

15.1.1. To what extent has the past and planned research and monitoring programme been designed to address specific management questions in the potential biosphere reserve?

(For example, to identify areas needing strict protection as core areas, or to determine causes of and means to halt soil erosion, etc.).

–          Studying and overseeing “abiotic” [climatology, hydrography, geomorphology,…]

–          Project “Improving facilities and strengthening capacity”, which was financed by Vietnamese Government.

–          Studying and overseeing “biotic” [florea and fauna]

–          Project “Social Forestry and Nature Conservation in Nghe An Province” (SFNC): ALA/VIE/94/24, which was funded by EC and the Vietnamese Government in Pu Mat National Park.

–          Project “Enhancing knowledge and strengthening capacity of local leaders and community members to preserve rare and endangered plants in the buffer zone of the Reserve”, which was funded by SNV and undertaken during May and December in 2003.

–          Project “Preserving forest and managing watershed in some communes in the buffer zone”, which was funded DANIDA during 2002 and 2006. Project activities have concentrated on efforts to establish forest animal conservation club, training local managers, planting forest, providing micro credit and supporting agriculture production.

–          The 661 project “Managing and preserving natural forest in some buffer zone areas of the Reserve”, which was performed by state-owned forestry enterprises and management of the protective forest in the buffer zone.

–          On-going program “Allocating forestry land to communes in buffer zone”. 

–          Project “Studying biodiversity in Pu Hoat”, which was performed by a scientific cooperation program between Viet Nam Frontier and Biology Resource and Ecology Institute, National Technology and Science Institute in Viet Nam in 1999.

–          Studying Social economy [demography, economics and traditional knowledge,]

 

15.1.2. Brief description of past research and/or monitoring activities

 

The Pu Mat National Park:

Field surveys of biodiversity of the National Park were conducted in two courses including May to October in 1998 and April to November in 1999 with participation of 55 scientists including Vietnamese scientists from Biology Resource and Ecology Institute, National Technology and Science Institute; School of  Natural Sciences, Ha Noi National University, Ha Noi University of Education, the Forest Inventory and Planning Institute, locally-based foreign specialists, international consultants, and taxonomists in Viet Nam, from UK and the USA and 17 the Pu Mat National Park staff.

 

–          Flora: Above 10,000 plant specimens were collected; 1,144 species have so far been confirmed by a team of 26 Vietnamese plant taxonomists; 26 vegetation plots were established.

–          Butterflies: 1,855 specimens were collected; 305 species were identified.

–          Moths: 83 species hawk moth and 11 emperor moth species were identified.

–          Amphibians and Reptiles: 23 species of Amphibians, 11 species of turtle, 12 species of lizards and 25 species of snakes.

–          Small mammals: Around 20 species of small mammals were identified. The classification process has not been completed. However, it can be said that this is a place that hosts the highest number of small mammal species in Indochina.

–          Bats: A total of 3,600 individuals were caught. At least 39 species of bats were identified. This place has one of the highest known bat biodiversity in Asia; therefore, this should attract highest level of international attention for bat conservation.

–          Large mammals: There were 42 large mammal species confirmed by the Pu Mat National Park. Photo-trapping were used extensively through 1998 and 1999 and 26 large mammal species were identified by this way, of which there are Panthera tigris, Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, Nesolagus sp, Muntiacus truongsonensis and Chrotogale awstoni. Populations of Asian Elephants Elephas maximus and Callosciurus inornatus can be the largest populations remaining in Viet Nam.

–          Birds: A total of 295 species of local and migratory birds were recorded.

–          Fish: 122 specimens of fish were collected, 51 fish species confirmed were in the National Park.

 

After the biodiversity survey results during 1998 and 1999 were announced, in 2001 further programmes were set up take actions to conserve species or populations, namely:

–          An 14-month investigation to formulate a project for tiger conservation, which was conducted by 4 scientists from the University of forestry, the Forest Inventory and Planning Institute and the Institute for Ecology and Biological Resources.

–          Study of distribution, ecology and solution for conserving Urcidae in the National Park, which was conducted for six months in 2002 (June – December).

–          A mammal survey was carried out during January 2001 and April 2002 by the scientific office in Pu Mat National Park from which 30 species of mammal were identified.

