Cam Thanh nipa palm forest

The nipa palm forest is a buffer zone of Cu Lao Cham- Hoi An World Biosphere Reserve with special cultural and historical values, and rich natural resources.

However, it was used for different purposes, serving the locals’ livelihood during 30 years (from 1980 to 2010).

Since 2010, the Cam Thanh nipa palm forest has been replanted via the donation of non-governmental organisations.

At the same time, the Quang Nam provincial People’s Committee has also spent a lot of money replanting and restoring the forest in order to regenerate and develop it, upgrading the infrastructure for community ecotourism development.

Several measures for the nipa palm forest conservation and growth have been implemented, so the forest is now covering an area of 120 hectares.

It helps to cope with climate change, prevent soil erosion and saltwater intrusion. The forest is also a place for boats to shelter from storms.

The Cam Thanh nipa palm forest has become one of the well-known tourist attractions in Hoi An and Quang Nam. So, local residents have got stable jobs and high incomes.

The Management Board of Cu Lao Cham - Hoi An World Biosphere Reserve suggested setting up a community conservation area in Cam Thanh commune to preserve and develop the Cam Thanh nipa palm forest.

Then, they will make an application to UNESCO for the recognition of the Cam Thanh nipa palm forest as the second core area in the biosphere reserve.

The forest will be preserved sustainably and the locals’ livelihood will be improved.