UPDATING THE DONG NAI FLORA CHECKLIST: SAFEGUARDING FORESTS, BIODIVERSITY VALUES, AND WATER SECURITY

In 2025–2026, the Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD) and the Dong Nai Culture–Nature Reserve will survey and update the flora checklist, focusing on the distribution of rare and valuable timber species.

Using seasonal surveys, transects/standard plots, and a voucher set of specimens - photos - GPS, the team will determine species composition and the level of plant community diversity.

Results will delineate critical habitats and identify priority species for mother-tree protection, seed collection, native nursery production, and restoration of depleted taxa; in parallel with the checklist update, the team will collect additional representative vouchers for scientific reference, exhibits, and education–awareness at the reserve.

In addition, CCD is implementing key conservation programs in Dong Nai: monitoring threatened fauna in Cat Tien National Park; restoring valuable timber species such as Dalbergia oliveri and Siamese rosewood (Dalbergia cochinchinensis) within the Reserve; and strengthening the two management boards’ capacity on patrolling, forest protection, and ecotourism.

The Dong Nai Culture–Nature Reserve (>100,000 ha), adjacent to Cat Tien National Park, is among the remaining primary forest ecosystems of Southeastern Vietnam and a vital headwater forest of the Dong Nai River system. Safeguarding Dong Nai’s forests is preserving the core values of the Southeast region—a priceless natural heritage for today and for generations to come.