Expanding co-management to protect fisheries resources in Lam Dong

A co-management project in Phu Quy Special Zone (Lam Dong Province) is helping protect fisheries resources, promote sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen community participation in marine resource management.

On the afternoon of July 15, the Lam Dong Provincial Farmers' Union, in coordination with the People's Committee of Phu Quy Special Zone, held a mid-term review conference for the project titled "Expanding Co-management Areas and Piloting Sustainable Community Livelihoods to Enhance Fisheries Resource Protection in Lam Dong Province."

Launched in early 2026 in Tan Thanh Commune and Phu Quy Special Zone, the project is supported by the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF/SGP) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), according to Lam Dong Newspaper.

After more than six months of implementation, the project has organized a series of training courses on responsible fisheries, sustainable fishing practices, community governance, and community-based tourism. Community organizations have also received equipment to support patrols, monitoring, and fisheries resource management.

In Phu Quy Special Zone, the project supported the establishment of the Lach Du Fisheries Resource Protection Co-management Group, which oversees a 27-hectare area. The site features a diverse coral reef ecosystem and serves as an important aquaculture area for local residents.

The establishment of the co-management group has strengthened the community's role in monitoring and protecting marine ecosystems, preventing destructive fishing practices, and raising awareness among fishers about the sustainable use and management of fisheries resources.

According to the organizers, the project will continue to develop and replicate sustainable livelihood models linked to marine conservation, support community-based tourism, and strengthen the capacity of local co-management organizations. Additional workshops and communication activities on fisheries resource protection and sustainable coastal livelihoods will also be organized.

Through these efforts, the project is expected to create more stable livelihoods for local communities, reduce pressure on natural fisheries resources, and encourage greater community participation in the management and protection of marine resources.

On this occasion, the Farmers' Union of Xuan Huong-Da Lat Ward donated 300 national flags and 20 gift packages, totaling VND 50 million, to the Farmers' Union of Phu Quy Special Zone for members and fishers facing difficult circumstances.

The initiative not only encourages local fishers to continue making a living at sea but also promotes public awareness of safeguarding national sovereignty over seas and islands while advancing sustainable marine economic development and fisheries conservation.

$ 1 = VND 26,450 - Source: Vietcombank.

Minh Hanh