59892 V1 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS CAUSED BY TRUNG SON HYDROPOWER PROJECT TO PROTECTED AREAS AND TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY ELECTRICITY OF VIETNAM TRUNG SON HYDROPOWER PROJECT MANAGEMENT BOARD Implementing Agency CENTER FOR BIODIVERSITY AND BIOSAFETY (CBB) FINAL REPORT HANOI ­ 2008 ELECTRICITY OF VIETNAM WORLD BANK ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS CAUSED BY TRUNG SON HYDROPOWER PROJECT TO PROTECTED AREAS AND TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY PHRD grant for preparation of "Vietnam Power source Development Project" Package MT-03: Protected areas and Terrestrial biodiversity, MANAGING AGENCY TRUNG SON HYDROPOWER PROJECT MANAGEMENT BOARD IMPLEMENTING AGENCY CENTER FOR BIODIVERSITY AND BIOSAFETY FINAL REPORT HANOI - 2008 1 TABLE OF CONTENT Executive summary 7 Introduction 10 0.1. Aim 10 0.2. Overview of biodiversity and protected areas in Vietnam 10 0.3. Report preparation agencies 14 0.4. Methodology 15 Chapter 1. Biodiversity values of Nature reserves and areas potentially affected 18 by TSHPP 1.1. Nature reserves potentially affected by TSHPP 18 1.2. Regional importance of the NRs 22 1.3. Biodiversity values of Xuan Nha Nature Reserve 25 1.4. Biodiversity values of Pu Hu Nature Reserve 31 1.5. Biodiversity values of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co Nature Reserve 38 1.6. Summary of biodiversity values from 3 NRs in TSHPP area 42 1.7. Biodiversity values of affected areas outside NRs 44 Chapter 2. Biodiversity components of national and international conservation 48 significance 2.1. Biodiversity importance of project area 48 2.2. Biodiversity components of national and international conservation significance 48 in Project area 2.2.1. Ecosystems of NICS 48 2.2.2. Communities of NICS 49 2.2.3. Species of NICS 49 Chapter 3. Threats to biodiversity, capacity of NRs Management boards and 60 trend of biodiversity without TSHPP 3.1. Threats to biodiversity 60 3.2. Difficulties in NR management 63 3.2.1. Weak capacity of NR Management Boards 63 3.2.2. Livelihood and conservation awareness of local communities 64 3.3. Trend of biodiversity without TSHPP 68 Chapter 4. Forecasted impacts of TSHPP to NRs and terrestrial biodiversity, 74 proposed measures for prevention and mitigation of negative impacts 4.1. Positive impacts of TSHPP 74 4.2. Potential negative impacts 74 4.2.1. Sources and types of negative impacts 74 4.2.2. Assessment of negative impacts to NRs and terrestrial biodiversity 77 4.2.3. Negative impact account for each NRs 94 Chapter 5. An action plan for mitigation of negative impacts to Nature 98 Reserves and terrestrial biodiversity 2 5.1. Key organizations in environment management of TSHPP 98 5.2. Mitigation plan 99 5.3. Location and responsibility for mitigation activities 113 5.4. Annual schedule for implementing mitigation activities 116 5.5. Preliminary budget estimate 119 Conclusion 125 Main reference 126 Annexes Annex 1. A list of plant species recorded in 3 NRs of TSHPP area 129 Annex 2. A list of mammal species recorded in 3 NRs of TSHPP area 160 Annex 3. A list of bird species recorded in 3 NRs of TSHPP area 163 Annex 4. A list of amphibian species recorded in 3 NRs of TSHPP area 171 Annex 5. A list of floral biodiversity components of NICS in TSHPP area 174 Annex 6. Conservation Need Assessment for Pu Hu NR 178 Annex 7. Conservation Need Assessment for Xuan Nha NR 191 Annex 8. Conservation Need Assessment for Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR 205 Annex 9. Household survey form 218 Annex 10. A list of surveyed households in NRs' buffer zone 223 Annex 11. Summary results of consultancy with agencies and local authorities 228 Annex 12. Some pictures of TSHPP and consultancy activities 237 Annex 13. Main features of TSHPP 250 List of maps Map 1. Location of 3 NRs in Project area and survey routes 18 Map 2. Location of 3 NR in Greater Annamite Ecoregion 24 Map 3. Vegetation cover of Xuan Nha Nature Reserve 26 Map 4. Vegetation cover of Pu Hu Nature Reserve 32 Map 5. Vegetation cover of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co Nature Reserve 39 List of Tables Table 0-1. A list of experts participating in preparation of EIA report 14 Table 1.1. Basic data of NRs in TSHPP basin 18 Table 1.2. Taxa diversity of flora in Xuan Nha NR 28 Table 1.3. Number of threatened plant species in Xuan Nha NR 28 Table 1.4. Taxa diversity of fauna in Xuan Nha NR 29 Table 1.5. Number of threatened animal species in Xuan Nha NR 30 Table 1.6. Taxa diversity of flora in Pu Hu NR 33 Table 1.7. Number of threatened plant species in Pu Hu NR 33 Table 1.8. Taxa diversity of fauna in Pu Hu NR 34 Table 1.9. Number of threatened animal species in Pu Hu NR 35 Table 1.10. Taxa diversity of flora in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR 40 Table 1.11. Number of threatened plant species in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR 41 Table 1.12. Taxa diversity of fauna in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR 41 Table 1.13. Number of threatened animal species in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR 42 3 Table 1.14. Main vegetation types in 3 NRs of TSHPP basin 42 Table 1.15. Taxa diversity of flora in 3 NRs of TSHPP basin 43 Table 1.16. Endemic and threatened species of flora in 3 NRs 43 Table 1.17. Taxa diversity of fauna in 3 NRs 44 Table 1.18. Threatened and endemic species of fauna in 3 NRs 44 Table 1.19. Land-use of Co Luong ­ Co Me Transportation Road (ha) 46 Table 1.20. Current land-use of Fixed resettlement and fixed cultivation Areas 46 Table 1.21. Current land-use of Reservoir basin (ha) 46 Table 2.1. Number of plant and animal species with NICS recorded in Project area 50 Table 2.2. Conservation status of species of NICS in Project area 51 Table 2.3. A list of animal species of NICS found in NRs of TSHPP area 51 Table 3.1. Direct threats to biodiversity of NRs 60 Table 3.2. Population and ethnic composition of local communities 64 Table 3.3. Forest products collected by local communities from natural forest 66 Table 3.4: Results of survey on conservation awareness of local communities 67 Table 3.5. Decrease of area of NRs in TSHPP area 70 Table 4.1. Negative impacts of TSHPP on biodiversity of NRs 77 Table 4.2. Forest area occupied by TSHPP construction works 79 Table 4.3. Noise intensity (dB) of mine explosion and construction machines 82 Table 4.4. Agricultural land occupied by TSHPP construction works 84 Table 5.1. Current land use of proposed FS&FCAs (ha) 107 Table 5.2. Land use planning for FS&FCAs until 2011 (ha) 107 Table 5.3. Location and responsible organizations responsible for funding and 113 implementation of each mitigation activities Table 5.4.Annual schedule for implementation of mitigation activities 117 for negative impacts on biodiversity of NRs and buffer zones Table 5.5.Budget to be funded by TSHPP and its allocation to each implementing 119 agencies Table 5.6.Detailed budget estimated for activities to be funded by TSHPP 120 Investment fund 4 ABBREVIATIONS ADB - Asian Development Bank asl ­ Above sea level BAP ­ Biodiversity Action Plan of Vietnam CBFM ­ Community-based forest management CBD ­ Centre for Biodiversity and Bio safety DVZ ­ Department of Vertebrate Zoology of IEBR EIA ­ Environmental Impacts Assessment EMU - Environment Management Unit of TSHPP EVN ­ Electricity of Vietnam FFCB ­ Forest Fire Control Board FPD ­ Forest Protection Department FLMEC ­ Forests of the Lower Mekong Coercion Complex FR&FCA - Fixed resettlement and Fixed cultivation area FP&FFC - Forest Protection and Forest fire control FUV ­ Forestry University of Vietnam HC - Head Contractor HKPC NR ­ Hang Kia ­ Pa Co Nature Reserve MARD ­ Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development DARD ­ Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (in provinces) MONRE - Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment DONRE - Department of Natural Resources and Environment (in provinces) IEBR ­ Institute of Ecology and Biological Resource MA ­ Management Board MIT - Ministry of Industry and Trade MOST ­ Ministry of Science and Technology MONRE ­ Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment NICS ­ National and international conservation significance NP ­ National Park NR ­ Nature Reserve NTFP ­ Non-timber forest products NAPWTC - National action plan to strengthen control of trade in wild fauna and flora to 2010 (2004) PDR ­ People Democratic Republic PECC4 - The Power Engineering Consulting Company 4 SUF ­ Special-Use Forest ( forest protected areas) TSHPP ­ Trung Son Hydropower Project VN ­ Vietnam VCF ­ Vietnam Conservation Fund VFPT ­ Village forest protection team WB ­ World Bank WWF ­ World Wide Fund for Nature 5 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY TSHPP is located in the transition zone between Greater Annamites Ecoregion and Northern Highlands. Greater Annamites Ecoregion is one of WWF global 200 ecoregions which are characterized by Earth's most outstanding biodiversity values and as world hottest spot of biodiversity conservation (Baltzer et al. 2001, Tordoff et al. 2003). Northern Highlands also contain biodiversity centres with large number of species of high conservation significance (BAP, 1994). There are 3 NRs located in the TSHPP area, including Pu Hu NR (Thanh Hoa Province), Xuan Nha NR (Son La Province) and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR (Hoa Binh Province). All these NRs are characterized by tall tropical and sub-tropical evergreen forest cover with very high biodiversity values. Preliminary study has identified 9 natural forest types in the NRs and recoded 936 species of higher vascular plant species; 79 species of mammals, 258 species of birds, 30 species of amphibians. Out of them, 261 species are identified as species of high NICS, including 39 plant species and 56 animal species being nationally endangered; 41 plant species and 33 animal species being internationally endangered; 93 plant species and 5 animal species are endemic to Vietnam. Furthermore, 2 wildlife groups (Primates and Testudinata) with high numbers of nationally and internationally endangered species are identified as highly sensitive to impacts of TSHPP. Biodiversity in Project area is facing considerable pressure of various threats such as wildlife hunting/ trapping and trade, forest clearing for agriculture, timber extraction, un-sustainable harvest of NTFPs, high forest fire risk. Currently, biodiversity conservation efforts in the area are under required standards due to low management capacity of the NR MBs and low conservation awareness of local communities. All these make the trend of biodiversity in Project area very likely continued to be reduced/degraded in absence of TSHPP TSHPP will not cause direct loss of ecosystems for 3 NRs, but for buffer zone of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. During construction period, TSHPP will occupy total 3,634.88 ha of land (for construction ground, reservoir, FR&FCAs and internal transport roads) in buffer zone of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. The direct ecosystem loss includes about 1,441.07 ha of plantations (mainly Dendrocalamus membranaceus) and 68.34ha of exhausted natural forest with very low biodiversity values. The proposed area of re-afforestation for compensation is 350 ha; scattered forest trees planting and enrichment of secondary natural forests in Project area is encouraged. TSHPP will cause significant indirect impacts on biodiversity in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR through increase of severeness of existing threats to biodiversity. Impacts on biodiversity of Hang Kia- Pa Co NR are negligible due to its location far away from Project headworks. The indirect impacts will occur during Preparation, Construction 6 and Operational phases and may result from increased population (workers, spontaneous development) and improved access to the forests, thus generating increased pressure on forest resources. The specific negative impacts include: 1. Loss of forests leading to reduction of biodiversity in NR (Low in Preparation and Construction phases; negligible in Operation phase) 2. Pollution of land, water and air causing negative health problems for wildlife (Low in Preparation and Construction phases; negligible in Operation phase) 3. Noise causing disturbance to normal activities of wildlife, some wildlife species should move to other more safe areas of NR or even outside NR (Low in Preparation and Construction phases; negligible in Operation phase) 4. Increasing threat of forest clearing for agriculture land leading to reduction of habitat size and quality (High in Preparation, Construction and Operation phases) 5. Increasing threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs over-harvest leading to reduction of habitat quality, some plant species abundance, and food source for phytivoruos wildlife (High in Preparation, Construction and Operation phases) 6. Increasing threat of wildlife trapping/hunting and trade, leading to reduction of some species abundance, threaten survival of endangered and economic species (High in Preparation, Construction and Operation phases) 7. Increasing risk of forest fire leading to habitat decrease and degradation, reduction of some species abundance (High in Preparation and Construction phases; negligible in Operation phase) 8. Increasing free-ranging cattle raising in NRs leading to habitat degradation and diseases transfer to wildlife (Low in Preparation, Construction and Operation phases) 9. Hydrological regime change through reservoir filling and operation causing changes in habitat structure and disturbing normal life of species of NICS (None in Preparation, Construction phases; low in Operation phases) Following mitigation measures with detailed activities for each have been developed: 1. Strengthening conservation capacity of NRs 2. Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement 3. Minimisation of vegetation clearing and rehabilitation in reservoir area and construction sites 4. Monitoring programme for Endangered wildlife species 5. Developing a model of Community-based forest management plan for FS&FCAs 6. Environmental education for construction workers and local public 7. Implementation of Construction Worker Camps Management Plan 7 Total budget estimate for implementation of the mitigation measures is 298,200 USD, which will be paid by TSHPP investment fund. Except for above mentioned measures, MBs of each NRs should revise and update its Management Plan (or Investment Plan) for enhancing effective management of the NR and effectively mitigating negative impacts of TSHPP on the NR and Biodiversity. 8 INTRODUCTION 0.1. Aims Trung Son Hydropower Project (TSHPP) will be constructed on Ma river, in territory of Trung Son Commune, Quan Hoa District, Thanh Hoa Province. TSHPP construction will potentially cause impacts to three Nature Reserves (NR): Xuan Nha NR, Pu Hu NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR. Draft Environmental Impacts Assessment Report (EIA) for TSHPP has been prepared by the Power Engineering Consulting Company 4 (PECC4). When reviewing the submitted draft EIA, the World Bank and EVN have decided to implement some additional studies to evaluate in details and to prepare mitigation plans for some fields potentially affected by TSHPP to enhance the quality of EIA report. Assessment of impacts caused by TSHPP to protected areas and terrestrial biodiversity is one component of these additional studies. The aims of this component and thus this technical report of EIA is to: - Determination of biodiversity components having national and/or international importance as existed in each protected area (endangered species, communities/ecosystems having global importance) - Defining current threats to biodiversity and development of natural biodiversity in the case if TSHPP is not constructed. - Forecasting possible impacts caused by TSHPP to biodiversity in various protected areas - Evaluation on management capacity of various protected areas - Preparing an action plan for construction and/or updating Natural Resources Management Plan so as to mitigate negative impacts caused by TSHPP and to preserve basic biodiversity values of various protected area. 0.2. Overview of biodiversity and protected areas in Vietnam Vietnam has rich biodiversity values. It has been recorded 295 species of mammals (Dang Ngoc Can et al., 2008), 828 species of birds (Vo Quy and Nguyen Cu, 1995), 296 species of reptiles, 162 species of amphibians (Nguyen Van Sang et al., 2005), more than 700 species of fresh water fishes and about 15,000 species of plants (Nguyen Nghia Thin, 2005). Complete surveys are still to be conducted and when done will surely add to the growing number of species being recorded. Fauna and flora of Vietnam has high endemism which consists of about 100 species and subspecies of birds (Vo Quy and Nguyen Cu, 1995); 88 species and subspecies of mammals (Nguyen Xuan Dang, 2008) and about 20% of plant species (Nguyen Nghia Thin, 2005). Several decades of wars and un-sustainable exploitation after the wars have made biodiversity of Vietnam significantly degraded. The forest area was reduced from about 14.3 million ha in 1943 to 9.3 millions ha in 1995; during recent decade, the forest area has 9 been increased to about 12.3 million ha, but mostly due to plantation (MONRE, 2005). Most of extant natural forests are severely degraded; primary forests remain only in high mountain areas with isolated patches. Fauna and flora are also dramatically degraded with 418 species of animals and 462 species of plants being threatened with extinction in the country and enlisted in Red Data Book of Vietnam (2007). Majority of biodiversity is confined to forest ecosystems and biodiversity conservation much relies on the forest management. Based on Law on Forest Protection and Development (2004) and Decision 186/2006/QD-TTg of Prime Minister on the regulations for the management of the three forest types (2006) , the forests in Vietnam are classified into 3 management types: - Special Use Forests (SUF) are for preservation of national representative ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, scientific research, education and recreation; SUF are managed by SUF Management Boards, usually, although not exclusively, under the responsibility of the Forest Protection Department (FPD) at national level or Provincial Forest Protection Sub-departments. - Protection Forests are for watershed protection and other environmental protection purposes; Protection forest are mostly located in watershed areas and are under the jurisdiction of DARD at provincial level (and are managed by the Forestry Sub- department and other statutory bodies such as Forest Management Boards and State Forest Enterprises). - Production Forests are usually the more accessible areas that are allocated to households, community groups, organizations or enterprises for production purposes, including the establishment of plantations. . Management of SUF is regulated by Law on Forest Protection and Development (2004), Decision 186/2006/QD-TTg (2006) and also Law on Biodiversity which proposed to be valid in July 2009. Important points of these documents related to management of SUF are listed bellow. · Law on Forest Protection and Development (2004) stipulate that: SUFs, which are used mainly for conservation of nature, representatives of national forest ecosystems and forest biological gene pool; for scientific research; protection of historical and cultural relics as well as landscapes; in service of recreation and tourism in combination with protection, contributing to environmental protection, include: - National Parks - Nature Reserves, including Nature Reserves and Species/Habitat Conservation Areas - Landscape Protection Areas - Scientific Research and Experiment forests (Article 4.2) 10 The development and use of SUF must ensure the natural status progresses of forest, biodiversity conservation and forest landscape (Article 49.1). Stabilization of life of communities living in SUFs and their buffer zone: a) It is forbidden to relocate population from other areas to settle in SUFs b) SUF management board must develop Projects on population relocation and resettlement and submit them to competent agencies for ratification to relocate population out of Strictly- Protection zone of the SUF c) With regard to Strictly-protection zone where conditions not permit the relocation of population, the SUF management board should assign forests of the SUF to households or individuals on the basis of short-term package contracts for forest protection. d) For Ecological restoration zones, the SUF management boards should assign forest of the SUF to local households and on the basis of short-term package contracts for forest protection and development. e) With regard to buffer zones of SUFs, the People's Committees of competent level should assign or lease forests in the buffer zone to organizations, households or individuals for use according to the forest management regulations (Article 54). · Decision 186/2006/QD-TTg stipulate that: Each national parks and nature reserves should have following functional zones: a) Strict protection zone which retains intact natural ecosystems as national representatives that are strict protected and managed for study of natural succession of the forests and ecosystems. b) Ecological restoration zone which is strictly protected and managed for restoration of forest ecosystems through certain necessary silvicultural interventions c) Administration-service zone where the headquarter of Management Boards, facilities for research, tourism and recreation will be constructed (Article 14.1) Within Strict protection zone and Ecological restoration zone following activities are strictly forbidden: a) Activities that will change natural status of the forests b) Activities that will negative affect the normal life of wild animals and plants c) Release and breeding of animal and plant taxa which are non-native to the NP and NR d) Exploitation of biological resources and other natural resources e) Activities that cause environmental pollution f) Taking toxic chemicals, explosive and inflammable materials into forests g) Burning inside and close to the forests h) Rearing domestic cattle and poultry (Article 18: 1) 11 Strict prohibition of hunting, trapping and catching wild animals inside NPs and NRs; for special case, it should follow the regulations stipulated in Governmental Decree 32/2006/ND-CP, dated 30 March 2006 on management of endangered, precious, rare forest plants and forest animals (Article 18:2) Stabilization of life of communities living in SUFs: 1. Stabilization of life of communities living in SUFs must follow regulations stipulated in Article 54 of Law on Forest Protection and Development (see above). 