(Photo: SGGP)

The project to restore the upstream forest of the Gianh river will be carried out by the Vietnam Afforestation and Reforestation Social Company (VARS) in association with the People's Committee of Tuyen Hoa District of Quang Binh Province and the Center for Highland Natural Resource Governance Research.

As of April 8, the project has planted 8.3 hectares of indigenous trees in Ke hamlet, Lam Hoa commune and has raised awareness of the importance of protecting the environment and forests and planting trees.

Ngo Van Hong, Deputy Director of SARS, said, 'The project aims to turn bare hills into thick forests which will improve the local economy and protect the environment. The trees grow will help retain soil.'

Dinh Xuan Thuong, Head of the Agriculture and Rural Development Section of Tuyen Hoa district, says planting upstream forests replenishes the soil and prevents erosion, landslides and flooding.

'Restoring upstream forests of the Gianh river is important because it helps to mitigate damage caused by natural disasters and flooding while at the same time creating livelihood for local people. The project will encourage locals to switch from growing acacias to growing indigenous trees which will be more profitable.' said Thuong.

VARS aims to grow 100 ha of forests this year.