The research, proposed by the Department of Agriculture and Environment, is expected to span 12 months, from 2026 to 2027.

Hundreds of hectares of U Minh Ha cajuput forest are degraded, fallen, and dead. Photo: Chuc Ly

Approximately 300 hectares of cajuput forest within U Minh Ha National Park are severely degraded, with many trees dead or fallen. An additional 400 hectares face a risk of further decline if adverse conditions persist.

According to the U Minh Ha National Park Management Board, this issue has been observed for about 10 years, primarily in sub-zones 1 and 3. Initial assessments suggest the degradation stems from the forest's age, hydrological fluctuations, and prolonged flooding on peat soil.

Many low-lying areas remain submerged for more than six months annually, making it difficult for cajuput trees to regenerate. During the dry season, the peat layer loses its cohesion, increasing the risk of trees uprooting and falling.

The Chairman of the provincial People's Committee has tasked U Minh Ha National Park with leading the project implementation, coordinating with the research team, and overseeing activities according to regulations. The core objective is to determine the causes of widespread cajuput tree degradation, falling, and death observed recently.

The Department of Agriculture and Environment will continue to monitor and guide relevant units in completing legal procedures, ensuring the research aligns with conservation objectives and the local conditions.

U Minh Ha National Park holds significant ecological importance as one of the three crucial wetland conservation areas in the Mekong Delta. It also forms the core zone of the Mui Ca Mau World Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO. The core area spans over 8,500 hectares, encompassing about 2,500 hectares of cajuput forest on peat soil within the conservation subdivision and more than 5,190 hectares designated for the restoration and sustainable use of the wetland ecosystem.

Chuc Ly