2. Area of settlement land, paddy field, gardens and upland field of population living inside SUFs is excluded from area of the SUF and must be presented on maps, demarcated and managed according Law on land (Article 23) Buffer zones of National Parks and Nature Reserves: - National Parks and Nature Reserves should have buffer zone - Buffer zone is an area of forest, land or water bodies which are adjacent to NPs and NRs; entire or a part of communes, towns which are adjacent to boundary of NPs and NRs. - Buffer zones are established in order to prevent and mitigate negative impacts of people to NPs and NRs. - Area of buffer zones are not accounted for area of NP or NR. - Management boards of NPs and NRs should arrange communities in buffer zones to participate in protection, conservation, rational use of forest products and natural resources, ecotourism services for increase of their household income and linking their livelihood to activities of the NPs and NRs. - Governmental organizations/authorities situated in buffer zones should develop investment plans for rural production and infrastructural development in order to stabilize the life of local communities, while create regulations ensuring duties of local communities and each households in protection of the NPs or NRs (Article 24) · Law on Biodiversity stipulate that: Right and obligation of organization, households, individuals living or operating legally in protected areas (including SUFs). 1. Organization, households, individuals living or operating legally in protected areas have following rights: a) Participation in biodiversity conservation in the protected area; b) Exploit legal resources in the protected area; c) Sharing benefits from business activities and services in the protected area; d) Being beneficial from Government policies of privilege and supports according to laws. 12 e) Being awarded of land for settlement in case of resettlement outsides the protected area 2. Organization, households, individuals living or operating legally in protected areas have following obligations: a) Not enlarge the area of settlement land; b) To obey management regulations of the protected area; c) To conserve biodiversity of the protected area. (Article 24) Management of buffer zone of protected areas: 3. All development projects taken place in buffer zone should have EIA report. In case, the project contains potential risk of environmental accidents or spreading toxic wastes, the decision of the EIA report approval must identify safe distance to prevent negative impact on the protected area. 4. Council of examination and approval of EIA report of development projects in buffer zones of protected areas should include participants from management board or organization/ individuals who manage the protected area. 5. Provincial People's Committees have obligation to develop and implement projects which support communities living in buffer zones and are undergone negative impacts of establishment of the protected area (Article 27) 0.3. Report preparation agencies Report of impact assessment of TSHPP to Protected areas and Terrestrial biodiversity is managed by TSHPP Management Board (MB) and implemented by Center for Biodiversity and Biosafety (CBD). Management Agency: Trung Son Hydropower Project Management Board Director: Ho Si Bao Address: 25A - Quang Trung - Ngoc Trao - Thanh Hoa City Telephone : 0373.726335 Fax : 0373.726335 Consultant's Agency: Center for Biodiversity and Biosafety. Director: Le Tran Chan Address: No.76, 26/15, Thai Thinh II lane, Thinh Quang, Dong Da District, Hanoi Capital Telephone: 048536908, 048364052 Preparation of this EIA report on Protected areas and Terrestrial biodiversity are undertaken by 10 experts from Consultant Agency (Table 0-1). Table 0-1. A list of experts participating in preparation of EIA report No. Name Title I Project Management Trung Son Hydropower Project Management Agency Board 13 1 oàn Thanh Lâm Staff member of Technical Division (supervisor) II Consultant's Agency Center for Biodiversity and Biosafety 1 Nguyn Xuân ng Ass. Prof., Ph.D. ­ Ecology expert, (Team leader) Mobile: 0913312431, e-mail: dangnx@fpt.vn 2 ng Ngc Cn Ph.D. ­ Zoology and Conservation Expert 3 Ngô Xuân Tng M.Sc. ­ Ornithology and Conservation Expert 4 Hu Th Ph.D. ­ Vegetation and Forestry Expert 5 Lê Trn Chn Ph.D. ­ Floral expert 6 Hà Quư Qunh M.Sc. ­ Landscape Geography and GIS expert 7 ng Thng Long M.Sc. ­ Protected Planning and Social Forestry expert 8 Nguyn Xuân Ngha B.Sc. ­ Biology, support on data analysis 9 Nguyn Th nh M.Sc. ­ Environment study, support on data analysis 10 ng Ngc Hi Ninh M.Sc. ­ Economy, support on data analysis 0.4. Methodology 0.4.1. Determining basic conditions in each protected areas and affected areas First of all, we interview related agencies and collect as much as possible available documents/ materials about biodiversity in the Project area such as publications, survey reports, management reports of biodiversity management agencies (local Forest Protection Units, MBs of NRs, Enterprises, local authorities and communities). Based on review of collected documents/ materials and analysis of collected interview information we: - Develop a preliminary overview of biodiversity status in the Project area, status of biodiversity study, management and conservation, factors causing degradation of local biodiversity and trend of biodiversity without TSHPP. - Create a temporary list of important biodiversity components especially biodiversity components of national and international conservation significance (NICS). - Identify any lack of or out-of-date information that need to obtain or update for effective management of local biodiversity The information/data which need to collect include mostly, information/data on natural ecosystems (vegetation status, fauna and flora) in the area. Evaluation of important conservation significance of the area and local NRs is based on following criteria: - Species endemic for Vietnam - Nationally threatened species follow latest Red Data Book of Vietnam (2007) - Globally threatened species follow 2008 IUCN Red List. - Communities or ecosystems which play important role in the species conservation nationally and/or internationally. 14 Principally, biodiversity consists of 3 levels: gene, species and ecosystem. Due to time limitation, in this study, biodiversity was assessed only at species and ecosystem level only. Next step is to conduct field investigation in 3 potentially affected NRs and other possible affected areas to collect additional and update information for appropriate assessment of local biodiversity and NR management. Survey team will consist of experience experts of all relevant aspects. Main survey methods are: - Observe and take appropriate records by appropriate equipments such as binoculars, telescope, digital camera, GPS, etc. to get data on current status of wildlife populations of high NICS - Visit areas to be affected by TSHPP (inundation, road construction, resettlement, etc.) to assess level of impacts to forest cover and various biodiversity components. - Use satellite images and GIS techniques to describe vegetation status and estimate loss of forest by TSHPP. - Direct observation of evidence of human impacts and other threats to the biodiversity in the areas Due to time limitation, this study focused on higher vascular plants and terrestrial vertebrate animals. These biodiversity components have very high economic and conservation values. They are also most facing high harvest pressure and other anthropogenic disturbances. 0.4.2. Assessment of use of local biological resources by local communities and their dependence of the biological resources Meeting and interviewing local communities to identify their dependence on local biological resources, their awareness on biodiversity conservation and concerns about negative impacts of TSHPP to local forest resources and their livelihood, discussing with them how to prevent/mitigate impacts of TSHPP to local biodiversity. PRA will be used for assessing natural resources use by villages located inside or close to boundaries of affected NRs, thus identify dependence of local villages on forest/nature reserve resources, and whether their forest product collection activities legal or illegal. Questionnaire was prepared before survey conducting (Annex 9) 0.4.3. Evaluating capacity of responsible agencies on management of protected areas and biodiversity conservation and their concern about impacts of TSHPP. To discuss with MBs of 3 affected NRs to identify any issues, difficulties of the NR management and their management capacity (such as lack of staff members, their training level, infrastructure, equipment, budget, etc.); study the NR management plan, their 15 concerns about impacts of TSHPP, their suggestions on measures of prevention/mitigation of negative impacts and improvement of NR management and biodiversity conservation activities. Discussing with Provincial Forest Protection Department (FPD) and MBs of NRs or any protection forests and local authorities in Project area to learn their difficulties, issues and capacity in forest management and biodiversity conservation; learning their concerns about impacts of TSHPP and their suggestions on prevention/mitigation measures. Tools for Conservation Need Assessment (including capacity assessment of NR management boards and Biodiversity threats assessment) used by WB-funded Vietnam Conservation Fund for protected areas assessment will be used in this study with some relevant modification. 0.4.4. Forecasting impacts of TSHPP and development of prevention/mitigation measures Based on thorough study of main technical features of TSHPP, construction organization, resettlement plan, operation mechanism and results of local biodiversity assessment, forecasting of all possible impacts (both positive and negative) of TSHPP to biodiversity and NRs will be made. Then programmes and measures for prevention/ mitigation of the negative impacts will be developed. For this we will use our extensive expertise, experience from many other EIAs both national and international, especially, those EIAs which were made in accordance with guidelines of WB and Asian Development Bank (ADB). Some aspects that proposed measures should address are as following: development of specific regulations to control of workers camps and service-providing people; prevention of increase of wildlife hunting, forest product collection and wildlife trade in the area, improvement of management capacity for management boards of nature reserves, increase biodiversity monitoring and conservation in protected areas, increase of community support to biodiversity conservation objectives and participation in conservation activities; update or newly development of reserve management plan. All these strategies, plans, programmes or measures will be compiled into an Action plan for NRs. The action plan will consists of conservation activities to reach the objectives, responsible organizations/agencies and budget for its implementation. 16 Map 1. Location of 3 NRs in Project area and survey routes 17 CHAPTER 1 BIODIVERSITY VALUES OF NATURE RESERVES AND AREAS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED BY TSHPP 1.1. NATURE RESERVES POTENTIALLY AFFECTED BY TSHPP According to Project design (PECC4, 2008), basin of TSHPP is defined as 1,317,500 ha large and Project area is 78,834 ha. The Project area covers 6 communes: Trung Son, Trung Ly, Muong Ly, Tam Chung (Thanh Hoa Province), Tan Xuan and Xuan Nha communes of Son La Province. There are 3 NRs located in TSHPP area and potentially affected by the TSHPP. They are Xuan Nha NR in Son La Province, Pu Hu NR in Thanh Hoa Province and Hang Kia- Pa Co NR in Hoa Binh Province (Map 1). Basic data of these NRs are shown in Table 1.1. Table 1.1. Basic data of NRs in TSHPP basin Data Xuan Nha NR Pu Hu NR Hang Kia-Pa Co NR Location Moc Chau District, Quan Hoa and Mai Chau District, Son La Province Muong Lat Districts, Hoa Binh Province Thanh Hoa Province o o Coordinates N20034'45"-20054'54" N 20 0'00"-20 22'30" N20040'30''- 20045'30" 0 o E 104 28'42" - E 104 40'00"- E 105051' 20''- 0 104 50'26" 105o 05'00" 105000'35'' Year of NR 1986 1999 1986 establishment Year of MB of NR 2002 1999 2000 establishment Ownership agency MB Xuan Nha NR MB of Pu Hu NR MB Hang Kia - Pa Co NR Management FPD of Son La FPD of Thanh Hoa FPD of Hoa Binh Authority Province Province Province Designations (IUCN Nature Reserve. Nature Reserve. Nature Reserve. category) IUCN Category Ib IUCN Category Ib IUCN Category Ib (Wilderness Area). (Wilderness Area). (Wilderness Area). Area of NR 16,316.8 ha 23,149.45 ha 7,091ha (core zone) Area of buffer zone 87,336 ha. 27,306 ha 8,135 ha Main objectives - Conservation of - Conservation of - Conservation of Tropical and Sub- typical forests and limestone forest tropical forest biodiversity of North ecosystems of ecosystems of Central Vietnam Northwest Vietnam 18 Northwest Vietnam - Conservation of - Conservation of - Conservation of precious and precious and precious and endangered species endangered species endangered species - Protection of - Protection of natural - Protection of watershed forests of environment and Watershed forest of Ma and Luong Supporting socio- Ma and Da rivers; Rivers; environment economic environment protection and development of local protection and supporting local mountainous supporting local economic communities economic development development · Xuan Nha NR Xuan Nha NR is located in territory of 5 communes of Moc Chau District, Son La Province. They are Xuan Nha, Chieng Xuan, Tan Xuan, Long Sap and Chieng Son Communes. Before 2007, total area of Xuan Nha NR was 27,084.5 ha. In December 2007, the NR boundaries have been revised to exclude areas which are much affected by human settlements and agricultural lands. As the result, the total area of Xuan Nha NR is now reduced to 16,316.8 ha (Decision 2955/UB-QDUB of Son La Provincial People Committee, dated 17 December 2007). The NR is divided into 2 functional zones: Strict protection zone of 10,173.3 ha and Ecological restoration zone of 6,143.5 ha. Headquarter of NR is located in Chieng Son Commune. Buffer zone includes territory of 8 communes: Xuan Nha, Tan Xuan, Long Sap and Chieng Son communes of Son La Province; Tam Chung, Muong Ly, Trung Ly and Trung Son communes of Thanh Hoa Province and Hang Kia commune of Hoa Binh Province. Total area of the buffer zone is about 87,336 ha (area of buffer zone is not included in area of NR itself which is usually referred as core zone). Xuan Nha NR is a part of Moc Chau Highland. The elevations of the NR range from 260 m to above 1.900 m asl. with Pha Luong mountain of 1,969 m as highest peak in the area. Major part of Xuan Nha NR is formulated by system of 3 limestone mountain ranges running by Northwest to Southeast direction and with hills or narrow mountain-foot plains alternated these mountain ranges. The terrain is steep at 20o-25o in average and more than 35o in some places. There are two main large streams: Con stream and Quanh stream which are confluent in southeast corner of NR before joining to Ma River in front of TSHPP dam. There are also several small streams generated from Vietnam-Laos boundary area, running into Long Sap Stream in the northwestern part of NR. Xuan Nha NR belongs to basin of TSHPP. The nearest distance from main dam to NR boundary is about 4 km. The confluence of Quanh stream and Ma river is just about 2-3 19 km away from main dam in upstream and thus Quanh stream will be a part of TSHPP reservoir. During construction period, some construction works (reservoir, land pit, etc.) will be located in buffer zone of Xuan Nha NR, in Tam Chung, Tan Xuan and Xuan Nha communes (Son La Province) and Muong Ly Commune (Muong Lat District, Thanh Hoa Province). · Pu Hu NR Pu Hu NR is located in Northwest of Thanh Hoa Province, in territory of Quan Hoa and Muong Lat Districts and sharing territory of 11 communes: 10 communes from Quan Hoa Districts (Hien Chung, Hien Kiet, Nam Tien, Phu Son, Phu Thanh, Thanh Xuan, Thien Phu, Trung Son and Trung Thanh) and one communes (Trung Ly) from Muong Lat District. The NR has total area of 23,149.72 ha and divided into 3 functional zones: - Strict protection zone of 10,573.72 ha - Ecological restoration zone of 12,253.23 ha - Administration and service zone of 322.5 ha Buffer zone consists of the parts of 11 above mentioned communes which are located outside Pu Hu NR. Total area of buffer zone is about 54.000 ha. Pu Hu NR is a mountain massive in western part of limestone mountain chain running Northwest to Southeast, from Pu Luong NR in Thanh Hoa Province to Cuc Phuong NP in Ninh Binh Province. Pu Hu mountain with highest peak of 1,440 m asl. formulates a main topographic structures of the NR. The terrain is deeply divided by a system of ridges and narrow valleys with steep slopes of 25o-30o in average. The elevations range from 50 m ­ 1,440 m asl. mostly above 150 m. The mountains and hills are mainly none-limestone, however, contain high density of rocks, sometimes, with very big stone blocks. There is a relatively dense network of streams in the NR. The streams run into 2 rivers: Ma river running along north and eastern NR boundaries and Luong River running along western and southern NR boundaries. Ma River and Luong River are confluent in south corner close to Quan Hoa Town. Pu Hu NR belongs to basin of TSHPP with Ma River running along its northern and eastern boundaries (in buffer zone). The nearest distance from main dam to NR boundary is about 2-3 km; however, reservoir does not enter into the NR (only in its buffer zone). Project area covers territory of 3 communes (Trung Son, Trung Ly and Muong Ly), which are defined as the buffer zone of Pu Hu NR. · Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is a small NR, located in Mai Chau District of Hoa Binh Province, in territory of 5 communes: Hang Kia, Pa Co, Cun Pheo, Pieng Ve and Bao La communes. Total area is 7,091 ha and divided into 2 functional zones: 20 - Strict protection zone of 2,681 ha - Ecological restoration zone of 4,410 ha Buffer zone area is 8,135 ha covering 4 communes: Dong Bang, Cun Pheo, Pieng Ve and Bao La Communes. Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is located in limestone mountain massifs of Hoa Binh Province. The terrain is deeply sectioned by limestone mountains which run east to south, from Son La highland to Cuc Phuong NP in Ninh Binh Province. Average altitude is 1,200 m a.s.l. with highest peak of 1,536 m in Northwest of the NR and gradually reduced to the East. Major part of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR consists of limestone mountains which contains numerous narrow valleys, caves and has average slopes of 28o ­ 32o. Northern part of NR consists of valleys with relatively plain bottom, where many villages of local residents are located. The NR has only few short and steep streams running mostly underground, so shortage of water in dry season is a problem for wildlife and local residents. Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR represents as a watershed of 2 large rivers: Ma river and Da river. There is a Xia stream running from Cun Pheo Commune through Pieng Ve, Mai Hich and Van Mai Communes to Ma River in downstream of TSHPP dam. Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is partly located in basin of TSHPP, the closest distance form NR boundary to main dam is about 13 km Northeast and its buffer zone (Cun Pheo and Pieng Ve Communes) shares border with Trung Son Commune that belongs to TSHPP area. 1.2. REGIONAL IMPORTANCE OF THE NRs In 1998, WWF identified 238 ecoregions representing the highest priorities for biodiversity conservation worldwide. These 238 ecoregions, termed the Global 200, are collection of the Earth's most outstanding and diverse terrestrial, freshwater and marine habitats-areas where the Earth's biological wealth is most distinctive and rich, where its loss will be most severely felt. Five such ecoregions were recognized in Indochina: - The Annamite Range Moist Forests - The Indochina Dry Forests - The Cardamom Mountains Moist Forests - The Northern Indochina Sub-tropical Moist Forests - The Mekong River (entire catchments). The Forests of the Lower Mekong Ecoregion Complex (FLMEC) which WWF selected to initiate its ecoregion-based conservation programmes in Indochina contain 3 Global 200 ecoregions as the Greater Annamites, the Central Indochina Dry Forests, the Cardamom Mountains (Baltzer et al. 2001). The Greater Annamites (which called as Truong Son in Vietnam and Sayphou Louang in Lao) is a long chain of mountains, where from the peaks and highlands to the slopes and lowlands, rich tropical evergreen forests support a diverse range of precious plants and 21 animals. The ecoregion comprises the most unique and diverse biodiversity within the FLMEC (Tordoff et al. 2003). The discovery of the sao la (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis) by WWF and Vietnamese scientists in 1992 in Vu Quang NR drew the world's attention to the biodiversity associated with this mountain chain. Since that first remarkable discovery, many other new species have been found, including a number of large mammals such as the Giant muntjak (Muntiacus vuquangensis) and the Annamite striped rabit (Nesolagus timminsi). These discoveries highlight the Greater Annamites as one of the world's most remarkable and unique ecoregions. In addition to these species totally reliant on successful conservation in the ecoregion, a number of wider-range, highly threatened species such as the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), tiger (Panthera tigris) and word's most endangered large mammal, the lesser one-horned (Javan) rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus) are found in the ecoregion. TSHPP area with its 3 NRs (Xuan Nha NR, Pu Hu NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR) is located in Northern transition zone between Greater Annamites ecoregion and Northern Highlands (Map 2). This Transition zone was defined as a Priority survey area NAS1 due to its biodiversity poorly studied : "This zone that represents the transition between the Annamite flora and fauna and that of the Northern Highlands has been focus of few surveys and therefore remains little understood. There is reason to believe that this transition zone may comprise taxa of significant conservation priority, which would require this zone to be recognized as critical conservation priority landscape" (Baltzer et al. 2001). Furthermore, these 3 NRs formulate a forest connectivity between various protected areas in the area, both in Vietnam and Laos (with Pu Luong NR and Cuc Phuong NR to the East; with Xuan Lien NR and Pu Hoat NR to the South and with Nam Yet and Nam Xam protected areas in Laos to the West). As forest fragmentation that become are common threat to biodiversity in the region, the maintaining of forest connectivity will have utmost important role in ensuring success of its biodiversity conservation effort in the region. 22 Location of 3 NRs Map 2. Location of 3 NR in Greater Annamite Ecoregion (Adapted from WWF- Indochina Programme) 23 1.3. BIODIVERSITY VALUES OF XUAN NHA NR 1.3.1. Vegetation cover Vegetation cover of Xuan Nha NR is tropical dense evergreen forests with 3 main types: Tropical monsoon dense moist forest at altitude bellow 700m asl., Sub-tropical monsoon dense moist forest at altitude above 700m asl. and Mixed broadleaf-coniferous sub-tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest at altitude of above 800m asl. The primary forest occupies about 45% of total NR's area. The rests are secondary forests in different succession status which are results of regeneration from selected logging and shifting agricultural cultivation, namely, Secondary regenerating forest, Scrubland and Grasslands (Map 3).Tropical monsoon dense moist forest and Sub-tropical monsoon dense moist forest at altitude are 2 typical forest type of Northwest Vietnam. · Tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest This forest type occupies about 10-15% forest area and occurs at altitude bellow 700m. The forest has timber volume of about 300-400m3/ha and 5 storeys including 3 tree storeys. Tree storeys are dominated by following timber species: Dipterocarpus tonkinensis, Parashorea chinensis, Vatica fleuryana, Aglaia gigantea, Castanopssi sp., Pometia pinnata, Aphanamixis polystachya, Choerospondias axillaris, etc. Valuable timber species can be found in this forest are Markhamia stipulata, Madhuca pasquieri, Vatica fleuryana, Chukrasia tabularis, Paramichelia baillonii, Michelia mediocris, etc. In spite of high timber volume, number of tall timber trees is low, about only 10-15 trees/ ha. Therefore, further timber extraction will destroy forest storey structure leading to forest degradation. In limestone mountains this forest type characterized by domination of following species: Burretiodendron tonkinensis, Garcinia fagracoides, Dracontomelum duprreanum, Pomertia pinata, Annamocarya sinensis, Aglaia gigantea, Saraca dives, Bischofia javanica, Tacxotrophis macrophylla, Streblus macrophyllus, Diospyros sp., Hydnocarpus sp., Celtis sp., etc. · Sub-tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest This forest has an area of about 30% of forest land, distributing mainly in Strict protection zone at altitude above 700m asl. The forest is well developed with timber volume of about 250-300m3/ha . Dominated trees are Castacopsis sp., Castnopsis indica, Michelia balansae, M. mediocris, Camelia sp., Machilus sp. There are some coniferous species such as Keteleeria evelyniana, Dacrydium elatum, Cunninghamia knonishii, Nageia fleuryii, Podocarpus pilgeri. These coniferous species have low number of trees which grow scatterely or sometimes form a small formation at altitude of above 800 m asl. In limestone mountains this forest type has 2 tree storeys. Dominated tree species are from genera Lithocarpus, Quercus (Fabaceae), Machillus, Phoebe (Lauraceae), Ficus, Streblus 24 Map 3. Vegetation cover of Xuan Nha NR 25 (Moraceae), Michelia, Magnolia (Magnoliaceae), Engelhartia (Juglandaceae), Hydnocarpus (Flacourtiaceae), Diospyros (Ebenaceae), etc. · Mixed Broadleaf-coniferous Sub-tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest In this forest type composition of broadleaved species are similar to those in above mentioned forest type, consisting of species of genera Lithocarpus, Quercus (Fabaceae), Machillus, Phoebe (Lauraceae), Ficus, Streblus (Moraceae), Michelia, Magnolia (Magnoliaceae), Engelhartia (Juglandaceae), Hydnocarpus (Flacourtiaceae), Diospyros (Ebenaceae). Coniferous species include Keteleeria evelyniana, Dacrydium elatum, Cunninghamia knonishii, Nageia fleuryii, Dacrydium elatum, Pinus kwangtungensis, Fokienia hodginsii.. · Secondary forest regenerated after logging This forest type represents for about 10% of forest land, distributing in elevation bellow 800-900 m asl.. The forest has low timber volume (about 50-80m3/ha). In lower altitude (bellow 700m), dominated species are Saraca dives, Ormosia sp., Castacopsis sp., Gironniera subaequalis, Syzygium sp., Knema sp., Cinnamomum sp., Phoebe sp., Machilus sp., Elaeocarpus sp. At altitude above 700m asl., typical species are Castacopsis sp., Castnopsis indica, Ormosia sp., Schima wallichi, Camelia sp., genera Machilus, Phebe (Lauraceae). In limestone mountain are Tacxotrophis macrophylla, Streblus macrophyllus, Diospyros sp., Hydnocarpus sp., Garcinia obolongifolia, etc. · Secondary forest regenerated in abandoned fields This forest type represents for about 25% of forest land and mostly, recently regenerated forest with low timber volume (about 50-80m3/ha). The forest has one storey with following dominated species Trema angustifolia, Macranga denticulata, Styax tonkinensis, Mallotus paniculatus, Castanopsis, Engelhardtia roburghiana, E. spicata, Schima wallichii, Ormosia sp., Phoebe sp., Gironiera subaequalis, Cratoxylon polyanthum, Wendlandia paniculata, Rhus rhetsoides, etc. · Scrubland and Grassland Scrublands are found at altitude bellow 800m asl. Dominated species are Cratoxylon polyanthum, C. pruńlirium, Aporosa sphaerosperma, A. serrata, Phyllanthus emblica, Phyllanthus reticulatus, genera Alchonea, Croton, Mallotus Euphorbiaceae, Flemingia, Desmodium (Fabaceae), Ardisia (Myrisinaceae, etc. This vegetation type can develop into tall forest if effective protection is taken place. 26 Grasslands are found widely in open lands at altitude bellow 1,000m asl. Dominated species are Saccharum spontaneum, Thysanolaena maxima, Miscanthus japonica, Imperata cylindrica, etc. 1.3.2. Flora Flora of Xuan Nha NR is poorly studied. Our preliminary investigation together with previous studies FPD Son La (2003) and IEBR (2006) has recorded 851 species of high vascular plants belonging to 458 genera, 144 families and 6 phyla. A list of all recorded plant species is presented in Annex 1 and taxa diversity of the flora is shown in Table 1.2. A complete list of flora in Xuan Nha NR has not obtained yet, however, it enough to show very high species diversity of the flora. Table 1.2. Taxa diversity of flora in Xuan Nha NR Phyllum Families Genera Species 1. Psilotophyta 1 1 1 2. Lycopodiophyta 2 3 8 3. Equisetophyta 1 1 2 4. Polypodiophyta 17 27 45 5. Pinophyta 6 11 18 6. Magnoliophyta 117 415 777 - Magnoliopsida 100 367 714 - Liliopsida 17 48 63 Total: 144 458 851 The flora contains 81 endemic species (9.5% of total species lists) and 61 threatened species (about 16% ) (Annex 5). Out of 81 endemic species to Vietnam, 49 species are endemic to North Vietnam. Threatened species include 33 nationally threatened species (enlisted in Vietnam Red Data Book, 2007) and 35 globally threatened species (enlisted in IUCN Red List, 2008). Out of them, 15 species are very highly threatened (globally and/or nationally threatened at CR and EN) (Table 1.3). Table 1.3. Number of threatened plant species in Xuan Nha NR Threatened category VN IUCN Very highly threatened species RDB RL (Global: CR, EN & National: CR, EN) Critically Endangered 4 Hopea chinensis; Hopea mollissimia; (CR) Podocarpus pilgeri, Vatica diospyroides, Endangered (EN) 8 4 Amentotaxus yunnanensis, Burretiodendron Vulnerable (VU) 25 10 tonkinensis, Cinnamomum balansae, 27 Near threatened (NT) 2 Parashorea chinensis, Acanthopanax trifoliatus, Low Risk (LR) 12 Calocedrus macrolepis, Drynaria fortunei, Data deficient (DD) 3 Fokienia hodginsii, Madhuca pasquieri, Total: 33 35 Pauldopia ghorta, Sindora tonkinensis Notes: CR - Critically Endangered ; EN - Endangered; VU- Vulnerable; NT - Near Threatened (NT); LR - Low Risk; DD - Data Deficient (DD) Threatened categories are determined in both Vietnam Red Data Book and IUCN Red List as following: - A taxon is Critically Endangered (CR) when facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in near future. - A taxon is Endangered (EN) when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in near future. - A taxon is Vulnerable (VU) when it is not Critically Endangered or Endangered, but is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild. - A taxon is Near Threatened (NT) or Low Risk (LR) when it has been evaluated against the criteria but does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is close to qualifying for or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future. - A taxon is Data Deficient (DD) when there is inadequate information to make a direct, or indirect, assessment of its risk of extinction based on its distribution and/or population status. Data Deficient is not a category of threat. Listing of taxa in this category indicates that more information is required and acknowledges the possibility that future research will show that threatened classification is appropriate. 1.3.3. Fauna Fauna of Xuan Nha NR is poorly studied. Our preliminary investigation together with previous studies of Nguyen Van Sang et al. (2003) and IEBR (2006) have recorded 283 species of vertebrate animals including 69 mammal species, 147 bird species, 44 reptile species and 23 amphibian species. A list of all recorded animal species is presented in Annex 2,3, 4 and taxa diversity of the fauna is shown in Table 1.4. Table 1.4. Taxa diversity of fauna in Xuan Nha NR Animals Species Families Orders Mammals 69 25 9 Birds 147 39 14 Reptiles 44 16 2 Amphibians 23 5 1 Total: 283 85 26 28 This is obviously an un-complete list. Further studies will add more species to the list, however, this already indicates high diversity of fauna in Xuan Nha NR. Moreover, the fauna contains 49 threatened species (about 17.3% ) including 25 species of mammals, 2 species of birds, 21 species of reptiles and 1 species of amphibians (Table 1.5 ). Table 1.5. Number of threatened animal species in Xuan Nha NR Threatened VN IUCN Very highly threatened species category RDB RL (Globally: CR, EN & Nationally: CR, EN) Critical (CR) 4 3 Cuora trifasciata, Panthera tigris, Cuon alpinus, Endangered (EN) 17 10 Nomascus concolor, Platysternon megacephatum, Pyxidea mouhoti, Palea steindachneri, Panthera Vulnerable (VU) 20 13 pardus, Python molurus, Ophiophagus hannah, Near threatened (NT 6 Trachypithecus francoisi, Manis pentadactyla, Low Risk (LR) 2 Catopuma temminckii, Helarctos malayanus , Data deficient (DD) Ursus thibetanus , Bos frontalis, Capricornis sumatraensis, Petaurista elegans, Varanus Total: 43 29 salvator, Ptyas korros, P. mucosus, Bungarus fasciatus, Naja atra, Cuora galbinifrons. They are 43 nationally threatened species (24 species of mammals, 1 species of birds, 17 species of reptiles and 1 species of amphibians) and 29 globally threatened species (19 species of mammals, 1 species of birds, 8 species of reptiles and 1 species of amphibians). Out of them, 24 species are very highly threatened (Table 1.5). Two endemic species herpetofauna were recorded in Xuan Nha; they are Mabuya chapaensis and Paa verrucospinosa. In addition, of great national and global conservation importance are primate and testudinate (turtles and tortoises) faunas of the NR. Totally, seven primate species were recorded in Xuan Nha NR, including Bengal Slow Loris Nycticebus bengalensis, Pygmy Slow Loris Nycticebus pygmaeus, Stump-tailed Macaque Macaca arctoides, Assam Macaque Macaca assamensis, Rhesus Monkey Macaca mulatta, Grey Langur Trachypithecus crepusculus, Delacour's Langur Trachypithecus francoisi, Western Black-crested Gibbon Nomascus concolor. All species are globally and/or nationally threatened species. Western Black-crested Gibbon has very restricted range, remained in very few areas of Northeast Vietnam and Quangxi, Yunnan (China). The species receives very high conservation attention. Unfortunately, in Xuan Nha NR, the species is only tentatively recorded through interview and needs further study. Six testudinates species were recorded in Xuan Nha NR, five of them are very highly globally threatened including Big-headed Turtle Platysternon megacephatum (EN), Indochinese Box Turtle Cuora galbinifrons (CR), Keeled Box Turtle Pyxidea mouhoti (EN), Impressed Tortoise Manouria impressa (VU) and Wattle-necked Softshell Turtle Palea steindachneri (EN). Other species is Chinese Striped-neck turtle Ocadia sinensis. 29 1.4. BIODIVERSITY VALUES OF PU HU NR 1.4.1. Vegetation cover Two main forest types in Pu Hu NR are Tropical monsoon dense moist forest in altitude bellow 700m asl. and Sub-tropical monsoon dense moist forest in altitude above 700m asl. The primary forest occupies only about 40% of total NR's area. The rests are secondary forests of different succession status which are results of regeneration from selected logging and shifting agricultural cultivation, namely, Secondary regenerating forest, Scrubland and Grasslands (Map 4) · Tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest This forest type has an area of about 1,000 ha and occurs mainly in Strict protection zone at altitude bellow 700m. The forest has timber volume of about 300-400m3/ha and 5 storeys including 3 tree storeys. Tree storeys are dominated by following timber species: Vatica fleuryana, Anamocarya sinensis, Parashorea chinensis, Nephelium melliferum, Pometia pinnata, Aglaia dasyclada, Chisocheton thorelli, Disoxylum tonkinensis,... · Sub-tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest This forest has an area of about 3,000-3,500ha and occurs in Strict protection zone at altitude above 700m asl. The forest has timber volume of about 250-300m3/ha and 2 tree storeys, without merging storey. Dominated trees are of following species:Vatica fleuryana, Anamocarya sinensis, Paramichelia baillonii, Michelia mediocris, Diospyros apiculata, D. petelotii, Aglaia dasyclada, Dinocarpus fumatus, Nephelium melliferum, Pometia pinnata, species of following genera: Castanopsis, Lithocarpus, Quercus (Fagaceae), Beilschmiedia, Machilus, Cinnamomum (Lauraceae), etc. There are some coniferous species such as Nageia fleuryi, Podocarpus neriifolius, Fokienia hodginsii. However, they have low abundance and scattered distribution. · Secondary forest regenerated after logging or shifting cultivation: This forest type have large area, representing about 40% of total NR area. The forest has low timber volume (about 50-80m3/ha). The species composition is complicated with representatives of many families such as Lauraceae, Myristicaceae, Fabaceae, Fagaceae, Judlandaceae, Theaceae, Ulmaceae, Euphorbiaceae, etc. · Scrubland and Grassland This is degraded vegetation type formulated by shifting cultivation and over logging. Scrublands are found at altitude bellow 900m asl. Dominated species are 30 Map 4. Vegetation cover of Pu Hu NR 31 Cratoxylon polyanthum, C. prunilirium, Aporosa sphaerosperma, A. serrata, Phyllanthus emblica, Phyllanthus reticulatus, etc. Grasslands are found widely in open lands at altitude bellow 1,000m asl. Dominated species are Saccharum spontaneum, Thysanolaena maxima, Miscanthus japonica, Imperata cylindrica, etc. 1.4.2. Flora Flora of Pu Hu NR is poorly studied. Our preliminary investigation together with previous study by Le Trong Trai et al. (1998) has recorded 753 species of higher vascular plants belonging to 368 genera, 139 families and 6 phyla. A list of all recorded plant species is presented in Annex 1 and taxa diversity of the flora is shown in Table 1.6. This list of flora in Pu Hu NR is un-completed , however, it shows very high species and taxa diversity of the flora. Table 1.6. Taxa diversity of flora in Pu Hu NR Phyllum Families Genera Species 1. Psilotophyta 1 1 1 2. Lycopodiophyta 2 3 10 3. Equisetophyta 1 1 2 4. Polypodiophyta 13 19 29 5. Pinophyta 5 6 9 6. Magnoliophyta 108 338 702 - Magnoliopsida 93 297 644 - Liliopsida 15 41 58 Total: 130 368 753 The flora contains 76 endemic species (10.1% of total species lists) and 49 threatened species (about 6.5 % ) (Annex 5). Out of 76 endemic species to Vietnam, 40 species are endemic to North Vietnam. Threatened species include 30 nationally threatened species and 41 globally threatened species Out of them, 15 species are very highly threatened (Table 1.7). Table 1.7. Number of threatened plant species in Pu Hu NR Threatened category VN IUCN Very highly threatened species RDB RL (Globally: CR, EN & Nationally: CR, EN) Critical (CR) 1 5 Aquilaria crassna, Diospyros mun, Hopea Endangered (EN) 9 4 chinensis; Hopea mollissimia, Vatica Vulnerable (VU) 20 8 diospyroides, Burretiodendron tonkinensis, Near threatened (NT) 2 Erythrophleum fordii, Parashorea chinensis 32 Low Risk (LR) 8 Smilax petelotii, Acanthopanax trifoliatus, Data deficient (DD) 4 Sindora tonkinensis, Drynaria fortunei, Fokienia Total: 30 41 hodginsii, Madhuca pasquieri, Pauldopia ghorta 1.4.3. Fauna Preliminary faunal list of Pu Hu NR recorded during our survey and survey by Le Trong Trai et al. (1998) consists 260 species of vertebrate animals including 59 mammal species, 161 bird species, 27 reptile species and 13 amphibian species. A list of all recorded animal species is presented in Annex 2,3, 4 and taxa diversity of the fauna is shown in Table 1.8. Further studies will certainly add more species to the this un- completed list, however, this list already indicates high diversity of fauna of the NR. Table 1.8. Taxa diversity of fauna in Pu Hu NR Animals Species Families Orders Mammals 59 23 8 Birds 161 37 11 Reptiles 27 14 3 Amphibians 13 4 1 Total: 260 78 23 The fauna contains 44 threatened species (about 17.3% ) including 26 species of mammals, 2 species of birds, 14 species of reptiles and 2 species of amphibians (Table 1.9). They are 42 nationally threatened species (25 species of mammals, 2 species of birds, 13 species of reptiles and 2 species of amphibians) and 33 globally threatened species (23 species of mammals, 9 species of Reptiles and 1 species of Amphibians). Out of them, 26 species are very highly threatened (Table 1.9). One endemic species was recorded in Pu Hu NR as frog Paa verrucospinosa which is nationally threatened at VU (Vulnerable) and globally threatened at NT (Near threatened). Like in Xuan Nha NR, Primate and testudinate (turtles and tortoises) faunas of the Pu Hu NR should have great national and global conservation importance. Seven primate species were recorded in Pu Hu NR, including Bengal Slow Loris Nycticebus bengalensis, Pygmy Slow Loris Nycticebus pygmaeus, Stump-tailed Macaque Macaca arctoides, Assam Macaque Macaca assamensis, Rhesus Monkey Macaca mulatta, Grey Langur Trachypithecus crepusculus, Delacour's Langur Trachypithecus francoisi, White-cheeked Gibbon Nomascus leucogenys . All species are globally and/or nationally threatened species. Six testudinates species were recorded in Pu Hu NR, five of them are very highly globally threatened including Chinese three-striped Box Turtle Cuora trifasciata (CR), Big-headed Turtle Platysternon megacephatum (EN), Wattle-necked Softshell Turtle Palea steindachneri (EN), Impressed Tortoise Manouria impressa (VU) and Chinese 33 softshell Turtle Pelodiscus sinensis (VU). Other species is Black-breasted Leaf Turtle Geoemyla spengleri. Table 1.9. Number of threatened animal species in Pu Hu NR Threatened category VN IUCN Very highly threatened species RDB RL (Globally: CR, EN & Nationally: CR, EN) Critical (CR) 6 3 Cuora trifasciata, Panthera tigris, Cuon alpinus, Endangered (EN) 15 9 Platysternon megacephatum, Palea steindachneri, Panthera pardus, Belomys Vulnerable (VU) 19 14 pearsonii, Python molurus, Ophiophagus Near threatened (NT) 6 hannah, Nomascus leucogenys, Trachypithecus Low Risk (LR) 2 francoisi, Manis pentadactyla, Catopuma Data deficient (DD) 1 temminckii, Neofelis nebulosa, Artictis binturong, Helarctos malayanus , Ursus thibetanus , Bos frontalis, Capricornis sumatraensis, Petaurista elegans, Varanus Total: 42 33 salvator, Ptyas korros, Ptyas mucosus, Bungarus fasciatus, Naja atra and Cuora galbinifrons. 