Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Conservation Area Poised to Become Premier Attraction

The sightseeing region within the Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Conservation Area serves as a beckoning call from nature itself, enticing visitors in pursuit of tranquility and mental repose.

Inaugurated in 1999, the Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Conservation Area spans over 100 hectares of core area and an additional 1,800 hectares of buffer zone. This expanse was specifically designated to protect and preserve the unique landscape, endemic flora and fauna of Dong Thap Muoi, also known as the Plain of Reeds. The ecological reserve is often referred to as a dual heritage due to its rich and almost untouched ecosystem resources, which are particularly distinctive of the “alum pocket - flood navel” in the South.

A representative for the Management Board of the Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Conservation Area revealed that, based on comprehensive studies, surveys and statistics, the ecological reserve is a sanctuary for 156 plant species, 147 bird species, 34 fish species, eight amphibian species and 30 insect species.

The conservation area has made significant investments in infrastructure, including internal roads, canals, administrative buildings, and protective fences. These enhancements foster a natural and entirely isolated habitat for the resident flora and fauna to thrive. In particular, measures have been implemented to prevent destructive human fishing practices that could lead to the loss of rare plant and animal genetic resources. The board actively promotes the recovery of endemic natural resources in Dong Thap Muoi. As part of future plans, Tien Giang province intends to further invest in expanding the area by an additional 124 hectares.

A stringent protection policy coupled with a serene, safe and favorable environment are the key factors that draw an increasing number of waterbirds to the Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Conservation Area. The area is particularly popular among stork families. Recently, the reserve has seen an influx of rare bird species that are listed in the Vietnam Red Book. Notably, the painted stork, a large waterbird, has chosen to reside, nest and reproduce within the reserve.

Venturing by boat along the canals into the strictly protected central area reveals the richness of the precious flora and fauna that inhabit it. Storks, herons and painted storks can be observed nesting on a variety of trees including melaleuca, banyan, elaeocarpaceae, black plums and burflower trees.

Beneath the water’s surface, schools of fish of varying sizes can be seen noisily feeding together, snapping at baits under clusters of water hyacinth and blooming purple lotus flowers. The surrounding bushes serve as a habitat for reptiles and amphibians, including rare cobras. In the distance, under the canopy of ancient trees, one can spot the large nests of wasps.

The Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Conservation Area, with its stunning natural landscapes, serves as a sanctuary for numerous precious and endemic species native to the Dong Thap Muoi region. Its inherent uniqueness and substantial eco-tourism potential are being harnessed by a premier tourism brand in Dong Thap province.

The Dong Thap Tourism Joint Stock Company is infusing a fresh vitality into the reserve. The establishment of a sightseeing area, complete with comprehensive transportation facilities and friendly, approachable tour guides, offers visitors an opportunity to experience the wonders nestled within the heart of the melaleuca forest.

Undoubtedly, the sightseeing region within the Dong Thap Muoi Ecological Conservation Area is poised to become a premier attraction on the Tien Giang tourism map. Furthermore, it is set to play a pivotal role in the collaborative tourism development efforts of Tien Giang, Long An, Dong Thap and Ho Chi Minh City in the Dong Thap Muoi region.                                                                                                     

By Tran Sang, Vietnam Business Forum