–          Study of biodiversity of regional mammals, people’s influence and solutions for conserving mammals in Pu Mat National Park, which were carried out by the scientific office of the National Park during March and July in 2003. 132 species of mammal were identified, and their distribution in the landscape was understood. Recommendations of solutions have been put forward to manage and develop these mammals.

–          Surveys of species composition, distribution patterns, and current situation of fishing in Pu Mat National Park and putting forward solutions to sustainable exploit and preserve the fish resource, which were conducted by two scientists from Ha Noi University of Education during June 26 and August 20 in 2002. From these surveys, 82 species of fish were identified with known distribution pattern. The surveys also discussed the risk to the local income source from fishing and recommended actions to sustain the fish resource.

–          A tortoise biodiversity survey in the National Park, which was carried out by scientists from Ha Noi University of Education in 2002. 15 species of tortoise were identified in the National Park.

 

Pu Huong Nature Reserve

–          A basic investigation about species composition, distribution and condition of regional bird in Pu Huong conducted in 2004 revealed that there are 129 species of bird. Previously, in 2000, Nguyen Cu had reported finding up to 176 species of bird here.

–          A study of ecology of the Pseudoryx nghetinhensis, Cervus unicolor and three species of Mang in Pu Huong Nature Reserve was conducted in February to July in 2004. This is a cooperation programme between Copenhagen Animal Museum in Denmark and the Zoology Center of Vinh University.

–          A survey of fish, amphibians and reptiles biodiversity was conducted by scientists from the Zoology Center of Vinh University in 2005. The survey reported findings of over 60 fish species, 26 species of amphibians, and 64 species of reptiles present in the reserve.

 

Pu Hoat Nature Reserve:

–          A biodiversity survey of the Reserve was conducted by Viet Nam Frontier in January to December in 1999.

–          FLorea: With a focus on the core zone, species Cunninghamia konishii and Fokienia hodginsii were detected.

–          Birds: 150 bird species were observed, of which many species were rare and endangered.

–          Mammals: The Forest Planning and Inventory Institute found 45 species of mammal (not including bats). Frontier only concentrated on surveying bats and detected 24 bat species of 5 different families.

–          Amphibians: 31 species of 5 families were identified. Biodiversity of Amphibian in Pu Hoat was higher than in other places in Viet Nam.

–          Insect: Butterflies: Classification had not completed but species were very many; Bombycid moth: there were 59 species preliminarily confirmed preliminarily these was a highly potential group; Ant: 53 species of 27 genera of 7 families were identified.

 

A sociology study was conducted by two specialists from Frontier organization including surveys of agriculture production and incomes, other income sources, land and forestland allocation, education and health. A survey of biodiversity of the Reserve was also conducted. Research results on the relationship between the National Park and the community are as follows:

 

–          The National Park establishment: 32% people interviewed thought it had not affected the local’s life, 26% viewed that it did have great influence, the rest thought it had little influence (16%) or expressed no comments. This indicates that most of the surveyors thought that the National Park establishment had influence on the local’s life.

–          77% people working in the related service providing sectors said that the relationship between the National Park and the community was good and very good, the rest said it was normal (10%) or had no comments, only very few interviewees said that this relationship is not good. All people, however, said that the National Park should maintain and promote good relationship with the local community since protecting and managing forest is not only the responsibility of the National Park management but also of the whole community. In this context, the community is a critical driving force and plays the most important role in forest management.

 

–          Role of public relations: Almost all interviewees said that public relation is very important because there are still people living in the National Park. Good public relations would help the local understands clearly the role of the National Park; also make them aware of the need for protecting the forest. This was particularly important since most of there is low literacy rate in the area. Good public relations should play the role of helping the local inhabitants change their behavior (for example illegal logging). And this should be combined with initiatives to provide opportunities for alternative livelihoods apart from dependence on forest exploitation for the local people.

 

–          Delivery of Public Relations: The main methods for delivery of public relations have been usually traditional propaganda with messages conveyed to the local being: “don’t slash and burn improperly”, “don’t hunt wild animals”, “and don’t exploit wood” etc. Perception of the local about this aspect was better this time with 63% of the interviewees said delivery of public relations was good. However this work was still limited due to lack of manpower, resources and sometimes, since the ways of information and communication was not professional and appropriate enough, impact of the messages has been low still.