34 Tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest in Xuan Nha NR Secondary tropical dense evergreen forest in Pu Hu NR 35 Tropical dense evergreen forest in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR Natural forest along Ma River ­ Buffer zone of Pu Hu NR 36 1.5. BIODIVERSITY VALUES OF HANG KIA ­ PA CO NR 1.5.1. Vegetation cover There are 3 main forest types found in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR: Tropical monsoon dense moist forest in altitude bellow 700m asl., Limestone sub-tropical monsoon dense moist forest in altitude above 700m asl. and Mixed broadleaf-coniferous sub-tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest. The primary forest occupies only about 40% of total NR's area. The rests are secondary forests in different succession status which are results of regeneration from logging and shifting agricultural cultivation, namely, Secondary regenerating forest, Scrubland and Grasslands (Map 5). · Tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest This forest type occupies about 200 ha at altitude bellow 700m belonging to Bao La, Pieng Ve Commune and a part close National road No.6. The forest has timber volume of about 300-400m3/ha and 5 storeys including 3 tree storeys. Tree storeys are dominated by following timber species: Vatica fleuryana, Parashorea chinensis, Dipterocarpus tonkinensis, Choerospondias axillaris, Castanopssis indica, Aglaia gigantea, Aphanamixis grandifolia, Annamocarya sinensis. In limestone mountains this forest type has medium timber volume ( 250-300m3/ha). In Mountain foot, the forest has 2 storeys without merge strorey. Ddominated species are Burretiodendron tonkinensis, Vatica fleuryana, Anogeissus acuminata, Garcinia fagracoides, Pomertia pinata, Annamocarya sinensis, etc. In the mountain summit, the forest has only one tree storey with domination of Tacxotrophis macrophylla, Streblus macrophyllus, Diospyros spp., Hydnocarpus sp. and some genera of Castanopsis, Lythocarpus, Magnolia, etc. · Limestone sub-tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest This forest has an area of about 2,000ha, which distributes at altitude above 700m asl. The forest has timber volume of about 250-300m3/ha and 2 timber tree storey without merge storey. Dominated tree species are from genera Lithocarpus, Quercus (Fabaceae); Machillus, Phoebe, Cinnamomum (Lauraceae); Ficus, Streblus (Moraceae); Michelia, Magnolia (Magnoliaceae); Engelhartia (Juglandaceae), Hydnocarpus (Flacourtiaceae), Ormosia (Fabaceae), Diospyros (Ebenaceae). · Mixed Broadleaf-coniferous Sub-tropical monsoon dense evergreen moist forest This forest type occurs in kind of small formations distributed scatterely in mountain slope at altitude above 800m asl. Broad leave species are from genera Lithocarpus, Quercus 37 Map 5. Vegetation cover of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR 38 (Fabaceae); Machillus, Phoebe, Cinnamomum (Lauraceae), Ficus, Streblus (Moraceae), Michelia, Magnolia (Magnoliaceae). Coniferous species represent for about 15%-20%, including Nageia fleuryii, Pinus kwangtungensis, Podocarpus neriifolius, Taxus chinensis. · Secondary forest regenerated after logging This forest type occupies about 1,000ha, distributing altitude bellow 800-900 m asl., mainly at 300-900m asl. The forest has low timber volume (about 50-80m3/ha). The forest has 2 tree storeys, however, most of large trees have been logged, remaining only small trees. Light-tolerant plants represents high percentage (25-30%). The forest can restore if effective protection is taken place. · Secondary forest regenerated in abandoned fields This forest type has an area of about 1,200 ha, widely distributed at altitude 200-700m asl. This is recently regenerated forest with low timber volume (about 30-40m3/ha). The forest has one storey with dominated species as Engelhardtia roxburghiana, E. spicata, Mallotus paniculatus, Macaranga deticulata, Schima walichii, Castanopsis spp., Phoebe spp., etc. · Scrubland and Grassland Scrublands are found at altitude bellow 900m asl. with an area of about 1,800 ha. Dominated species are Rhodomyrtus tomentosa), Wendlandia paniculata, Psichotria montana, Aprosa mycrocalyx, Aporosa planchonania, Antidesma sp., Achornea rugosa, Achornea tiliaefolia, Cratoxylon polyanthum, C. prunifoliu, etc. Grasslands are found widely in open lands at altitude bellow 1,000m asl. Dominated species are Saccharum spontaneum, Thysanolaena maxima, Miscanthus japonica, Imperata cylindrica, etc. 1.5.2. Flora Flora of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is poorly studied. Preliminary investigation has recorded 589 species of high vascular plants belonging to to 339 genera, 125 families and 6 phyla. A list of all recorded plant species is presented in Annex 1 and taxa diversity of the flora is shown Table 1.10. The species list shows high species diversity of the flora in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR. Table 1.10. Taxa diversity of flora in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR Phyllum Families Genera Species 1. Psilotophyta 1 1 1 2. Lycopodiophyta 2 3 8 39 3. Equisetophyta 1 1 2 4. Polypodiophyta 12 24 35 5. Pinophyta 6 12 14 6. Magnoliophyta 103 298 529 - Magnoliopsida 88 257 478 - Liliopsida 15 41 51 Total: 125 339 589 The flora contains 45 endemic species (7.6 % of total species lists) and 40 threatened species (about 6.8 % ) (Annex 5). There is no species which is endemic to Northern Vietnam. Threatened species include 21 nationally threatened species and 27 globally threatened species. Out of them, 10 species are very highly threatened (species which are globally and/or nationally threatened at CR and EN) (Table 1.11). Table 1.11. Number of threatened plant species in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR Threatened category VN IUCN Very highly threatened species RDB RL (Global: CR, EN & National: CR, EN) Critical (CR) 2 Podocarpus pilgeri, Vatica diospyroides, Endangered (EN) 5 4 Amentotaxus yunnanensis, Burretiodendron Vulnerable (VU) 16 6 tonkinensis, Melodinus annamensis, Parashorea Near threatened (NT) 2 chinensis, Acanthopanax trifoliatus, Fokienia Low Risk (LR) 11 hodginsii, Madhuca pasquieri, Pauldopia ghorta Data deficient (DD) 2 Total: 21 27 1.5.3. Fauna Preliminary studies have recorded 249 species of vertebrate animals including 44 mammal species, 142 bird species, 40 reptile species and 23 amphibian species. A list of all recorded animal species is presented in Annex 2,3, 4 and taxa diversity of the fauna is shown in Table 1.12. The list of 249 species indicates high diversity of fauna in Hang Kia ­ Pa Ko NR. Table 1.12. Taxa diversity of fauna in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR Animals Species Families Orders Mammals 44 20 8 Birds 142 38 14 Reptiles 40 12 2 Amphibians 23 6 2 Total: 249 76 26 40 The fauna contains 37 threatened species (about 17.3% ) including 14 species of mammals, 3 species of birds, 17 species of reptiles and 3 species of amphibians (Table 1.13 ). They are 33 nationally threatened species (14 species of mammals, 3 species of birds, 13 species of reptiles and 3 species of amphibians) and 21 globally threatened species (12 species of mammals, 1 species of birds, 7 species of reptiles and 1 species of amphibians). Out of them, 17 species are very highly threatened (Table 1.13). Four endemic species herpetofauna were recorded in Xuan Nha; they are Boiga multomaculata, Chaparana delacouri, Rana maosonensis and Paa verrucospinosa. Table 1.13. Number of threatened animal species in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR Threatened category VN IUCN Very highly threatened species RDB RL (Global: CR, EN & National: CR, EN) Critical (CR) 3 1 Cuora galbinifrons, Cuon alpinus, Pyxidea Endangered (EN) 12 6 mouhoti, Sacalia quadriocellata, Indotestudo elongala, Palea steindachneri, Belomys Vulnerable (VU) 16 8 pearsonii, Python molurus, Ophiophagus Near threatened (NT) 5 hannah, Manis pentadactyla, Catopuma Low Risk (LR) 3 temminckii, Ursus thibetanus, Capricornis Data deficient (DD) 1 sumatraensis, Ptyas korros, Ptyas mucosus, Bungarus fasciatus, Naja atra. Total: 34 21 1.6. SUMMARY OF BIODIVERSITY VALUES FROM 3 NRs IN TSHPP AREA Generally, 3 NRs of TSHPP (Xuan Nha NR, Pu Hu NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR) are covered by Tropical and Sub-tropical dense evergreen moist forests. These forest types are also typical for Northwest Vietnam. At present, about 40 ­ 45 % of the forest types still remains in primary status, other portion has been converted into various anthropogenic types due to human impacts during many recent decades. As the results, 9 vegetation types are found in these NRs today (Table 1.14). Table 1.14. Main vegetation types in 3 NRs of TSHPP basin No. Vegetation type Pu Hu Xuan Nha HKPC NR NR NR 1. Montane tropical monsoon dense + + + evergreen moist forest 2. Limestone tropical monsoon dense + + + evergreen moist forest 3. Montane sub-tropical monsoon dense + + evergreen moist forest 4. Limestone sub-tropical monsoon dense + + evergreen moist forest 5. Mixed broadleaf-coniferous sub-tropical + + 41 monsoon dense evergreen moist forest 6. Secondary forest regenerated after + + + logging 7. Secondary forest regenerated in + + + abandoned fields 8. Bamboo forest regenerated in abandoned + + fields 9. Scrubland and Grassland + + + Totally, 936 species of higher vascular plants belonging to 505 genera, 145 families and 6 phyla have been recorded in the 3 NRs (Table 1.15).This indicates very high species diversity of flora in the 3 NRs. Table 1.15. Taxa diversity of flora in 3 NRs of TSHPP basin Phyla Families Genera Species 1. Psilotophyta 1 1 1 2. Lycopodiophyta 2 3 11 3. Equisetophyta 1 1 2 4. Polypodiophyta 17 36 68 5. Pinophyta 6 13 18 6. Magnoliophyta 118 451 836 - Magnoliopsida 101 405 771 - Liliopsida 17 46 65 Total 145 505 936 The flora is also characterized by high portion of endemic and threatened species. Out of 936 recorded species, 93 species are endemic to Vietnam or Northern Vietnam, 39 nationally threatened species and 41 globally threatened species (Table 1.16) Table 1.16: Endemic and threatened species of flora in 3 NRs Threatened category VN RDB IUCN RL Endemic species Critical (CR) 1 6 Endemic to Vietnam: Endangered (EN) 10 6 40 Vulnerable (VU) 28 11 Near threatened (NT) 2 Endemic to Northern Low Risk (LR) 1 Vietnam: Data deficient (DD) 4 53 Total: 39 41 93 Total number of vertebrate animals recorded in 3 NRs is 425 species, including 79 mammal species, 258 bird species, 58 reptile species and 30 amphibian species (Table 42 1.17). This is un-completed list of wildlife species in 3 NRs, however, it shows high faunal diversity of 3 NRs in TSHPP basin. Table 1.17. Taxa diversity of fauna in 3 NRs Animals Species Families Orders Mammals 79 26 9 Birds 258 44 14 Reptiles 58 16 2 Amphibians 30 6 2 Total: 425 92 27 The fauna is also characterized by high percentage of threatened species. Out of 425 recorded species, 56 species are nationally threatened and 33 species are globally threatened species (Table 1.18). Only 5 endemic species are recorded in the NRs including 2 reptile species and 3 amphibian species. Table 1.18. Threatened and endemic species of fauna in 3 NRs Animal VN Red Data Book (2007) IUCN Red List ( 2008) classes CR EN VU LR Total CR EN VU NT DD Total Mammals 3 13 12 1 29 2 5 13 3 1 24 Birds 2 2 4 1 1 2 Reptiles 3 8 8 19 2 5 2 1 10 Amphibians 4 4 1 1 Total 6 21 26 3 56 4 10 16 6 1 37 Primate and Testudinata faunas in 3 NRs are of special conservation interest. Totally, 9 primate species were recorded and all of them are globally and/or nationally endangered; 12 species of turtles and tortoises were recorded and 10 of them are globally and/or nationally endangered. 1.7. BIODIVERSITY VALUES OF AFFECTED AREAS OUTSIDE NRs During construction phase, TSHPP will occupy about 3,644.88 ha of land as the construction footprint including about 400 ha for construction work ground, about 1,538.95 ha for reservoir, 1,644.5 ha for FR&FCAs, 51.45 ha for Co Luong ­ Co Me transportation road and 10 ha for other access roads. This land is a part of buffer zones of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR and belongs to Trung Son, Trung Ly, Muong Ly, Tam Chung (Thanh Hoa Province) Tan Xuan and Xuan Nha communes (Son La province). The area disturbed by 43 TSHPP constructions may reach beyond its footprint size to about 4,860 ha (plus 30% of actual footprint area). · Co Luong - Co Me construction transport road Co Luong - Co Me construction transport road will be built to connect the Project headworks in Co Me Village with National road 15A in Co Co Luong Townlet. The road is located on the left bank of Ma river, 20.12 km long. In first period, the road will be gravelled with surface width of 5.5m and base width of 7.5m. In second period, the road will be paved with asphalt. The road will pass through Van Mai, Mai Hich, Phu Thanh, Thanh Son and Trung Son Communes. Current land-use of Co Luong ­ Co Me Transportation Road is shown in Table 1.19. Table 1.19. Land-use of Co Luong ­ Co Me Transportation Road (ha) Settlements Garden Rice and Plantation Natural Water Total (ha) crop field forest surface 1.92 8.99 0.43 40.06 0 0.03 51.43 Source: PECC4, 2008 Except for Co Luong ­ Co Me Transportation road, a network of several access roads to various construction sites will be constructed. Total area of this network is about 10 ha. Our investigation shows that, vegetation in construction work ground, Co Luong ­ Co Me Transportation road and access roads consists plantations (Dendrocalamus membranaceus, Chukrasia sp, Melia azedarach and Eucalyptus sp.) and small area of grassland and scrubland which have very low biodiversity values. · Fixed resettlement and fixed cultivation areas: Four Fixed resettlement and fixed cultivation areas (FR&FCAs) have been designed in Project area. They are: 1) FR&FCA No.1 in Trung Son Commune: for 216 households and 1,030 people from Ta Pan and Xuoc Village, 2) FR&FCA No.2 in Muong Ly Commune: for 85 households and 461 people from Nang and Tai Chanh Villages 3) FR&FCA No.3 in Trung Ly Commune: for 36 households and 195 people from Lin and Chieng Villages 4) FR&FCA No.4 in Xuan Nha Commune: for 170 households and 834 people from Dong Ta Lao and Tay Ta Lao Villages. All FR&FCAs are located in buffer zone of Xuan Nha NR and Pu Hu NR (Map 1). Land- use of these FR&FCAs are shown in Table 1.20. 44 Table 1.20. Current land-use of Fixed resettlement and fixed cultivation Areas Land-use FR&FCA FR&FCA FR&FCA FR&FCA Total (ha) No.1 No.2 No.3 No.4 Forestry land 1,809.0 864.0 733.0 98.0 3,504.0 Agricultural land 229.2 228.6 68.2 162.0 688.0 Non-agricultural land 195.0 174.0 76.7 8.0 453.7 (water surface, etc.) Un-used land (bare land) 1,306.8 643.4 172.1 932.0 3,054.3 Total 3,540.0 1,910.0 1,050.0 1,200.0 7,700.0 Source: PECC4 The forestry land (3,504 ha) of FR&FCAs consists of plantation, and poor natural vegetation (exhausted forest and schrublands) with very low biodiversity values. Furthermore, this forestry land will not be used for the resettlement land-use planning, while its natural forests will be allocated to resettled households for protection. Thus, the damage of the natural forests and biodivesity by FR&FCAs will be low. · TSHPP reservoir area Largest area will be occupied by reservoir. According to Project design, at its normal water supply level (160 m asl.), the reservoir will submerge 1,568.95 ha of land, of which 1,069.35 ha is forest land including 1,001.01 ha of Luong (Dendrocalamus membranaceus) plantation and 68.34 ha of natural forest (Table 1.21). Table 1.21. Current land-use of Reservoir basin (ha) Commune Settlement Agriculture Plantation Natural forest Other* Trung Son 5.76 77.52 410.96 0 19.83 Muong Ly 3.04 5.96 179.71 27.51 46.55 Trung Ly 1.28 10.60 38.67 35.53 44.88 Tam Chung 0.16 2.0 9.71 0 15.90 Tan Xuan, 5.04 213.12 361.66 5.30 18.00 Xuan Nha Total: 15.28 309.17 1,001.01 68.34 145.16 Note: * Water surface, rockpile land Source: PECC4 TSHPP reservoir is actually a part of Ma River which will have water surface risen up to elevation of 160 m asl. This river part is about 32 km long. So forests in reservoir are a riparian forests which consists of exhausted natural forests and bamboo plantation. The Natural forests have been severely exploited for many decades, thus converting into exhausted forests, scrublands and grasslands. The vegetation is characterized by following types: 45 1) Evergreen dense broadleaved forest: This forest type occupies about 10 ha. Being distributed close to human settlements and along rivers this forest type have been severely affected by over-exploitation of timber trees. The forest still has 3 storeys including tree, bush and grass storeys. The tree storey consists of trees of 10-15 m high from common species of genera Ficus, Artocarpus (Moraceae), Wallsura, Dysoxylum (Meliaceae), and families Sapindaceae, Sapotaceae, Ebenaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Magnoliaceae, Anacardiaceae, Fagaceae, Fabaceae. Bushes storey consists of bush species and small trees of common timber species from families Acanthaceae, Ebenaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Lauraceae, Sterculiaceae, Rutacea, etc. 2) Mixed bamboo-tree forest: This type occupies about 15-20 ha. dominated in this forest type are species of following genera: Bambusa, Dendrocalamus, Neohouzeaua (Poaceae). Common tree species are from families: Dilleniaceae, Elaeocarpaceae, Euphorbiacea, etc. 3) Scrubland: consists of bushes and small timber trees of less than 5 m high. Common species are from following families and genera: Mallotus, Aporusa, Acalypha, Macaranga, Alchornea (Euphorbiaceae); Helicteres (Sterculiaceae); Fissistigma, Desmos (Annonaceae); Ilex (Aquifoliaceae); Osbekia (Melastomaceae), Myrtaceae. 4) Grassland: mostly consists of grasses of less than 50 cm high, with dominated species from family Poaceae: Brachiaria mutica, Chrysopogon aciculatus, Cynodon dactylon, Imperata cylindrica, Panicum repens, Pennisetum setosum, Eleosine indica, Brachiaria mutica... and family Fabaceae: Abrus precatorius, Calopogonium spp., Indigofera spp. In spite of being serevely degraded, this riparian forests still supports diversity of invertebrate animal species. Few vertebrate species occur in this habitats in very low density such as rodents, some bird species, lizards, snakes, frogs, etc. No threatened species were found in this habitat. Thus, this reparian forest contain low biodiversity values, however, it is important for supporting aquactic fauna in the Ma river through providing food soures (invertebrates, fruits, leaves, ect.) and preventing water pollution by river shore erosion. 46 CHAPTER 2 BIODIVERSITY COMPONENTS OF NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE 2.1. BIODIVERSITY IMPORTANCE OF PROJECT AREA TSHPP area belongs to Transition zone of Global 200 ecoregion "Greater Annamites", which contains outstanding global conservation significance (Baltzer et al., 2001). There are 3 NRs in the Project area: Xuan Nha NR, Pu Hu NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR. These NRs contains large area of typical tropical and subtropical evergreen moist forests (about 50,000 ha) with rich biodiversity. The NRs also formulate an important forest connectivity between protected areas both inside Vietnam and through national border to Lao PDR. As shown in previous section, in spite of some degradation of forests, the NRs still support very rich biodiversity. Totally, 936 species of higher vascular have been recorded, out of which 93 species are endemic to Vietnam or North Vietnam, 39 nationally threatened species and 41 globally threatened species. Preliminarily, 425 species of vertebrate animals were recorded, including 79 mammal species, 258 bird species, 58 reptile species and 30 amphibian species. Out of 425 recorded species, 56 species are nationally threatened and 33 species are globally threatened species and 5 endemic species. These biodiversity components have been supported livelihood of local communities for thousands of years. They provides the communities with materials for constructions and making instruments (timber, wood, bamboo, etc.), fuel sources (wood, charcoal,..), foods (animals and NTFPs), medicines (many animal and plant species), etc. They also play important role in watershed protection for Ma, Luong and Da rivers and providing various important environment services such as prevention of erosion, control flood and drought, climate regulation, etc. 2.2. BIODIVERSITY COMPONENTS OF NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE IN PROJECT AREA Three (3) NRs in Project area contain large number of biodiversity components of national and international conservation significance (NICS). As a rule, components of NICS may consists of endemic and threatened species; rare ecosystems/habitats and communities/ populations of special conservation values. Following biodiversity components of NICS have been found in the Project area. 2.2.1. Ecosystems of NICS 47 Tropical evergreen forests and sub-tropical evergreen forests in 3 NRs support rich biodiversity values and are typical forest types of North Vietnam. Conservation of these forests are defined as primary objective of the NRs. Moreover, in Vietnam, tropical evergreen forests (or Lowland tropical forest at altitude below 800m asl.) have been the most severely destroyed for settlement of economic development remaining and represents as small proportion within national protected areas. Being located in low elevations, both forest ecosystems will most face negative impacts of TSHPP, therefore, it is necessary to have relevant measures to safeguard these ecosystems . 