Nguyen Van Thinh
The aim of this study is thus to describe patterns of forest succession from early stages to mature forests in different time chronosequence following shifting cultivation in the ecological restoration. The diversity and population density of all tree species will be assessed in three sites which are forest stands of 0-26 -year-old fallows. This study will provide information on diversity, richness and sustainable management of woody tree species producing valuable non-timber products after shifting cultivation. This information could contribute to the understanding of local people in terms of rural development, poverty reduction, the local inhabitant’s health and wealth, and food security. In addition, it will be useful to plan conservation strategies and management practice for a sustainable use of forest resources in restoration zone of the park.
Elderly man participating in meeting.
Location and natural areas:
Ben En National Park was established for the protection of fauna in 1979 and as a nature reserve in 1986. Around 26% of the total forestland in the buffer zone is managed by local people. This land consists of 2,600 ha (8.4%) of secondary 114 forest and poor forest lands, about 2,300 ha of bare land (with some small trees and shrubs), 443 ha of plantation forest and approximately 2,500 ha (about 8%) of agricultural land. The park has a total area of approximately 16,600 ha and is divided into the following zones:
1. Strictly-protected zone, declared so as to maintain the ecosystems and diversity of wildlife and plant species;
2. Ecological restoration zone, to rehabilitate strongly disturbed ecosystems; and
3. Administrative and tourism zone, which consists of the main office, the Forest Protection Department office, and the Tourism Services Centre.
Population:
The total population in 2009 of both the core and buffer zones of the park was approximately 26,600 people belonging to four main ethnic groups (Kinh ≈ 52%; Thai ≈ 22%; Muong ≈ 17% and Tho ≈ 8.5%). The average population density in the buffer zone is approximately 230 people per km2, unevenly distributed: most people live along the main road, as the majority of local people have settled near the park. As a result, local people’s livelihood activities have noticeably impacted forest resources. It, therefore, is necessary to apply synchronized and coordinated measures in order to improve the socio-economic situation for local communities, teach the sustainable usage of forest resources, and raise awareness for nature conservation.
Climate and topography:
Data recorded over a 10-year period (2002-2011) indicate that the mean temperature is highest (28 - 29°C) between Jun e and August and lowest in January and December (16 and 18°C, respectively). The heaviest rainfall occurs between the months of July and October. Mean monthly rainfall is below 17 mm in February and reaches 358 mm in September and the mean annual rainfall is 1,600 mm. The park is situated in a region of low-lying hills surrounding Ben En Lake, which is 50 m above sea level and covers slightly less than 2,300 hectares. Altitude in the park varies from 20 to 500 m, but most areas are below 200 m.