 

15.1.3. Estimated number of national scientists participating in research within the proposed biosphere reserve on

 

• A permanent basis: _______8________

 

• An occasional basis: ______25____

 

15.1.4. Estimated number of foreign scientists participating in research within the proposed Biosphere Reserve on

 

• A permanent basis: ______5__________

 

• An occasional basis: _______15_______

 

15.1.5. Estimated number of masters and/or doctoral theses carried out on the proposed biosphere reserve each year: 6 masters’ theses

 

15.1.6. Research station(s) within the proposed Biosphere Reserve:

 

The present main office site will be developed into the main research station, which will have facilities to house researchers and research equipment. The other research sites will be upgraded to comply with future research needs. A total of about eight research sites are planned to provide the necessary data to effectively manage the whole biosphere as a single unit. Steps will be taken to ensure that future developments and proposals will take into account the status of this reserve and the approved permits will respect the new status and management policies of the reserve.

 

15.1.7. Permanent research station(s) outside the proposed Biosphere Reserve:

 

[If no permanent research station exists within the proposed Biosphere Reserve, indicate the location, distance to the core area, name and address of the most relevant research station]

 

15.1.8. Permanent monitoring plots

 

[Indicate the year established, the objective of monitoring, the type and frequency of observations and measurements, and whether an internationally recognized protocol is being used, for example the Smithsonian-MAB MAPMON protocol for monitoring forest biodiversity]:

 

Staff and Capacity building: The present research staff and personnel will be maintained and will continue with the current research and monitoring actives. As to future requirements, the Research and Monitoring Unit will train existing staff to upgrade their skills. New staff will be recruited or commissioned (as to the availability of funding) in areas where there is a shortage of expertise.

 

Research Components: Research will be actively carried out in the socio-economic requirements of the Biosphere Reserve. Preference will be given to areas, which will have a direct and positive enhancement of the social economic standards of the household participants and/or increase of renewable economically valuable resources.

15.1.9. Research facilities of research station(s)

 

[Meteorological and/or hydrological station, experimental plots, laboratory, computerized databases, Geographical Information System, library, vehicles, etc.]:

 

Research stations are equipped with a computer lab appropriate means of transport (cars, motorbikes, moto-boats)

 

15.1.10. Other facilities

 

[e.g. facilities for lodging or for overnight accommodation for scientists etc.]:

At present, there are headquarters of the Management Board, bird observation stations, Forestry Guard stations, and Civil Defence groups in the each core zone of the proposed western Nghe An Biosphere Reserve. Each station is equipped with information system, electricity and water systems, and other facilities.

15.1.11. Does the proposed biosphere reserve have an Internet connection?

 

 The proposed biosphere reserve has an Internet connection.

Environmental education and public awareness

The management board has collaborated with local authorities and a Youth Union to organize environmental and sustainable development education activities for local people (especially concerning the role of forests in the maintenance of biodiversity and local economy and the protection of rare flora and fauna). Pu Mat National Park carried out to communicate environmental education to 54 high schools and 111 villages within National Park. Pu Hoat Nature Reserve communicated environmental education at Tien Phong High School.   15.2.1 Describe environmental education and public awareness activities, indicating the target group(s):   The management board has collaborated with local authorities and a Youth Union to promote local awareness on environmental education with cultural activities and festivals. Children, adolescents and young adults are particularly targeted groups. The activities promoted included   15.2.2. Indicate facilities for environmental education and public awareness activities [visitors’ centre; interpretative programs for visitors and tourists; nature trails; ecomuseum demonstration projects on sustainable use of natural resources]:   The management board had slogans, especially flora-fauna museum in which to show the specimen as well as educate in environmental protection.

 Potential to contribute to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves

Internet connections create good opportunities to exchange scientific research information, to report research and conservation activities and to learn from the experiences of other Biosphere Reserves around the world.

Specialist training

Officers and management staff has been attending training courses, which are organized by the Forestry Department, as well as attending the workshops in order to exchange the experience with the other National Parks.