2.2.2. Communities of NICS In Project area, 143 plant species are endemic and nationally or globally threatened, however, most of the species are wide spread in Southeast Asia or in Vietnam; no species which have number large enough to become a nationally or globally important population. Similarly, 62 species of animals are identified as nationally and/or globally threatened, but all these species either have wide distribution range and/or very low numbers in TSHPP area, so no populations would have special NISC. Five (5) endemic species of animals were found in the Project area. They are also found in other areas of the country and their population size in the Project area is un-known, very likely is very small. However, there are 2 faunal groups worth of special attention; they are Primates (Primates) and Tortoises and Turtles (Testudinata). Totally, 9 primate species were recorded in Project area and all of them are globally and/or nationally endangered (Table 2.3). Bearing high economic value, Primates are facing excessive hunting pressure throughout its range and therefore, Primate conservation is a focus of world conservation effort. Unlike most of other wildlife species, Primates are active in daylight time when most of construction activities of TSHPP will be undertaken, therefore, Primates will very like be most affected by the construction activities of TSHPP. Turtles and Tortoises are also one of highly threatened groups. Twelve (12) species of turtles and tortoises were recorded and 9 of them are globally and/or nationally endangered (Table 2.3). High economic value (for food, traditional medicine and pet trade), easy catching and slow growth rate have made this as extensive hunting targets and rapidly declined through this threat. These animals are, therefore, very vulnerable by accumulation of large number of workers and followers during TSHPP construction. These wildlife groups should be carefully monitored during TSHPP construction to prevent/ mitigate any negative impacts on them. 2.2.3. Species of NICS · Selection criteria Species of NICS were defined as threatened animal and plant species which have been enlisted in Red Data Book of Vietnam (2007) and IUCN Red List (2007) and also 48 endemic species which have a range limited to Vietnam or even to its certain areas. As a rule, these species have low number of individuals in the wild and are facing with danger of extinction due to various factors (trapping and hunting, over-exploitation, forest fire and forest clearance for agriculture, etc.). They will be extinct from the wild unless strong and effective conservation measures are undertaken. Totally, 143 plant species and 67 animal species recorded in Project area are identified as species of NICS (Table 2.3). Theses include 98 endemic species (93 plant and 5 animal species); 95 nationally threatened species (39 plant and 56 animal species) and 80 globally threatened species (43 plant and 37 animal species) (Table 2.1). Table 2.1. Number of plant and animal species with NICS recorded in Project area Plants Animals Total Nature reserve Conservation significance (species) (Species) (Species) Red Data Book of Vietnam 29 43 72 Pu Hu NR IUCN Red List 32 32 64 Endemic to Vietnam 76 1 77 Red Data Book of Vietnam 33 47 80 Xuan Nha NR IUCN Red List 35 32 67 Endemic to Vietnam 81 1 82 Red Data Book of Vietnam 20 34 54 Hang Kia IUCN Red List 26 19 45 ­ Pa Co NR Endemic to Vietnam 45 4 49 Red Data Book of Vietnam 39 56 95 Total of 3 NRs IUCN Red List 42 37 79 Endemic to Vietnam 93 5 98 Within 95 nationally threatened species, 7 species are ranked as Critically Endangered (CR), 31 species as Endangered (EN), 54 species as Vulnerable (VU) and 3 species of Low risk (LR). Within 67 globally threatened species, 10 species are ranked as Critically endangered (CR), 16 species as Endangered (EN), 27 species as Vulnerable (VU), 8 species as Near threatened (NT), 1 species as Low risk (LR) and 5 species as Data deficient (DD) (Table 2.2.). Top nationally threatened species (CR) are Flora: Smilax petelotii, Mammals: Leopard Panthera pardus, Tiger Panthera tigris, Hairy-footed Flying Squirrel Belomys pearsonii; Reptiles: Burmese Python Python molurus, King Cobra Ophiophagus hannah, Chinese three-striped Box Turtle Cuora trifasciata. Top globally threatened species (CR) are Flora: Podocarpus pilgeri, Vatica diospyroides, Hopea chinensis, Hopea mollissimia, Diospyros mun, Aquilaria crassna; Mammals: 49 Western Black-crested Gibbon Nomascus concolor, Northern White-cheeked Gibbon Nomascus leucogenys leucogenis, Reptiles: Indochinese Box Turtle Cuora galbinifrons, Chinese three-striped Box Turtle Cuora trifasciata Table 2.2. Conservation status of species of NICS in Project area Taxonomic VN Red Data Book (2007) IUCN Red List ( 2008) groups CR EN VU LR Total CR EN VU NT LR DD Total Plants 1 10 28 39 6 6 11 2 12 5 42 Mammals 3 13 12 1 29 2 5 13 3 1 24 Birds 2 2 4 1 1 2 Reptiles 3 8 8 19 2 5 2 1 10 Amphibians 4 4 1 1 Total 7 31 54 3 95 10 16 27 8 12 6 79 · List of species of NICS Full list of 143 plant species of NICS is shown in Annex 5 and a list of 66 animal species of NICS is represented in Table 2.3 bellow. Table 2.3. A list of animal species of NICS found in NRs of TSHPP area VN IU Pu Xuan HK- No. Scientific name English name RDB CN Hu Nha PC I. Mammalia Mammals 1. Nycticebus bengalensis Bengal Slow Loris VU VU L,I I L,I 2. Nycticebus pygmaeus Pygmy Loris VU VU L,I C S 3. Macaca arctoides Stump-tailed Macaque VU VU S, O O L 4. Macaca assamensis Assamese Macaque VU VU I L,I I 5. Macaca mulatta Rhesus Macaque LR C,O O C 6. Trachypithecus Grey Langur VU EN I L,I crepusculus 7. Trachypithecus Delacour's Langur EN VU L,I francoisi 8. Nomascus concolor Western Black-crested EN CR L Gibbon 9. Nomascus leucogenys Northern White- EN CR L,I I leucogenis cheeked Gibbon 10. Ia io Great Evening Bat VU S 11. Manis pentadactyla Chinese Pangolin EN EN T T, S S 12. Catopuma temminckii Asian Golden Cat EN NT L L,I L 13. Neofelis nebulosa Clouded Leopard EN VU L,I 50 14. Panthera pardus Leopard CR NT L,I I 15. Panthera tigris Tiger CR EN L,I I 16. Arctictis binturong Binturong EN VU I 17. Chrotogale owstoni Owston's Palm Civet VU VU S, I L, I 18. Prionodon pardicolor Spotted Linsang VU H H M 19. Cuon alpinus Dhole EN EN L,I L,I I 20. Helarctos malayanus Sun Bear EN VU L,I I 21. Ursus thibetanus Asian Black Bear EN VU S T,I L,I 22. Lutra lutra European Otter VU NT I T,I 23. Rusa unicolor Sambar VU VU H R,I 24. Bos frontalis Gaur EN EN L,T R,I 25. Capricornis Southern Serow EN VU H S I sumatraensis 26. Ratufa bicolor Black Giant Squirrel VU NT O O S 27. Belomys pearsonii Hairy-footed Flying CR DD I L,I Squirrel 28. Petaurista elegans Spotted Giant Flying EN I Squireel 29. Petaurista philippensis Indian Giant Flying VU H O H Squirrel 30. Hystrix brachyura Porcupine VU R S H,T II. Aves Birds 31. Arborophila charltonii Scaly-breasted LR NT O Partridge 32. Lophura nycthemera Silver Pheasant LR H H,I L,H 33. Polyplectron Burmese Peacock VU C I bicalcaratum Pheasant 34. Tyto capensis Grass Owl VU R,I 35. Gallinago nemoricola Wood Snipe VU O III. Reptilia Reptiles 36. Gekko gecko Tockay VU S S O 37. Physignathus Indochinese Water VU O O L,I cocincinus Dragon 38. Varanus salvator Water Monitor EN O L,I S 39. Python molurus Burmere Python CR NT L L,I L,I 40. Elaphe radiata Copperhead Racer VU O O L,I 41. Elaphe porphyracea Black-banded Trinket VU L L,I Snake 42. E. mandarnus Mandarin Rat Snake VU L 43. E. moellendorffii Moellendorff's Rat VU O L,I Snake 44. Ptyas korros Indochinese Rat EN O O S Snake 45. P. mucosus Common Rat Snake EN L L,I 51 46. Bungarus fasciatus Banded Krait EN O L,I O 47. Naja atra Chinese Cobra EN L,I O L,I 48. Ophiophagus hannah King Cobra CR L,I O I 49. Platysternon Big-headed Turtle EN EN L,I S L,I megacephalum 50. Cuora galbinifrons Indochinese Box EN CR S I L,I Turtle 51. Cuora trifasciata Chinese three-striped CR CR L,I Box Turtle 52. Pyxidea mouhoti Keeled Box Turtle EN S L,I L, I 53. Sacalia quadriocellata Four-eyed Turtle EN S S 54. Indotestudo elongata Elongated Tortoise EN EN I O L,I 55. Manouria impressa Immpressed Tortoise VU VU L,I I 56. Palea steindachneri Wattle-necked VU EN S L,I Softshell Turtle 57. Pelodiscus sinensis Chinese softshell VU C L,I Turtle IV. Amphibia Amphibians 58. Ichthyophis bannanicus Banna Caecilian VU L,I 59. Bufo galeatus Gamboja Toad VU O 60. Paa verrucospinosa Granular Spiny Frog VU NT L,I L L,I 61. Rana andersoni Golden Crosland Frog VU L,I Endemic to Vietnam Endemic species 1. Boiga multomaculata Large-spotted cat L L snake 2. Mabuya chapaensis Sapa skink L 3. Chaparana delacouri Delacour's frog L 4. Rana maosonensis Mao son frog L 5. Paa verrucospinosa Granular Spiny Frog L L L Note: (VNRDB) Red Data Book of Vietnam (2007), (IUCN) IUCN Red List (2007), CR - Critically Endangered, EN - Endangered; VU - Vulnerable; NT - Near threatened; LR ­ Low risk, DD - Data Deficient. O - Observation; S- Specimen; H- Hunting remains; T: Track, L : Literature, I ­ Interview, C ­ Animal in captivity in local households Bengal slow loris Nycticebus bengalensis: Bengal slow loris is found from Northeastern India, through Bangladesh, North Myanmar, North Thailand, South China to Indochina. The species is rare in Vietnam and in most of its distribution range the populations are probably already drastically reduced through high hunting pressure (Nadler et al. 2007). The species is reported to exist in Xuan Nha NR, Pu Hu NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR, but the sighting rate is very low. The species is occasionally hunted by local people for meat, traditional medicine and for trade. The species was previously recorded in Xuan Nha NR by IEBR (2006) and in Hang Kia-Pa Co NR by DVZ (2000). Pygmy Loris Nycticebus pygmaeus: This species is found East of Mekong River in Vietnam, Eastern Cambodia, Laos and small part in Southeast Yunnan, in Southern China. In Vietnam, the Pygmy loris is wide-spread from North Vietnam to Ho Chi Minh City. The 52 species is heavily exploited for meat, traditional medicine and the pet trade (Nadler et al. 2007). During our investigation (April ­ May 2008), one specimen was observed in captivity in Na Hieng Village, Xuan Nha Commune (Xuan Nha NR). A dry kin of this species was found in Pa Khom Village inside Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR. The species is also reported to exist in all 3 NRs with very low encounter rate. Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta: This species has the large distribution in Southeast Asia. The species is still widespread in Northern and Central Vietnam, but hunting for traditional medicine and also for food has severely depressed the populations. In TSHPP area, Rhesus macaque was reported to exist in all 3 NRs; the animals are often seen in groups of 10- 15 individuals. During our survey, 2 groups of about 10 individuals were seen in Xuan Nha NR (near Chieng Noa Village of Tan Xuan Commune), one groups of 5- 6 individuals was seen in Pu Hu NR (near Pa Com Village of Trung Ly Commune), one captive specimen was found in Hang Kia commune (Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR) and a skin part of Rhesus macaque was found in a household in Tao Village of Trung Ly Commune (Pu Hu NR). Stump-tailed Macaque Macaca arctoides: This species has a wide distribution in Southeast Asia. In Vietnam, the species has wide distribution in Northern and Central Vietnam. The species is heavily hunted for traditional medicine and meat. The populations are likely declining rapidly throughout its range through high hunting pressure (Pham Nhat, 2002). Stump-tailed Macaque are reported to occasionally seen in all 3 NRs with groups of 4 ­ 10 individuals. During our survey, a group of about 3-4 individuals was seen near Ban Thin village of Xuan Nha Commune (Xuan Nha NR), another group of 3-4 individuals was seen on the way to Co Cai village of Trung Ly Commune (Pu Hu NR). A set of Stump-tailed Macaque bones was found in Ta Com village of Trung Ly Commune (Pu Hu NR). One individual was seen in captivity in Chieng Son Commune (Xuan Nha NR). Eating signs and droppings of possibly of Stump-tailed Macaques were found in several localities of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. In Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR, Stump-tailed Macaque is reported to exist and sometimes come to feed on corn fields inside the NR. The species was also recorded in this NR before by DVZ (2000). During our survey, no confirmed signs of this species were found in the NR. Assamese Macaque Macaca assamensis: This species has distribution from Nepal Eastwards through Bhutan, Northern Myanmar, Northern Laos, Northern Thailand, Southern China to Northern Vietnam. In Vietnam, Assamese Macaque occur from Northern Vietnam to North Central Vietnam (Quang Binh Province). This species is heavily hunted for traditional medicine and meat. The species is reported to exist in all 3 NRs, but rarely seen. The species was also previously recorded in Xuan Nha NR by IEBR (2006). During this survey, no sighting of the species was obtained. 53 Stump-tailed macaque Macaca arctoides Rhesus macaque Macaca mulatta Silver Pheasant Lophura nycthemera Burmese Peacock Pheasant Polyplectron bicalcalatum Big-headed Turtle Platysternon megacephatum Indochinese Box Turtle Cuora galbinifrons Plate 1. Some species of NICS recorded in TSHPP area 54 Grey Langur Trachypithecus crepusculus: This species id found from Central and Northwest Thailand North to Yunnan in China, East to Southwestern Laos and Northern Vietnam, and West to the coast of the Bay of Bengal. In Vietnam, this species was found from Northern Vietnam to Quang Binh Province of Central Vietnam, however, its records are very few. The major threat to this species in Vietnam is hunting for traditional medicine and for food. Grey Langur was reported to exist in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR, but with very low sighting rates. The species was previously recorded in Xuan Nha NR by IEBR (2006). Delacour's Langur Trachypithecus francoisi: This species is endemic to Vietnam. It occurs in very restricted area of about 5,000 km2. This is a typical "limestone" species and closely related to limestone ranges in Ninh Binh, Ha Nam, Hoa Binh, Thanh Hoa and Ha Tay (old) provinces. The total population is estimated to 200-250 individuals. Hunting is the primary threat facing this species (Nadler et al. 2007). Delacour's langur is tentatively recorded in Xuan Nha NR through interview of local residents. The population of the species in TSHPP area is un-known. Northern White-cheeked Gibbon Nomascus leucogenys leucogenys: This sub-species occurs in North Laos, Northwest and North Central Vietnam. In Vietnam, this gibbon was recorded West and South of Da River from Lai Chau Province in Northwestern Vietnam to Nghe An Province in Northern Central Vietnam. The population is extremely low and highly fragmented. Hunting for traditional medicine and for pet trade is major threat across the range and is the primary cause for the decline of the populations (Nadler et al., 2007). No groups of this gibbon were observed or heard during our survey, however, the subspecies was reported to exist in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. Residents in Co Cai and Ban Lin Villages of Trung Ly Commune reported to occassionally seen 2-3 groups of this gibbons in Pu Hu Mountains. And people from Ban Ngan and Ban Bun Villages of Tan Xuan Commune reported to recently hear loud call of 2 gibbon groups in Pha Luong mountains of Xuan Nha NR. Mr. Dat ­ Deputy director of Pu Hu NR informed an alive gibbon was confiscated from Trung Ly Commune 3 year ago. Do Tuoc and Le Trong Trai (1999) also reported about gibbon record in Pu Hu NR in their 1999 survey. Western Black-crested Gibbon Nomascus concolor: This species occurs in North Laos, Northern part of Yunnan Province, China and Northern Vietnam in Lao Cai, Yen Bai, and Son La Province. The biggest threats to this gibbon throughout its range include hunting and destructive forest use (Nadler et al. 2007). This gibbon was previously recorded in Xuan Nha NR in survey by FPD Son La (2003). During our survey, no signs of its existence were obtained, though, local residents report to very rarely sight it in the NR. Chinese Pangolin Manis pentadactyla: This species occurs in India, Nepal, Myanmar, South China, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. The major threat is hunting pressure for meat 55 and traditional medicine. In Vietnam, Chinese pangolin occurs in North and Central Vietnam. The populations have severely reduced through hunting pressure. The species was recorded in Pu Hu NR by Do Tuoc and Le Trong Trai (1999) and in Xuan Nha NR by IEBR (2006). During this survey, Chinese pangolin is reported to exist in all NRs but with very low density. Scales of this species were found in Pa Hang village, Hang Kia Commune (Hang Kia-Pa Co NR), the scales were reported from pangolin which was caught in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR about 5 years ago. A fresh burrow of this species were found in Pu Hu NR (Trung Ly Commune). Dhole Cuon alpinus: This species has wide distribution in Southern and Southeastern Asia. In Vietnam, dhole was widespread throughout the country, however, the populations have been severely reduced through high hunting pressure. This species was recorded in Pu Hu NR by Do Tuoc and Le Trong Trai (1999) and in Xuan Nha NR by IEBR (2006). No signs of this species were found during this survey, however, local residents reported to occasionally seen the animals in 3 NRs. Asian Black Bear Ursus thibetanus: This species has wide distribution in Southeast Asia. In Vietnam, this bear is wide-spread in North and Central Vietnam, however, the populations have been severely reduced through hunting for meat and traditional medicine. Asian Black bear was previously recorded in Pu Hu NR by Do Tuoc and Le Trong Trai (1999) and in Xuan Nha NR by FPD Son La (2003). One stuff specimen of bear hunted from Pu Hu NR about 4-5 years ago stays in head quarter office of Pu Hu NR. During this survey, the bear was reported to exist in all 3 NRs. Signs of paw scratches were observed on a tall forest near Ban Tao Village of Trung Ly Commune (Pu Hu NR) and near Na Sang village of Xuan Nha Commune (Xuan Nha NR). Sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) is also reported by local residents to exist in Xuan Nha NR and Pu Hu NR but much rarer than Asian Black Bear. Owston's Palm Civet Chrotogale owstoni: This species has restricted range in Vietnam, Laos and Southern part of Yunnan, China. The species is heavily hunted for meat and pet trade. In Vietnam, this civet is widespread in Northern and Central Vietnam. The population has been severely reduced through its range through heavy hunting pressure. Previously, this species was recorded in Pu Hu NR by Do Tuoc and Le Trong Trai (1999) and in Xuan Nha NR by FPD Son La (2003). During this survey, the species is reported to exist in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR, but not in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR. One skin of this species was observed in Pa Quan Guard Station of Pu Hu NR. The skin was reported to be confiscated from hunter in Trung Ly Commune 2 years ago. Gaur Bos frontalis: This species occurs in Southeast Asia and also in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and extreme South China. Populations throughout region greatly reduced due to loss of habitat and excessive hunting. In Vietnam, the species occurs in Northwest Vietnam and Central Vietnam. The populations are small and severely fragmented. Gaur is 56 reported to exist in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. One old head of this species was seen in Chieng Ve village of Chieng Son Commune (Xuan Nha NR). As reported by Xuan Nha MB, the gaur population of Xuan Nha NR consists of at least 14 ­ 16 individuals, they are often seen in Thung Ngup area close to Frontier Station No. 473. In Pu Hu NR, a group of 4-6 individuals of gaur is often seen in forest area along Trung Thanh, Trung Son and Trung Ly Communes. A number of cattle tracks were observed in this area during our survey, however, it was difficult to identify if tracks belong to wild cattle or domestic ones. Southern Serow Naemorhedus sumatraensis: This species has distribution in Southeast Asia and also in Sumatra. The populations were much reduced and main threats are loss of forest habitat and illegal hunting. In Vietnam. Southern serrow is wide-spread in North and Central Vietnam. This species is reported to exist in all 3 NRs. Horns of this species were observed in some households in Xuan Nha (Thin and Na Hieng Village) and Tan Xuan Commune (Ban Buop Village) of Xuan Nha NR. Forest rangers of Xuan Nha NR also reported to sight the animals during their patrolling. Horns of skin part of serrow were also found in Ta Com village and Tao Village of Trung Ly Communes (Pu Hu NR). Scaly-breasted Partridge Arborophila charltonii: This species occurs in Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia. Sub-species Arborophila charltonii tonkinensis is endemic to Vietnam. The sub-species has distribution in North and Central Vietnam. The populations have been declined by hunting for food and pet trade (MOST & VAST, 2007). Two individuals of this subspecies was observed in Thung Ang Valley of Hang Kia Communes (Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR) on 13, May 2008. Silver Pheasant Lophura nycthemera: This pheasant has distribution in South China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Campuchia and Vietnam. In Vietnam, this species has wide distribution ranging from North Vietnam to Northern part of South Vietnam with 2 endemic subspecies: Lophura nycthemera annamensis and Lophura