Kicker: The expansion of the Đồng Tháp Mười Ecological Reserve will be carried out in two phases. VNA Photo

TIỀN GIANG - In order to effectively conserve biodiversity while promoting the development of tourism in the Đồng Tháp Mười sub-region, Tiền Giang province has proposed to expand the Đồng Tháp Mười Ecological Reserve in Tân Phước district’s Thạnh Tân commune.

Accordingly, along with the existing core area of nearly 107 hectares, the province will expand an additional buffer zone of 244 hectares.

The expansion of the Đồng Tháp Mười Ecological Reserve will be carried out in two phases.

In the first phase, during 2024 and 2025, the province will reclaim 60 hectares for afforestation and expansion of the existing reserve, including 30 hectares in the north and 30 hectares in the south of the reserve.

In the second phase, from 2026 to 2030, the province will expand the remaining area based on a suitable plan according to the local economic and social development.

According to the Chairman of the Tân Phước District People's Committee, Trần Hoàng Phong, relevant authorities are seeking investment for the development of eco-tourism in the Đồng Tháp Mười sub-region, with the Đồng Tháp Mười Ecological Reserve being one of the attractive tourist destinations.

This area has great advantages and potential for developing eco-tourism, providing jobs and increasing incomes for rural labourers, Phong said.

The local area has invested in various infrastructure projects to serve the development of eco-tourism, such as boat and vehicle docks, rest stops, ferry bridges, internal roads, bird observation towers and scenic viewpoints within the reserve.

The district continues to improve its waterway and road transportation infrastructure, connecting with other areas in the Đồng Tháp Mười sub-region and inviting investors for tourism development projects.

These activities are aimed at both conserving the unique ecosystem of Đồng Tháp Mười and serving the needs of tourism, research and development to attract domestic and international tourists, Phong emphasised.

Previously, in 2000, to conserve rare and endangered species, protect the ecological environment, and develop tourism, the provincial People's Committee established the Đồng Tháp Mười Ecological Reserve.

The reserve is located in Thạnh Tân commune, Tân Phước district, with a total area of nearly 107 hectares, including a central water pond of about one hectare, while the remaining area is used for planting and nurturing unique species that need conservation.

Phong said that the reserve's mission is to conserve the characteristic fauna and flora of the Đồng Tháp Mười region, as well as conduct research, manage, protect, and restore the salt water mangrove forest ecosystem, forest habitats, precious gene sources, and a number of endangered species.

Over the past 23 years since its establishment, the Đồng Tháp Mười Ecological Reserve has become home to over 12,000 resident birds, including many rare species listed in Việt Nam and the world's Red Book, such as Sarus Crane, Asian Openbill, and Lesser Adjutant.

The reserve also houses eight species of fish, 19 species of reptiles, 16 species of mammals, and 36 species of birds, along with over 6,000 indigenous trees including bamboo, reeds, mangroves, and sugar apples, creating the green lungs of the entire region.

In reality, due to the increasing number of birds residing, nesting, and breeding, the existing mangrove forest area is no longer sufficient.

Therefore, the expansion of the Đồng Tháp Mười Ecological Reserve is highly necessary to meet the needs of conservation and sustainable development of eco-tourism in the Đồng Tháp Mười sub-region. - VNS