A masterpiece of natural fortifications.

Updated on: 20/01/2024 06:22:10

The Đồng Tháp Mười area, spanning three provinces – Đồng Tháp, Long An, and Tiền Giang – was once considered the heart of the flood zone, receiving the floodwaters that surged from the upper Mekong River every year. Nature transformed this area into a swamp, a kingdom of unique flora and fauna thriving on acidic soil. This region is home to dense forests of native Vietnamese Melaleuca alternifolia (also known as Melaleuca alternifolia) and rows of Terminalia catappa trees growing spontaneously in the harsh soil. This demonstrates the strong survival instincts of these species in their natural habitat, resilient to any changing weather conditions.

The pristine nature of the Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Reserve.

Thanks to planning efforts and investment in irrigation systems in 1976, after nearly half a century, this remote, uninhabited area has undergone a spectacular transformation, becoming a fertile and prosperous land, a cornerstone for agricultural development. The Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Reserve now needs a transformation and renovation to gain a new identity, and "ecotourism" seems to be an urgent mission.

"Quang Tram Ancient Citadel" - Dong Thap Muoi Ecotourism and Conservation Area

Considered the heart of the entire region (Long An, Dong Thap, Tien Giang), the ecological reserve in Tan Phuoc district, Tien Giang province, is a place that preserves the wonders of nature. With the most diverse and dense ecosystem in the Mekong Delta, primarily consisting of melaleuca trees, it truly is the green lung of the land along the Tien River.

With its natural setting surrounded by a system of moats and an extensive network of internal canals, the area boasts a unique architecture, resembling a natural "medieval capital." In the past, opulent fortress architecture always adhered to three standards: a logical, square design, a location bordering water like a natural defensive moat, and a south-facing orientation to optimize feng shui. Today, the Dong Thap Muoi Ecotourism and Conservation Area not only meets these three criteria but also surpasses all standards of beauty.

Satellite image

In the first year after liberation, the Dong Thap Muoi Ecotourism and Conservation Area received management and improvement from the local government and relevant agencies, with clearly defined areas from the periphery to the center. The ecological density here has steadily increased, becoming home to over 156 plant species, 147 bird species, 34 fish species, 8 amphibian species, and 30 insect species, including many extremely rare species such as the red-crowned crane. The return of migratory animals annually demonstrates that the natural environment here remains intact, creating ideal conditions for maintaining pristine ecosystems.

On a beautiful day, imagine the magical and poetic feeling of sitting in a kayak slowly drifting along the canals filled with blooming lotus flowers. Soon, the Dong Thap Muoi Ecotourism and Conservation Area will receive significant investment from a leading ecotourism corporation in the Mekong Delta, joining forces with the Management Board to create a crucial turning point in the area's development.

Balancing economic and environmental goals.

By promoting economic development alongside environmental conservation, Dong Thap Muoi is currently a prime example of sustainable development. Smart agriculture, utilizing high technology and clean production practices, has helped improve people's lives and enhance food self-sufficiency for the entire country.

Ecotourism activities are also widely promoted, attracting both domestic and international tourists. The service system is developing strongly, providing experiences of living close to nature, while creating a stable source of income for local people. Moreover, maintaining biodiversity helps strengthen valuable genetic resources for conservation scientific research.

Expected to be recognized as a special destination similar to Tra Su or Tram Chim, the Dong Thap Muoi Ecotourism and Conservation Area is not only the pride of the three provinces of Long An, Dong Thap, and Tien Giang, but also a symbol of harmony between the universal ideal and cultural space, a place that preserves and promotes traditional values, while creating opportunities for international understanding and cooperation on environmental issues.

The Dong Thap Muoi Nature Reserve and Ecotourism Area will be incredibly lively in the next few days! Attractive tours around the moat will be offered, promoting professional, eco-friendly tourism and aiming for a new set of goals.

An enlightened mindset, shaped by experienced investors, will quickly transform an original conservation area into a "dual-use" zone, incorporating many innovative elements. The Conservation and Ecotourism Area is truly remarkable in Tien Giang province and is spreading to Dong Thap and Long An provinces.

Bach Anh

Source: https://baodongthap.vn/kinh-te/kiet-tac-thanh-luy-tu-nhien-119746.aspx