nycthemera beli. The populations in Vietnam have been declined through hunting and habitat destruction (MOST & VAST, 2007). During this survey, this pheasant is reported to exist in all 3 NRs, feathers of hunted animals were found in Ta Com and Ban Lin villages of Trung Ly Commune (Pu Hu NR), Ban Lay Village of Tan Xuan Commune (Xuan Nha NR) and Pa Khom Village of Hang Kia Commune (Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR). A pair of this species was observed in captivity in Pa Quan Village of Trung Ly Commune (Pu Hu NR. The animals live mainly lowland secondary forests and therefore are heavily hunted for food and pet trade. Burmese Peacock Pheasant Polyplectron bicalcaratum: This pheasant occurs in Northeast Thailand, Laos, South China (Yunnan) and Vietnam with 2 subspecies: P.b.bicalcaratum and P.b. ghigii. Both subspecies occur in Vietnam. Subspecies P.b.bicalcaratum is found in Northwest Vietnam and subspecies P.b. ghigii which is 57 endemic to Vietnam is found in from Northeast Vietnam to North Central Vietnam (Da Nang Province). The populations have been rapidly declined through hunting and habitat loss. The pheasants are hunted for food and pet trade. This species is reported to exist in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. A pair of this species was observed in captivity in Pa Quan Village of Trung Ly Commune (Pu Hu NR). Residents of Pa Quan, Co Cai and Lin village of Trung Ly Commune reported to occasionally sight the pheasant in the NR. Wood Snipe Gallinago nemoricola: This species occurs in Bhutan, China, India, Laos, Nepal and North Viet Nam. It breeds from April-June, in alpine meadows and marshes generally between 3,000 and 5,000 m, at least occasionally down to 2,100 m. In winter, it frequents swampy ground in and at the edge of evergreen forest and marshy grassland and scrub, below 3,000 m, sometimes down to lowland plains bellow 100 m (IUCN, 2008). In Vietnam, this species was found in North Vietnam. Major threats to its population is hunting and loss and degradation of evergreen forest, wooded wetlands, marshes and swamps in its wintering areas. Two individuals of this species were observed separately in Xuan Nha NR on 8 May 2008 (near Thin Village, Xuan Nha Commune) and on 9 May 2008 (Ban Buop Village, Tan Xuan Commune). Turtles and Tortoises (Testudinates): Turtles and Tortoises are one of the most threatened reptile groups in the world and in Vietnam. Twelve (12) species of turtles and tortoises were recorded in 3 NRs and 9 species of them are nationally and/or globally threatened (Table 2.3). Previously, three species (Platysternon megacephalum, Cuora trifasciata, Manouria impressa) was recorded in Pu Hu NR by Do Tuoc and Le Trong Trai (1999); two species (Pyxidea mouhoti, Palea steindachneri) were recorded in Xuan Nha NR by IEBR (2007) and 5 species (Platysternon megacephalum, Cuora galbinifrons, Pyxidea mouhoti, Indotestudo elongata, Pelodiscus sinensis) were recorded in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR by DVZ (2000). During this survey, one newborn specimen of Platysternon megacephalum was observed in forest near Ban Buop village (Xuan Nha NR), an adult specimen of Elongated Tortoise Indotestudo elongata was observed near Na Hieng Village (Xuan Nha NR), two young specimens of Sacalia quadriocellata were found in Na Ngan village (Xuan Nha NR), one specimen of Chinese softshell Turtle Pelodiscus sinensis was observed in captivity by a household in Lin Village, Trung Ly Commune (Pu Hu NR) and one young specimen of Palea steindachneri was found in Co Cai village (Pu Hu NR . Turtles and tortoises are undergone excessive hunting for meat and trade in all 3 NRs. These group is reported to dramatically reduced during recent decades in 3 NRs due to excessive hunting for illegal wildlife trade in Vietnam and also for illegal export to China. 58 CHAPTER 3 THREATS TO BIODIVERESITY, CAPACITY OF NR ANAGEMENT BOARD AND TREND OF BIODIVERSITY WITHOUT TSHPP 3.1. THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY Threats to biodiversity of each NR was assessed using technique and tracker tools (with some modification) which developed by Birdlife International and are now used by Vietnam Conservation Fund (VCF) to assess conservation needs of NRs and NPs (VCF, 2004). Consultants sit together with staff members of the NR to discuss, evaluate and fill all questions in the tracker tool forms (Annex 6-8). During this discussion, all threats to biodiversity of the NR are described and assessed. Threat assessment includes evaluating level of its impact on biodiversity (scoring as High, Medium and Low) and ranking its severeness between all identified threats. In this case 6 and 7 threats were identified in each NR, and score 1 is given to the most severe threat and 6 or 7 is given to the least severe one. Results of our conservation need assessment with participation of the NRs Management Boards are shown in Annex 6, 7 and 8 and summarized in (Table 3-1). Table 3-1. Direct threats to biodiversity of NRs Severeness ranking* Threats Pu Hu Xuan Nha HK-PC 1 2 2 1. Hunting and trapping wildlife High High High 2 1 4 2. Forest clearance for agriculture cultivation High High High 3 3 1 3. Illegal timber extraction High High High 4. Over-harvesting non-timber forest products 4 4 3 (NTFPs) High High High 5 5 5 5. Forest fire Medium Medium Medium 6 6 6 6. Free-ranging cattle raising in NRs Low Low Low 7. Infrastructure development (roads, irrigation works, 7 7 etc.) inside NRs Low Low Note: * Ranking within these 7 threats: Highest severeness (1), Lowest severness (7) The threat assessment shows that, the biodiversity values in TSHPP area are facing up to 6 ­ 7 threats, of which 4 threats are of high severeness including Hunting/Trapping wildlife; Forest clearance for agriculture cultivation; Illegal timber extraction and Over-harvesting NTFPs. 59 · Hunting and trapping wildlife Hunting and trapping wildlife in NRs is taken mainly by local residents. This is a long tradition of local ethnic communities. Wild animals are hunted by guns, hunting dogs, bows and many kind of traps, of which hunting by guns and dogs are the most dangerous to wildlife. MBs of 3 NRs in collaboration with local authorities have conducted confiscation of guns from buffer zone communes, however, due to gun use is a long tradition of local ethnic minorities and they can produce hunting guns themselves, the guns continue to be used for hunting in the area. It is very difficult to control the guns because the hunters usually hide their guns in forests. Hunting occurs all around year (mostly from October to March next year). The hunters kill or catch any animals they encounter in forest. In the past, they hunt animals mainly for local use as supplementary food to their families, however, now they hunt mainly for sale. Large hunted animals are sold to local restaurants or transported to towns and cities for sale. Within 7 main threats to biodiversity, hunting and trapping is ranked as the most serious threats in Pu Hu NR and second most serious in Xuan Nha and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NRs. Forest clearance for agriculture cultivation Local ethnic minorities (Thai, Muong, H'Mong and Dao) has a long tradition of shifting cultivation and this practice is still commonly used by people in 3 NR area. Steep slope land, limited land area for cultivation, lack of irrigation system, disadvantage cultivation technology, all lead to rapid soil erosion and fertile degradation. Principally, shifting cultivation is permitted only in old fields, scrublands, grasslands and regenerating young forests outside NR . However, tall forests of NR situated close to villages are also illegally cleared for shifting cultivation. Forest clearance for agriculture cultivation is ranked as the most dangerous threat, that cause forest loss and disturbance of normal forest restoration. Illegal timber extraction Illegal timber extraction from NRs occurs all around year, but with small scale, mainly selected cutting of some valuable timber species such as Parashorea chinensis, Manglietia fordiana, Michelia spp., Chukrasia tabularis, Fokenia sp., etc. Illegal timber extraction occurs in areas close to villages or in boundary areas. Local residents cut timbers for local use (house construction, making instruments) and also for sale. The demand of timber for house construction of local communities are very high. The reason is that local residents are too poor to make brick houses and also local ethnic groups (Thai and Muong) want to keep their long tradition of living in wooden houses on stilts. As usually, one wooden house in stilts needs about 20-39 m3 of timber and in order to have this amount of timber, the people have to cut a bout 50- 100m3 of round wood. Illegal timber extraction leads to 60 degradation of forest quality, modification of forest structure and species composition, destruction of forest canopy that is very important for many endangered animal species. Over-harvesting NTFPs Local residents have long tradition of harvest and use of many kinds of NTFPs. Some kinds of now commonly harvested NTFPs are medicine plants, rattans, bamboos, young bamboo shoots, fuelwood, honey, orchids, palm leaves, weed plants, etc. Except for palm leave which are used mainly locally for house roof making and for fuel, other products are mainly for sale. Various family members can do NTFPs harvesting. Depending on kind of products, harvesting may occurs seasonally or all around year. Harvested products are sold locally to middle traders. Un-controlled over-harvesting of NTFPs has made several species become rare or exhausted in the area such as sent wood Aquilaria sp., rattans, medicine plants Elettaria cardamomum, etc. NTFPs collection activities also cause disturbance to wildlife habitats in the NRs. Forest fire There is a high risk of forest fire in Project area, due to very hot wind (west wind) occur in summer times and existence many bamboo and grasslands in the area. Burning vegetation for field preparation is wide spread in the area. Due to Forest control activities is well implemented, during recent years, there were no big forest fires, only some small fires happened in old upland fields and young forests. The reasons of forest fires are burning fields or use of fire in forest by hunters, bee honey collectors, etc. Forest fires often occur in dry season from November to May next year. At present, forest fires do not cause much damage to NR's biodiversity, however, the risk of forest fire is high and it can lead to great damage of forest area, degradation forest quality, and disturbance of natural forest regeneration. Free-ranging cattle raising Lack of cattle raising grounds is the reason of widespread free-ranging cattle raising in 3 NRs. Buffaloes, cows and goats are left free in NR's forest, and will be taken back to villages only when the hosts need them for working or for sale. Until now, there is no study to assess negative influence of cattle raising on wildlife populations of NR, however, it is clear that, domestic cattle can cause disturbance of forest restoration, food completion with and transferring diseases to wild animals. · Infrastructure development inside NRs Villages, communes and districts sharing territory with NRs and in NR buffer zones always have high demand for development of infrastructure (roads, irrigation, hydropower works, etc.). Pu Hu NR now has only one Co Cai village (89 households) situated inside 61 NR which does not cause severe problem of infrastructure development in NR. In Xuan Nha NR, a large road (3.5 m large) for border control is being constructed along international Vietnam-Lao border. Another large road (3.0 ­ 3.5m) running across NR from National road no.6 (Van Ho) to Vietnam-Lao border is also being constructed. In Hang Kia-Pa Co NR, there are several villages situated inside including centres of Pa Co and Hang Kia Communes. At present, large inter-communal roads were constructed and inter-village roads are being developed. Road development causes habitat loss and easier access to forests for illegal hunting, timber logging and NTFPs collection. 3.2. DIFFICULTIES IN NR MANAGEMENT 3.2.1. Weak capacity of NR Management Boards Results of Conservation need assessment of Pu Hu, Xuan Nha and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NRs (Annex 6, 7and 8) indicate weak capacity of MBs of all 3 NRs, especially, Xuan Nha NR. · Limitation and poor training of Staff members MB of Pu Hu NR has 38 staff members (7 members less than planned in the already approved Investment Plan of Pu Hu NR, 1999) of which 24 are graduated universities or high schools, 13 are graduated forestry vocational schools and 3 has no vocational training. MB of Xuan Nha NR has 23 staff members (only 9 has permanent staff membership other are contracted members) with 4 university graduated and others forestry vocational school s graduated or without vocational training. MB of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR has 13 staff members. Majority of the NRs staff members are young with limited professional experience and has not receive appropriate training on law enforcement and conservation skill. Limitation of infrastructure and equipment Pu Hu NR has a headquarter office of about 400m2. The office equipment (telephone computers, internet, etc.) is few and has low capacity. NR has 5 guard stations, but only 2 of them are firmly constructed, one other station is in construction. Only one station has telephone communication. Equipment for enforcement, forest patrolling and biodiversity monitoring is very poor. Headquarter office of Xuan Nha NR has not yet completely constructed. The office equipment (telephone computers, internet, etc.) is very poor. NR has 4 guard stations, but only 2 of them are firmly constructed, and only one station has telephone communication. Equipment for enforcement, forest patrolling and biodiversity monitoring is very poor. 62 Infrastructure of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is better, including headquarter offices and 2 guard station firmly constructed. One station has telephone communication, another can be assessed by mobile phone, however, headquarter office still has neither telephone nor mobile communication. Office equipment and equipment for enforcement, forest patrolling and biodiversity monitoring is very poor. · Limitation of budget Although, all NR have approved investment plan, however, actually received budget is quite limited, not enough to implement all planned programmes and activities. The received budget was spent mostly for basic infrastructure construction (headquarter office, guard stations) and some forest protection activities. Budget annually allocated to 3 NRs comes from 2 sources: - From local Provincial budget (Thanh Hoa, Hoa Binh, Son La), which will generally pay for salary of staff members and NR protection activities. - From National Programme 661 to pay for contracting local communities to protect forest and forest fire prevention activities. This Programme will finish in 2010 and allocation to Xuan Nha NR already stopped. Lack of basic biodiversity information Baseline biodiversity assessment of all 3 NRs is poorly conducted, ,especially in Pu Hu NR. There is almost no information on population status, distribution and habitats requirement of species of NICS . All NRs have no biodiversity monitoring programmes and staff members of these NRs have very low knowledge on biodiversity monitoring. The lack of appropriate information on biodiversity status of NR makes it difficult for Management boards to develop and effectively implement biodiversity conservation measures. 3.2.2. Livelihood and Conservation awareness of local communities Large number of people live in buffer zone of 3 NRs and also inside NRs. Majority of them are ethnic minorities with very low educational level and very poor living standards which are much depend on forest products (Table 3.2). Table 3.2. Population and ethnic composition of local communities Nature reserves Population numbers Ethnic composition Percentage of (people) ethnic minorities Pu Hu NR* 22.288 (data 2007) Thai, Muong, H'Mong 99% Thai, Muong, H'Mong, Xuan Nha NR 18.731 (data 2003) 80% Kinh and Kho Mu Hang Kia-Pa Co 13.800 (data 2008) Thai, Muong, H'Mong, 99% 63 NR Kinh, Dao Note: * In Pu Hu NR, there is only one Co Cai village with 89 households (402 people) of Thai Minority situated inside NR boundary. Livelihood and production The villages of Thai, Muong and Dao Minorities have been settled here long ago. The villages are usually located near transport roads and along large stream/rivers. The people living by cultivation of paddy rice, upland crops, luong bamboo (Dendrocalamus membranaceus) growing; raising cattle and poultry and collection of forest products. Due to limitation of land for paddy rice, use of disadvantage techniques for cultivation and animal raising (mainly free-ranging buffaloes, cows, pigs), the livelihood of local communities is very difficult. Every year, about 20%- 30% of total households in the area faces with food shortage for 2-4 months. Most of villages of H'Mong people in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR have been settled here only for several recent decades as the results of their migration from Northern provinces such as Lao Cai, Yen Bao, Son La and Lai Chau. The people conduct nomadic life with shifting agriculture cultivation on mountain slopes and harvesting forest products. At present, the people has conducted fixed settlement but still use shifting cultivation practice. Due to lack of land for paddy rice, land of upland field of poor fertility and using dis- advanced cultivation technology, the people has very difficult livelihood. Many households want to clear NR's tall forest for better cultivation land or move to other areas with better forest and land. Every year, about 70% - 80% of H'Mong households face with food shortage and need support from Government. Transport in buffer zone is difficult. Though motor-roads can reach the centre of most communes in buffer zone, however, the roads to villages are very bad. They are just narrow soil roads or trails running along steep slope and crossing many streams without bridges. These roads can use only in dry season, in rainy season the transport become extremely difficult or impossible. Transport to villages situated inside NRs is even more difficult. Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR has better road system which consists of some asphalt or gravelled roads. However, the road quality is low due to lack of regular maintenance Social services such as education, public health care, social culture are very poor. Every commune has elementary and secondary schools, however, teaching quality is low due to lack of appropriate classrooms and teaching facilities. Children do not like to go to school. Illiteracy percentage is high (about 30-40% people) especially in H'Mong people. Each commune has a medicine station (commune clinic), but service quality is very low due to lack of equipments and medicine supply. · Dependance of local communities on forest products 64 Agricultural production brings major percentage (40% - 60%) of each household income, however, it could provide local people with basic food stuff for their daily life, however, the other essential products such as fuel wood, materials for house construction and instruments, medicine plants and also some food items (bamboo shoots, tree roots, vegetable, meat, honey,...) are collected from natural forests. Some households of Thai and Muong people in Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs grow luong (Dendrocalamus membranaceus) and timber tree plantations that can provide them with some fuel wood or timbers, however, this is only a small part of their demand and therefore, they still rely on natural forest for other main part. Our village survey in Trung Ly and Trung Son Communes (Thanh Hoa Province), Xuan Nha and Tan Xuan communes (Son La ), Hang Kia, and Pa Co communes (Hoa Binh) shows that local communities still use following forest products from natural forests (Table 3.3). Table 3.3. Forest products collected by local communities from natural forest No. Products Aims of harvest Harvest Rate 1. Timbers House construction, making instruments. Often Mainly for local use, but also for sale. 2. Fuelwood For local use Often 3. Different kinds House construction, making instruments. Often of bamboos Mainly for local use, also for sale. 4. Rattans For local use and for sale Often 5. Palm leaves Making house roof; for local use. Often 6. Young Used as food. Mainly, for local use, also for By seasons bamboo shoots sale 7. Mushrooms Used as food. Mainly, for local use, and for By seasons, sale few. 8. Vegetables Used as food. For local use. Often 9. Dot weed Making brumes. Mainly, for sale Often 10. Orchids Mainly, for sale Sometimes 11. Bee honey For local use and mainly for sale By seasons 12. Medicine For local use and mainly for sale Sometimes plants 13. Wildlife For local use and mainly for sale Often Although, buffer zone communes have some area of production and watershed protection forests, however, majority of these forests was exhausted by over-exploitation. They can still provide small source of fuelwood and vegetables, other sources must be collected from NRs. According to Decision 186/2006/Q-TTg on management regulations for 3 forest 65 types, dated 14 August 2006, of Prime Minister, the harvest of any NTFPs in NRs is illegal. · Conservation awareness Results of our rapid survey in April and May 2008, at 95 households in buffer zone of Pu Hu NR and 90 households in buffer zone of Xuan Nha NR (Annex 10, 11) show that percentage of households which understand importance and some management regulations of NRs is high, however, percentage of