Research has highlighted threatened Gaur (wild cattle) populations in Quang Binh and Quang Tri provinces. The key threats are habitat loss and heavy hunting pressure. Initial surveys in Xuan Trach, in-between two protected areas, will develop a training course and survey manual for Gaur, in collaboration with local forest users and rangers.

The manual will focus on survey techniques, especially track identification, monitoring, interview techniques, camera trapping, survey design and report writing. The Xuan Trach pilot will lead to replication within Quang Binh and in Quang Tri. A final workshop, based on survey results, will develop a comprehensive programme of Gaur conservation in Central Vietnam.