Core Area

Describe the uses and activities occurring within the core area(s):   –          While the 3 core zones of the proposed biosphere reserve are intended to be strictly protected, some activities may be allowed in order to raise income for local people and develop economic activities such as eco-tourism, cultural tourism…. –          Allowed activities in the core area will concentrate on continued research and training of environmental education groups. –          Possible adverse effects on the core areas of users or activities occurring outside the core areas. No adverse effects are foreseen in the next decade.

Buffer zone(s)

16.2.1 Describe the main land uses and economic activities in the buffer zone(s):   [Buffer zones may support a variety of uses, which promote the multiple functions of a Biosphere Reserve while helping to ensure the protection and natural evolution of the core area(s).]   –          The buffer zones have been selected because of their moderate levels of habitation and economic development, Ex: research and education activities, agriculture, rearing of livestock and eco-tourism development.   –          Possible adverse effect on the buffer zones of uses or activities occurring within or outside the buffer zones. The activities associated with the buffer zone will need supervision to reduce the adverse effects on the buffer zone and core areas.   16.2.2. Possible adverse effects on the buffer zone(s) of uses or activities occurring within or outside the buffer zone(s)in the near and longer terms:   The activities associated with the buffer zone will need supervision, otherwise ecosystem function may be affected and environmental pollution may occur.

Transition area

The transition areas are far more developed than either the core areas or the buffer zones. They include rural areas, agricultural land, abandoned land, plantations and roads. It is clear that many activities may have adverse effects on these areas such as pollution, topsoil erosion, and habitat loss. With proper management these effects can be mitigated to a level that ensures the future sustainable development of these areas.

 

16.3.1 Describe the main land uses and major economic activities in the transition area(s):

Social and cultural activities take place in this zone as well as sustainable development. Local people have established agricultural plots, plantations and small settlements.

 

16.3.2 Possible adverse effects of uses or activities on the transition area(s):

Environmental pollution, exhaustion of resources and overpopulation may occur unless relevant departments develop an appropriate management plan.

 

State, province, region or other administrative units

–          Main features of land use and management plan: In order to choose the most appropriate land uses in the transition zone, People’s Committees of Nghe An province has been building the basic information on land use planning, such as detailed soil surveys, current land uses and socio-economic activities.

 

–          Main features of land use and management plan: Department of Environment and Natural Resource and Department of Agriculture and Rural Development under the guidance of People’s Committees of Nghe An province have to monitor and acquire an understanding of community dynamics and what their priority needs and problems are.

Personnel

Management board of the proposed biosphere reserve consists of 15 members

 

17.7.2. Number of staff for administrative and resource management:

 

· Permanent: ____22_______

 

· Part-time: _____0_______

 

17.7.3. Number of national staff for research:

 

· Permanent: ____15________

 

· Part-time: ______0______

 

17.7.3. Number of technical support staff:

 

· Permanent: _____300_______

· Part-time: _0_

Financial source(s) and yearly budget

The relative percentage of funding for addressing interrelated environmental, land use and socio-economic development problems is:

–          From national: 40

–          Regional/Provincial: 20

–          Local administrations/District: 20

–          Private funding: 0

–          International sources etc: 20 

Authority in charge of administration

People’s Committees of Nghe An province.

–          People’s Committees of  Anh Son, Con Cuong, Tuong Duong, Quy Chau, Quy Hop, Que Phong, Ky Son, Thanh Chuong, Tan Ky districts.

–          Management board of Pumat National Park.

–          Management board of Pu Huong and Pu Hoat Nature Reserves

Local organizational arrangements

The coordination will be based on both an administrative system and individual contacts

 

17.10.1. Indicate how and to what extent the local communities living within and next to the proposed biosphere reserve have been associated with the nomination process (For example through public hearings, participation of local authorities at preparatory meetings, etc)

 

The local communities living within and close to the proposed biosphere reserve have been associated with the nomination process through public meetings, education campaigns and participation of local authorities at preparatory meetings.

17.10.2. Indicate how and to what extent the local communities can participate in the formulation and the implementation of the management plan or land use policy:

 

The local communities can participate in the formulation and implementation of the management plan or land use policy through stakeholder meetings organized by the coordination system headed by the coordinator.