households which can recognize NR boundary represents for about 66-67% and households which do not support NR objectives account for 22-28.57% (Table 3-4). On other hand, the fact that relatively high percentage of households understanding NR importance and management regulations, while number of violation is still high in all 3 NRs (as reported by NR Management boards) indicates low conservation awareness of local communities and the most important reason of this possibly is their very difficult livelihood. Table 3.4: Results of survey on conservation awareness of local communities Pu Hu NR Xuan Nha NR Assessment criteria (%) (%) 65.71 Can recognize NR boundary 66.67 Understanding importance of NR: - NR is for protection of wild animals and plants 100 92.86 - NR is for water source protection and soil 100 92.86 erosion prevention Understanding management regulation of NR: - Not allow to hunt and trap wildlife 100 100 - Not allow to cut timber 96.67 100 - Not allow to harvest NTFPs 83.33 71.43 Not supporting NR: - Because not allow to use forest products 22.0 24.27 - Because cause waste of land for cultivation 22.0 28.57 Weak capacity of NRs management boards together with low conservation awareness of local communities make it difficult to effectively control existing threats to biodiversity and also implement measures to prevent and mitigate potential negative impacts of TSHPP. · Discussion 66 Local communities which live in buffer zone or inside NRs consists mainly of ethnic minorities. They conduct dis-advanced agriculture and harvest of forest products for their livelihood. Agricultural production which consists of mainly rice growing and domestic animal rearing depends on natural water sources and natural grazing conditions. Transport network is poor that makes good exchange difficult and thus disturbs the economic development in the area. Educational, cultural, health care services and other social services are very poor. That makes the livelihood of local communities very difficult. Thus why, local people cause high pressure on forest products and biodiversity of NRs. When food is not enough to support their subsistence, the people will exploit any natural resource to maintain their today life without care about any bad consequences for environment. Fuelwood and charcoal are indispensable to all household; bamboo shoot and other edible forest products (mushroom, vegetables,...) are also essential to their daily life. NRs can not prohibit local communities to collect these essential products while alternative sources are lacked Main threats to biodiversity in the NRs were identified as forest clearance for agriculture, wildlife hunting, timber logging, harvest of NTFPs, etc. conducted by people in buffer zone and inside NRs. The question is that why all NRs have protection staff and local people have been informed about the importance of forest protection and biodiversity conservation, their violation activities still happen. The answer should be as: - The demand on some forest products (fuelwood, products for food and daily use, food for domestic animals, etc. ) of local communities is very high and use of them is their long traditional habit, the establishment of NRs leads to restriction of their access to these products while no alternative sources are provided. - Regulations that prohibit local communities to harvest all forest products may be un- appropriate. NRs should develop a regulations that allow local people to sustainable use the forest products which are essential to livelihood of local people and harvest of which will not cause negative impacts on biodiversity values of the NRs should. Briefly, in order to mitigate activities that cause negative impact on biodiversity of NRs, it is necessary to support development of production in buffer zone, increase livelihood of local people. The solutions to meet the need of local residents on their essential forest products should be developed. First of all, it is necessary to develop regulations that allow local people to sustainable harvest the essential forest products in buffer zone and also in NRs and then to find a measures to create alternative sources of fuelwood, timber, bamboo and forest food items, etc. 3.3. TREND OF BIODVERSITY WITHOUT TSHPP TSHPP area was once covered by primary evergreen forests with support very rich biodiversity. However, the forests have undergone commercial logging and forest clearance for agricultural cultivation during several recent decades. As the results, the 67 forests have been reduced in area, fragmented and degraded in quality. In 1986, two NRs (Xuan Nha NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR) were established in the area to conserve representatives of these forests and its rich biodiversity (Decision 194/CT, dated 9 August 1986 of Chairman of Council of Minister ­ now, Prime Minister). However, due extreme economic difficulties of Vietnam in this period, neither MBs of the NRs were established nor investment was allocated to the NRs protection. Consequently, there was almost no protection activities conducted, and the forests continued to reduce in area and degrade in quality. The rate of forest loss during this period was estimated about 5% per year (FPD, 1999). Only until 1991, Xuan Nha NR had its first Investment Plan and until 2002, its MB was established. Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR had its first Investment Plan in 1993 and its MB was established 2000. Actually, the biodiversity conservation efforts in Xuan Nha NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR was initiated only after the establishment of the Management boards. Recognizing importance of tropical forests in the area for the country biodiversity conservation, in 1999, the third NR (Pu Hu NR) was established (Decision 447/QD-UB, dated 20 March 1999 of Chairman of People Committee of Thanh Hoa Province for approval of Investment Plan for establishment of Pu Hu NR) and its MB was established in the same year. At present, forests in TSHPP area are managed in 3 modes: - Special Use Forests (SUF), including Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and Hang Kia Pa Co NR. These forests are managed by MB of each NRs, and for primary purposes of forest protection and biodiversity conservation. - Watershed Protection Forests, consisting of major part (about 80 %) of forests outside the NRs. These forests are managed by Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) of 3 Provinces (Thanh Hoa, Hoa Binh and Son La), for primary purposes of watershed protection for Ma river, Luong river and Da river and for erosion prevention. - Production forest, consisting small part (about 20%) of forests outside the NRs. These forests are managed by local commune authorities and households for primary purposes of forest product production. Large part of Production forests are plantation of Dendrocalamus membranaceus, Chukrasia sp, Melia azedarach and Eucalyptus sp. In this context, following trend of forests and biodiversity would be expected in absence of TSHPP. · Excision of area of NRs and forest quality degradation Table 3.5 below shows the trend of area of NRs from their first establishment/gazzettement until now. The area of Pu Hu NR was reduced from 35,089 ha in 1999 to 23,149.45 ha in 68 2008 (about 34 %). The area of Xuan Nha NR was reduced from 60,000 ha in 1986 to 16,316.8 ha in 2008 (about 72%). The reason of these reduction is to exclude the part of NR in which the forests have been severely degraded due to clearing by local residents for agriculture land and settlement. In its first designing, all NRs contain a number of villages inside their boundaries even in Strict protection zone. These villages were proposed to be removed outside the NR boundaries after the NR establishment. However, the MBs could not remove these village outside the NRs and these villages ever become bigger due to their high natural birth rate and migration of people from outsides (especially H'Mong people who conduct nomadic life). Table 3.5. Decrease of area of NRs in TSHPP area Pu Hu NR (ha) Xuan Nha NR (ha) Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR 1999: 35,089 1986: 60,000 1986: 1,000 2002: 27.502.89 1991: 38,069 1993: 7,091 2006: 23,149.45 2004: 27,084.5 2008: 7,091 2008: 23,149.45 2007: 16,316.8 2008: 16,316.8 Consequently, forests of NRs continued to be reduced and degraded and MBs of NRs decided to cut off the parts of NR with very high human disturbance to reduce the pressure on the NR management. The latest excision (in 2007) was based on Government policy to re-classify three forest types in the Country which was required under Directive No. 38/2005/CT-TTg, dated 5 December 2005 of Prime Minister on review, re-classification of 3 forest types: Protection forests, Special Use forests and Production forests The current Government agenda is to restrict the establishment of new SUFs and to promote the allocation of protection and production forest to private users such that they generate income and cease being a drain on the central budget. Decision 186/2006/Q- TTg and also the Law on Forest Protection and Development (2004) make specific comment in regard to communities living within or utilising areas of SUFs. It is expected that such areas will under the current and future forest planning be excluded from SUF and re-classified as production forest. Furthermore, some roads are being built or planned to be built in these NRs. Especially, in Xuan Nha NR, a large asphalt road is being constructed to connect National Road No. 6 to Vietnam- Lao border and runs along this border for border patrolling. All these will lead to further reduction of forest/ habitat area of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. Area of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR was increased from 1,000 ha in 1986 to 7,091ha in 1993 and kept stable in this figure until now. There are many villages inside this NRs and some forest areas in valleys have been lost. This statement is based on our observation in 2000 and 2008 surveys, though we have no statistical data for this. Total area of the NR is kept 69 no change from 1993 to now, possibly be cause the NR is already to small to cut any part. However, the forests in lowlands were much degraded by forest clearance for agriculture and other disturbance activities of local residents (H'Mong people). The tall forests now remain mainly on very steep slopes of limestone mountains which are not suitable for agricultural cultivation. So very likely, forest loss by agricultural encroachment will be very small. However, some roads are planned to built inside the NR, so some area of natural habitat, but not tall forest in the NR may be disturbed in future. Except forest lost, another problem is reduction of the forest quality in all 3 NRs. Until now, only about 40-60 % of forest cover in 3 NRs consists of primary forests. The rests have been degraded by human impact and converted into secondary growth of various states from exhausted forests and regulating forests to scrublands. The forest quality was reduced by various factors, mainly selected timber extraction, excessive non-timber forest products harvest and forest fire. All these threats remain now at high severeness. Management capacity of MBs of all 3 NRs will only be improved slightly in near future (see bellow). So it is very likely that forest quality in NRs continues to reduce in future. · Management capacity of NR Management Boards MBs of 3 NR were recently established (Pu Hu NR in 1999, Xuan Nha NR in 2002 and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co in 2000) and still have low capacity for poor staff training, poor infrastructure facilities and enforcement equipment, and poor funding. As reported by MBs of these NRs, some forest guard stations will be constructed and some biodiversity monitoring equipment (binocular, photo cameras, computers,..) will be provided in near future. However, this will not significantly improve their management capacity. Moreover, the MBs continue to face with fund limitation. Vietnam Conservation Fund which was recently established to support biodiversity conservation in protected areas could provide some fund for the NRs, but it will be small grants of about 40,000 USD for 2-year period. This will not make significant change the budget status of the NRs. There is also no official programme of skill training for staff members of these NRs. So it is likely that the management capacity of 3 NRs in TSHPP area will not be significant improved in near future. · Terrestrial biodiversity Terrestrial biodiversity has been declining dramatically in the TSHPP area for several decades. This is common over all forested areas of Vietnam. In part the loss is due to habitat destruction through economic development, but the larger part of the loss is caused by the rapidly increasing wildlife trade, which is driven by the large urban market for wildlife for consumption and for export (NAPWTC, 2004). Management boards of the NRs and other FPD staff in the area are unable to address the drivers of the trade or deal 70 with trade outlets, which tend to be protected through a network of political connections and corruption. There is little demographic information to assess the extent to which populations of key species have already reached such low numbers as to be enviable in the longer term. This is certainly the case for turtles which have long been a mainstay of the wildlife trade: they are easily trapped by everyone, including women and children. Turtles have very low reproduction rates. If adults are harvested, the populations may not be able to rebuild. In one study, a 10% annual increase in mortality of a population brought about by hunting resulted in a 50% reduction of the total population in 20 years (Congdon et al. 1994). Turtle populations in TSHPP area have been significantly reduced due to hunting for local use and mainly for wildlife trade during recent decades. Data on Primate populations suggest that densities of most species are now low in the area, especially gibbons and langurs. As reported by local residents, rate of gibbon sighting and hearing their loud calls is much lower than about 10-15 years ago. Primates are one of the most excessive targets of hunting and trade throughout their range due to their high economic values. In brief, without TSHPP development, pressures of wildlife hunting and trade, over- exploitation of forest products and habitat destruction are likely to continue, so terrestrial biodiversity is likely to continue to decline, although this may occur at a decreasing rate. The most sensitive species and habitats are usually the first to be lost leaving more resilient species that are likely to decline more slowly. · Protection of Watershed protection forests and Production forests Watershed protection forests and Production forests play important role in biodiversity conservation not only because they contain certain amount of biodiversity components, but also because they provide buffer zone to protect the biodiversity in NRs and formulate connectivity between NRs. Both Production forests and Watershed protection forests in TSHPP area are managed by local authorities and households which have low capacity of forest protection. Forest clearance for agriculture and other economic development purposes together with over-exploitation of forest products for many decades have led to significant reduction of the forest area and forest quality in the area and also to increasing fragmentation of the forests in the TSHPP basin. Fragmentation has led to a loss of ecological connectivity within the landscape: meaning that there are no forested links between the different parts of the landscape that would allow the dispersion of plant species or movement of animals. Forest protection capacity of local authorities is likely not significantly increased in near future while demands for agricultural land, forest products and wildlife continue to increase because of increase of local people population and improvement of transport roads 71 in the area. So very likely that the loss and quality degradation of Watershed protection and Production forests in TSHPP area will continue in absence of TSHPP development. 72 CHAPTER 4 FORCASTED IMPACTS OF TSHPP TO NRs AND TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY, PROPOSED MEASURES FOR PREVENTION AND MITIGATION OF NEGATIVE IMPACTS 4.1. POSITIVE IMPACTS OF TSHPP Greatest benefit of TSHPP is to provide about 1,055.03 million kWh annually for national electric network, contributing to economic development and improvement of livelihood of people in the area. The Project also creates more job opportunities for people. The development and upgrade of local transport network (both roads and waterway transport) and much improvement of local infrastructure facilities will help local people better access to market, educational and health service and other social service facilities. In regard to NRs, much improvement of infrastructure facilities (roads, tele- communication, electricity supply, etc.) will help NRs easier to conduct their enforcement activities, facilitate communication between guard stations and NR headquarter for better collaboration in enforcement activities. Local people may also change their habit from use of fuelwood for cooking to use of electricity instead and this will help to reduce pressure on NR forest. Reservoir will create new wetland and aquatic habitats along reservoir and river banks and large streams in NRs to facilitate development of aquatic fauna and flora, attracting many wildlife species, especially, small and medium-sized mammals (Otters, fishing cat, civets, etc.), wetland bird species, varans, snake, turtles, frogs, etc. Water filling into reservoir will increase air humidity and level of underground water that facilitate development of natural and cultivated plants and reduce the risk of large forest fire in NR during dry season. Beautiful view of reservoir and landscape, good climate conditions and improved infrastructure facilities will create an opportunity for ecotourism development in the region and for NRs themselves, that can create an additional fund for NR management and Biodiversity conservation. 4.2. POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPACTS 4.2.1. Sources and types of negative impacts Impacts of TSHPP to terrestrial biodiversity and NRs will occur during Preparation, Construction and Operational phases and are characterized as either direct or indirect 73 impacts. Direct impacts are related to the clearance, degradation or disturbance of forests and forest biodiversity as a result of Project construction activities and operations. Indirect impacts may result from increased human population (mainly workers) and improved access to the forest, thus generating increased pressure on forest resources. · Reservoir Following impacts will be caused by creation of reservoir: - Forest clearance: will cause loss of biodiversity, loss of area available for wildlife species and increasing erosion vulnerability. During the vegetation clearing there is a risk of forest clearing exceeding allowable lines (above 160m asl.) and illegal timber extraction from forests outside reservoir area, especially from NRs. - Direct loss of some species: when the reservoir is filled, some species may be lost due to inundation. These will include plant species and slow-moving wildlife species (frogs, lizards, snake, insectivores, etc.). - Habitat isolation/fragmentation: TSHPP reservoir is actually an enlargement of about 32 km of Ma River; some parts of other streams may also enlarge due to reservoir filling. These will cause habitat isolation and may disturb movement of wildlife between areas. Hydrological change caused by reservoir filling will change the aquatic habitat conditions. This may have some effect to the vegetation structure, compositions of the areas and indirectly impact animals dependent on these habitats. - Creating access to the forests: Reservoir filling will create better access by water along upstream of Ma River, Quanh stream and other streams to Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and forests in buffer zone. This can lead to increase of illegal timber logging, NTFPs harvest, wildlife hunting/trapping, etc. putting more pressure on biodiversity in the Project area. - Changes in riparian and aquatic habitats: When reservoir begins operate. The riparian habitat will be altered in the low flow in downstream. Terrestrial fauna living near rivers and streams may have to change their feeding grounds and other living activities. · Construction areas (Dam site, power house, auxiliary areas, quarry sites and roads) Following impacts may occurs in construction areas: - Creating access to the forests: Easy access to construction areas will be created as result of the new access roads to dam (Co Luong ­ Co Me transport road), to auxiliary areas, to quarries. This roads will facilitate access to rich forest areas of NRs, thus may increase illegal timber logging, NTFP harvest, wildlife hunting/trapping and trade. Creating roads also increase erosion, runoff and forest fragmentation - Creating high demands for firewood, timber and NTFPs: The demand for firewood and timber will increase due to increased requirements for cooking for both workers and other incoming households ad restaurants. Using timber for house construction 74 both in working camps and service area may also be increased. Exploitation of forest vegetables, fruits and medicinal plants will increase to meet up the demand for NTFPs in the area. - Siltation: The siltation in the area will be increased due to excavation of rocks and soil for construction and also due works in auxiliary areas, dam sites, power house and new roads construction. - Pollution: Dust, wastes