Mangrove restoration in Vietnam

Abstract

In Vietnam mangrove rehabilitation has a long history and gained momentum after the war that destroyed huge forested areas, especially in the Mekong Delta. In addition, in various places mangrove have been and still are being planted specifically as a way to protect shorelines and sea-dykes from wave attack. The success of such projects highly depends on using the ecological knowledge describing the physical conditions under which mangroves thrive. The aim of this report is to provide in a nutshell the key considerations for a successful mangrove rehabilitation or planting project. It can be used as a practical guide to the planning of these projects. Despite the many projects worldwide on mangrove restoration, there is a considerable shortage on documented evidences of their long term success. Recent studies from several countries show that the survival rate of young mangrove stands in rehabilitation projects is varied but sometimes extremely low. One of the main reasons for failure is that mangroves are planted in the wrong location, e.g. on lower intertidal mudflats or even subtidal zones (unsuitable for all species) or on sandy substrates of exposed coastlines where most mangrove species do not thrive. Of utmost importance for success is the combination of proper site selection and choice of the right mangrove species. Besides ecological and engineering issues, rehabilitation also involves important socioeconomic considerations. Local ownership and effective community participation are often crucial to achieve sustainable impacts.