SEEDS OF SUSTAINABLE FOREST RESTORATION IN QUANG TRI AND DONG NAI

As part of efforts to conserve biodiversity and sustainably restore forest ecosystems in Vietnam, plant nurseries play a vital role in providing high-quality seedlings for reforestation and ecosystem recovery efforts - especially for endangered plant species. However, in practice, native endangered species are often not prioritized for propagation due to limited market demand and their lack of short-term economic value.

To address this challenge and proactively secure seedling sources for conservation and ecosystem restoration, Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD) has established and maintained two nurseries for endangered native tree species in Quang Tri and Dong Nai provinces. These nurseries are currently cultivating and caring for highly threatened timber species, including at least 14,000 Dalbergia cochinchinensis, 8,000 Dalbergia oliveri, and a projected 2,000 Pterocarpus macrocarpus seedlings. The seedlings are nurtured directly by local community members who have participated in the CCD-organized training course on “Techniques for Establishing and Managing Community Nurseries of Native Timber Species.”

Enriching forests with native species offers long-term ecological benefits: enhancing forest resilience, conserving the genetic resources of valuable timber species, and helping restore ecosystem structure and habitats for wildlife. This initiative not only helps preserve and promote indigenous knowledge but also provides sustainable livelihoods for local communities - key stakeholders in Vietnam’s forest restoration journey.

Moving forward, CCD will continue to provide technical support to ensure seedling propagation and care processes are carried out methodically, with timely detection and treatment of pests and diseases, thereby ensuring high-quality seedlings ready for outplanting in the wild.