Preserving genetic resources and unlocking the potential of ecotourism.

The Muong Nha Nature Reserve aims to conserve biodiversity, develop native plant species, explore ecotourism, and promote sustainable development linked to forest protection.

In the first six months of 2026, the Management Board of the Muong Nha Nature Reserve in Dien Bien province implemented a comprehensive set of tasks related to nature conservation, the development of rare plant genetic resources, and the survey of ecotourism potential. These initial results not only contribute to the protection of forest resources but also create sustainable livelihoods linked to conservation for people in the buffer zone.

One of the key tasks being implemented by the unit is building a database to support biodiversity conservation. Accordingly, the Management Board has completed the selection of a consulting contractor to prepare the technical outline and cost estimate for the construction of an image-based handbook and digital database on endangered, rare, endemic, and characteristic plant species in the Muong Nha Nature Reserve. Currently, the professional content is being implemented according to plan.

Vast green forests in the Muong Nha Nature Reserve. Photo: Muong Nha Forest Ranger Station.

Digitizing data on endangered and rare plant species not only improves management efficiency but also creates a scientific foundation for long-term conservation efforts.

In addition to focusing on conservation, the unit's nursery continues to maintain activities related to seed development. Currently, the Management Board is caring for and monitoring the growth of 500 seedlings of *Gmelina arborea*, 950 seedlings of *Dipterocarpus macrophyllus*, 225 seedlings of *Rhizoma Polygonati* (white and red), and 200 seedlings of *Rhizoma Polygonati*. Furthermore, many other native forestry and medicinal plant species are also being managed and conserved.

These nurseries are crucial for forest ecosystem restoration, conservation of native genetic resources, and sustainable forestry development. Maintaining these nurseries not only contributes to the protection of biological resources but also facilitates research and propagation of valuable tree species in the future.

Mr. Diep Van Chinh, Director of the Muong Nha Nature Reserve Management Board, said: The unit is continuing to monitor and care for forestry and medicinal plant species in the nursery to ensure the quality of seed sources for forest conservation and development in the coming years.

Forest patrols and protection activities are regularly carried out by the Muong Nha Nature Reserve to safeguard the ecosystem and biodiversity. Photo: Muong Nha Commune.

Along with nature conservation and seed development, the survey of ecotourism potential has also been intensified. The unit has organized assessments of areas with outstanding natural landscape, biodiversity, and forest environment values ​​to build a database to serve the orientation of ecotourism development.

Initial surveys have identified several potential locations. Among them, the Nam Ke Dragon Waterfall area (Sub-area 168B, Plot 6) has a survey route approximately 10.5km long, passing through a cluster of naturally growing Dipterocarpus trees and a characteristic forest ecosystem. The area of ​​the seven-tiered waterfall combined with the Dragon Waterfall, located in Muong Nha and Nam Ke communes, possesses pristine landscapes suitable for developing nature-based experiential tourism.

In addition, the route from the Management Board Headquarters to Milestone 66 and the Dipterocarpus forest in Muong Nha commune is considered to have many advantages for developing ecotourism combined with environmental education and scientific research. The Da Tu waterfall area in Sin Thau commune is also identified as a destination with great potential thanks to its pristine natural landscape and values ​​associated with the forest ecosystem.

Young people experience and explore nature in Muong Nha, a destination with great potential for ecotourism development. Photo: Hung Muong Nha.

In practice, nature conservation and ecotourism development are two mutually reinforcing tasks, both aiming for sustainable development. When properly planned and managed, the values ​​of biodiversity, landscapes, and indigenous genetic resources will become important resources for green economic development.

The results achieved in the first six months of 2026 show that the Muong Nha Nature Reserve is gradually realizing its goal of conservation linked to development. From preserving genetic resources and building a biodiversity database to surveying ecotourism routes and destinations, these activities are creating an important foundation for forest resource management and sustainable development in the future.

Source: https://nongnghiepmoitruong.vn/bao-ton-nguon-gen-khai-mo-tiem-nang-du-lich-sinh-thai-d814441.html