Protecting and Restoring Marine Resources and Ecosystems
The People’s Committee of Lam Dong Province has issued a directive requesting departments, local authorities, and Phu Quy Special Zone to strengthen marine conservation, protect and restore fishery resources, and preserve marine ecosystems within the province.
Provincial authorities emphasized the importance of natural resources, fishery stocks, and biodiversity for the sustainable development of marine-based economic sectors.
Accordingly, the Department of Agriculture and Environment will take the lead in:
* Developing a sustainable financial mechanism for marine protected areas (MPAs);
* Implementing the project “Community-Based Sustainable Ecotourism Development at Hon Cau Marine Protected Area”;
* Directing the provincial fisheries surveillance force to coordinate with Hon Cau MPA Management Board in patrolling, monitoring, and handling legal violations related to marine conservation.
The province is determined to prevent any encroachment, environmental pollution, or illegal exploitation activities within protected marine zones. The department is also tasked with advising the provincial government on assigning management responsibilities for the Ham Thuan Nam – La Gi Fishery Resource Protection Area, as well as developing management regulations and operational plans for the site.
Meanwhile, relevant departments must closely supervise investment projects to ensure no activities cause harm to marine ecosystems. Any project threatening marine biodiversity will be suspended or denied approval.
Coastal communes, wards, and Phu Quy Special Zone are urged to intensify public communication and legal education to raise awareness and responsibility among local residents and businesses. The province also encourages community participation in marine protection efforts and promotes the annual movement “All People Participate in Protecting and Restoring Fishery Resources.”
Lam Dong boasts a 192-kilometer coastline and an internal marine area of over 20,000 square kilometers, connecting to the Southeast region and East Truong Sa waters. Phu Quy Island, located 56 nautical miles offshore, serves as one of Vietnam’s frontier islands. The Hon Cau Marine Protected Area in Lien Huong Commune, covers 12,500 hectares and is among 16 marine protected areas designated in Vietnam’s national conservation system.