from construction activities (mine explosion, construction material transports, soil excavation, operation of construction equipment, etc.) and hazardous materials from machines can impact soil, water and air quality, that affect normal life of wildlife and development of vegetation. - Noise: during construction period, the general level of noise in the Project area will increase considerably. The noise will be derived from following sources: blasting in the quarries and construction areas; earth moving equipment at dam site, earth-fill sites and quarries; construction traffic; general increase in traffic in Project area. The noise and vibration events will significantly increase stress to animal populations especially high sensitive groups (primates, etc.) in close areas (Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR, construction sites). The following changes in behaviour may result: avoidance of most disturbed area, changes in feeding pattern, increased susceptibility to predation as a results of stress and loss of condition and changes in breeding pattern. · Construction workers camps and administration area Following impacts may occur: - Creating high demands of wildlife use: Wildlife trade is considered as one of most serious factor causing rapid degradation of fauna in Vietnam (NAPWTC, 2004). Accumulation of large number of workers and their followers will cause significant increase of demand of wildlife use in Project area. To meet the demand from market villager will encroach forests of NRs for hunting/trapping. Increased opportunities for additional income from hunting and easy of access into the area will encourage local and outsider hunters. - Creating high demands for firewood, timber and NTFPs: About 4,000 workers will work in Project areas, their relatives and others will follow them to the Project areas for doing services and other business. This will create high demand of timber for house construction, firewood for cooking and NTFPs for consumption. To meet the demand from market villager will encroach forest for logging and harvesting forest products. - Pollution: human waste and waste from living activities will cause soil and water pollution. Polluted water can have adverse affects on riparian vegetation reliant on the water source, consequently, affect wildlife species relying on the vegetation for food and habitat. · Resettlement areas 75 Four (4) resettlement areas (FS&FCAs) have been proposed in Project areas, very close to Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. The establishment of FS&FCAs may cause following impacts: - Vegetation clearing for house and infrastructure construction: Plantations and grasslands will be lost due to vegetation clearing. The vegetation clearing will not cause damage to biodiversity, however, it will also increase erosion vulnerability. - Habitat isolation and access creation: installation of houses, infrastructures, agricultural fields est. will cause habitat isolation. The roads will prevent movement of animals across the area. Roads to FS&FCAs areas will make convenient access to the forests of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NRs and tall forest areas in buffer zone for timber logging, NTFPs harvesting and wildlife hunting/trapping. - Firewood and NTFPs collecting: Location of FS&FCAs close to boundaries of NRs may increase risk of firewood and NTFPs collecting from NRs. · Tourism development Dam, reservoir which will create scenic view for the landscape and improvement of roads and local social services will cause increase flux of tourists into Project areas, that will cause high demand for wildlife meat, wildlife parts and derivations; ornamental plants, medicinal plants, pet animals etc. All these will cause pressure on biodiversity in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. 4.2.2. Assessment of negative impacts to NRs and terrestrial biodiversity In Project area, forests outside NRs have been severely degraded having very low biodiversity values, so impacts of TSHPP to terrestrial biodiversity occur mainly in 3 NRs. Summary assessment of negative impacts on terrestrial biodiversity in Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is presented in Table 4.1. Table 4.1. Negative impacts of TSHPP on biodiversity of NRs Impact level Current No. Impacts Pu Hu Xuan HK- status NR Nha PC I. Preparation and Construction phase 1.1. Loss of forest leading to reduction of Very Low Low No biodiversity in NRs low 1.2. Pollution of land, water and air causing Very Very Low No negative health problems for wildlife low low 1.3. Noise causing disturbance to normal activities of Very wildlife, some wildlife species should move to Low Low No Low other more safe areas of NR or even outside NR 1.4. Increasing threat of forest clearing for High High High No agriculture land leading to reduction of habitat 76 size and quality 1.5. Increasing threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs over-harvest leading to reduction of High High High Low habitat quality and abundance of some plant species, food source for phytivoruos wildlife. 1.6. Increasing threat of wildlife trapping/hunting and trade, leading to reduction of some species High High High Low abundance, threatening survival of endangered and economic species 1.7. Increasing risk of forest fire leading to habitat decrease and degradation, reduction of some High High Low No species abundance 1.8. Increasing free-ranging cattle raising in NR leading to habitat degradation and diseases Low Low Low No transfer to wildlife II. Operation phase 2.1. Water pollution causing reduction of food Very Very Low No source for terrestrial wildlife species Low Low 2.2. Habitat isolation/fragmentation causing Very Very disturbance of normal movement of terrestrial No No Low Low wildlife species within landscape 2.3. Hydrological regime change through reservoir filling and operation causing changes in habitats No Low No No and disturbing normal life of species of NICS 2.4. Increasing threat of forest clearance in NR for agriculture land leading to habitat decrease and High High High No degradation 2.5. Increasing threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs harvest leading to reduction of habitat High High High No quality and abundance of some plant species, and food source for phytivoruos wildlife. 2.6. Increasing threat of wildlife hunting/trapping and trade, leading to reduction of some species abundance, threatening survival of endangered High High High No and economic species In Preparation and Construction Phase, following potential negative impacts of TSHPP on terrestrial biodiversity are forecasted: Negative impact 1.1: Loss of forests leading to reduction of biodiversity in NR · Sources of impact - Vegetation clearing for reservoir, ground for building headwork constructions, ancillary constructions and ground for infrastructure construction of FR&FCAs. 77 - Risk of illegal over-clearing of forest beyond allowable lines during reservoir clearing before water filling and preparation of grounds for construction of FS&FCAs close to NRs. · Evaluation During Construction phase, TSHPP will occupy about 3,644.88 ha of land for construction works ground, reservoir, FR&FCAs, Co Luong ­ Co Me transportation and other access roads. Actually disturbed area will be about 30% larger than construction footprints and may reach 4, 860 ha. Within this footprint area, there are 1,441.07 ha of plantation and 68.34 ha of exhausted natural forests (Table 4.2). These belong to buffer zones of Pu Hu NR (Trung Son, Trung Ly communes) and Xuan Nha NR (Muong Ly, Tam Chung and Xuan Nha communes). Table 4.2. Forest area occupied by TSHPP construction works Item Total area Plantation Natural Other land (ha) (ha) forest (ha) (ha) Reservoir 1,538.95 1,001.01 68.34 469.6 Headworks grounds 400.0 400.0 0 0 FR&FCAs 1,644.5 0 0 1,644.5 Co Luong ­ Co Me road 51.45 40.06 0 11.39 Other access road 10.0 0 0 10 Total 3,644.88 1,441.07 68.34 2,135.47 During vegetation clearance, a number of plant species will be lost, but no threatened species will affected. In regard to fauna, most of large size species will be able to move out from the cleared areas. A number of small size animals such as rodents, insectivores and small lizards, frogs will be lost if they not have the rapid mobility required to escape from forest clearing. The fauna in these areas is not rich or unique primarily due to low quality of habitats and most of species are common with wide distributions. So this impact on biodiversity will be low. However, loss of riparian forest along reservoir shorelines will cause loss of food source for aquatic fauna in this part of Ma river and increase soil erosion into river, therefore, creation of new riparian forest along reservoir shores are important. No forest and land area of any NRs will be lost by TSHPP construction works. However, being located very close to the Reservoir and FR&FCAs, Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR may face a risk of forest loss or excessive timber extraction by illegal logging beyond the allowable line during vegetation clearing of reservoir and FR&FCAs. It will be difficult to identify logs extracted from above the allowable lines unless the constant supervision of the contractor. Thus, impact of forest loss is very likely as low in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha 78 NR, while in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is none due its far away location. However, monitoring should be taken to prevent illegal over-logging. · Mitigation measures A vegetation clearing plan should be careful developed which enforces the minimisation of vegetation disturbance. Monitoring must be conducted to ensure that clearing of vegetation does not exceed the allowable lines. Measures of erosion and sediment control should be applied. At the end of the construction period, the disturbed areas should be re- graded to conform to natural topography and that appropriate grasses and shrubs should be planted to start the re-vegetation process. Re-afforestation should be conducted to compensate the forest loss and maintain environmental function of local vegetation cover. Negative impact 1.2: Pollution of land, water and air causing negative health problems for wildlife · Sources of impact - Explosion of mines and dynamites for excavation of construction materials and for dam foundation preparation will produce great dust amount and spreading out rocks and soils. It was estimated about 1,300.9 tons of dust will be produced (EIA, 2008) - Operation of machines, construction equipment, transport vehicles, etc. will produce dust and fuel wastes. - Processing of construction materials (concretes, steel, wood, etc.) will produce dust and solid wastes. - Dropped down construction materials during transport - Wasted petrol, diesel, washing water from mechanical maintenance garages - Fuel and chemicals leaked from storages: as designed, one petrol storehouse of 350 tons capacity and 2 dynamite storehouse for 40 tons capacity will be constructed during HPP construction period. - Run-off of construction material from storing grounds - Soil erosion due to vegetation cover removal and excavation: for the HPP construction, about 3,644.88 ha of land will be occupied, of which about 1,109.41 ha of forests (mostly plantation) will be removed. This will accelerate soil erosion in the Project area. - Accumulation of large number of workers (up to about 4,000 people) and following them service-providing people will produce large amount of solid and liquid wastes (about 4,431.63 m3 for 5 years of construction, EIA Report, 2008). · Evaluation 79 Great amount of dust and wastes (construction and living wastes) will be produced by TSHPP during preparation and construction period. For example, about 1,300.9 tons of dust will be produced by mine and dynamite explosion and about 4,431.63 m3 of solid wastes will be produced by workers and followers (EIA, 2008). These will cause pollution of land, water and air environment in Project area. The pollution may cause negative heath problems for wild animal such as diseases, growth disturbance or even death of small animals. Pollution by dust and wastes can be much reduced if contractor of TSHPP will apply mitigation measures. On other hand, Project area has complicated mountainous terrains with high forest coverage (about 80%) and most of headworks constructions are located in lowland (< 100 m asl.), therefore, the pollution will not be disposed far away from construction sites to enter the NRs. Thus, impact of pollution on biodiversity is evaluated as low in Pu Hu NR, very low in Xuan Nha NR and none in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR. There is no need to conduct specific pollution control measures in the NRs, however, it is necessary to monitor and control the waste treatment and disposal during the construction period for preventing the pollution of Ma River water. Polluted water can have adverse affects on riparian vegetation relian on the water source. · Mitigation measures Management plan of potential erosion and runoff from disturbed area around the construction sites should be developed and implemented: all runoff from construction sites should be directed to sedimentation basins; erosion control facilities should be installed throughout the construction areas; soil and spoil removed from the construction areas should be stockpiled separately and stabilised with grasses or other vegetation; etc. Treatment facilities to removed oils and grease from drainage water before discharge to adjacent watercourses should be installed Refuelling of heavy equipment and machinery should be undertaken by service vehicle, with appropriate safeguards and protection measures to prevent spillage or contamination by chemical water or maintenance oils and lubricants. All fuel and hazardous material should be stored to minimize the potential for spill Wastewater treatment plants should be installed to treat all waste-water generated from work camps and other facilities. Maintenance of vehicles and stationary equipment in good working order to reduce negative impacts on the air quality. Spraying water on the unpaved roads for dust control. Burning wastes should be done in designated areas away from settlement and NRs; burning of any material which produce toxic gases is not permitted. Negative impact 1.3: Noise causing disturbance to normal activities of wildlife, some wildlife species should move to more safe areas in NR or even outside NR 80 · Sources of impact - Explosion of mines and dynamites for construction materials excavation and for dam foundation preparation. - Operation of quarries excavation machines (mine explosion, bulldozer, trucks, boring machine, etc.) at quarries and noise from construction material processing (concretes, steel, wood, etc.) - Operation of construction machines (excavators, bulldozer, trucks, boring machine, compressors, etc.) in construction of TSHPP headworks and ancillary works and FS&FCAs - Operation of transport means (trucks, motorboats, vehicles, etc.) for construction material and heavy equipment transport. · Evaluation Strong noise will be produced mainly by mine explosion (for construction of various TSHPP headworks and material quarrying), transport vehicles and operation of construction machines (excavators, bulldozer, trucks, boring machine, compressors, etc.). The intensity of the noise of these construction means are shown in Table 4.3. Table 4.3. Noise intensity (dB) of mine explosion and construction machines Distance from the source (m) Machine 15 30 60 120 240 450 600 3000 Heavy truck 73-99 93.0 87.0 80.9 74.9 69.5 Bulldozer 80-98 92.0 86.0 79.9 73.9 68.5 Compressor 75-91 85.0 79.0 72.9 66.9 61.5 Air-compressor 72-89 83.0 77.0 70.9 64.9 59.5 Mobile Crane 78-98 92.0 86.0 79.9 73.9 68.5 Power saw 83-85 79.0 73.0 66.9 60.9 55.5 Boring machine 79-102 96.0 90.0 83.9 77.9 72.5 70,0 Concrete mixer 74-88 82.0 76.0 69.9 63.9 58.5 Excavator 75-86 80.0 74.0 67.9 61.9 56.5 Earth compressor 73-83 77.0 71.0 64.9 58.9 53,5 Mine explosion 95-115 109.0 103.0 96.9 90.9 85.5 78,5 69,0 Source: EIA, 2008 According to Vietnamese standards (TCVN3985-1999), maximal allowable sound intensity for people is 115dB and maximal allowable working time is 24 h for 70 dB, 4h for 90 dB, 2 h for 95 dB, 1 h for 100 dB, and 15 minutes for 110dB environment. Thus, the noise level of most of the construction machines at distance of more than 450 m away from the sources is safe for human health. The safe noise standards for wildlife are not available. In fact, many wild animals such as bats, carnivore mammals, etc. have higher sensitivity to noise than people do. However, 81 considering the facts that Project area has complicated mountainous terrain with thick tall tropical dense forest cover which can considerably reduce the noise expansion and wild animals can move away from strong noise sources, negative impact of noise on health of wild animals can be forecasted as low (Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR) or none (Hang Kia - Pa Co NR). However, the noise and vibration events will significantly increase stress to animal populations especially high sensitive groups (primates, etc.). The following changes in behaviour may result: avoidance of most disturbed area, changes in feeding pattern, increased susceptibility to predation as a results of stress and loss of condition and changes in breeding pattern. The noise will force large size mammals and birds move away form the TSHPP headwork area to more safe areas in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR or even outside the NRs. The animals will come back when the construction finished, however, during the escaping period the animals may be exposed to hunting pressure in new areas. Primates which conduct diurnal (daylight) activities when mine explosion and most of construction occur will be likely most affected. Monitoring of wildlife status and animal movement is necessary during TSHPP construction phase to safeguard sensitive animals from excessive disturbance. · Mitigation measures Maintenance of vehicles and stationary equipment in good working order and installation of noise mufflers on all engines should be conducted. Explosives will only be used during daylight hours when most of wild animals are less active than during night time. Wildlife groups which are highly sensitive to noise (medium-sized and large-sized animals, large birds, etc.) should be monitored. Monitoring programme for sensitive animal groups must be conducted . Negative impact 1.4: Increasing threat of forest clearing for agriculture leading to reduction of habitat size and quality · Sources of impact - Loss of land for TSHPP construction headworks causes the loss of agricultural lands of local communities. This will lead to risk of forest clearing in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR for new agricultural land. - FR&FCAs are close to boundaries (or share boundaries) of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. This causes a risk that the resettled households will make new agricultural lands inside the NRs - Improvement of local infrastructure (road, electricity supply, water supply, public health service, etc.) and job opportunities will attract spontaneous migration of 82 people into Project area for settlements. This will increase a need of new agriculture land. · Evaluation As discussed previously, forest clearing for agriculture is one of the most serious threats to the NRs. Many local households have not enough land for cultivation, or old fields have become poorly fertile, therefore, they want to clear tall forest of NR for better land. Average agricultural land of each household in TSHPP area is about 1.4 ­ 2.61ha (EIA, 2008). TSHPP will occupied about 302.22 ha of agricultural land of the local communities in buffer zone of both Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR (Table 4.4). This is equal total agricultural land area of 116 - 215 households. New migrant households also need the land for settlement and agricultural production. All these will makes the current threat of forest clearance for agriculture more severe. Thus, the risk of increasing threat of forest clearance for agriculture was evaluated as high in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is far away from Project area and contains mainly limestone forests in very steep slopes so, this impact very likely will not happens. Table 4.4. Agricultural land occupied by TSHPP construction works Item Total area (ha) Agricultural land (ha) Reservoir 1,538.95 292.80 Co Luong ­ Co Me road 51.45 9.42 Total 1,590.4 302.22 · Mitigation measures Strengthening conservation capacity of NRs; strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement; applying community-based forest management for better forest management and increasing incomes of buffer zone households; environmental education for construction workers and local communities. Negative impact 1.5: Increasing threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs over- harvest leading to reduction of habitat quality and abundance of some plant species, and food source for phytivoruos wildlife. · Sources of impact - Establishment of new FS&FCAs close to NRs while local people have high demand of timber for house construction (especially, Thai and Muong Minorities who like to stay in wooden houses on stilts) will cause a risk of timber cutting and NTFPs harvesting in new areas 83 - Accumulation of large number of workers and service-providing people will significantly increase demand for fuelwoods, NTFPs for food unless alternative fuel sources and foods are fully supplied. - Improvement of transport will attract spontaneous migration of people into Project area for settlements which will increase local demand for timber and NTFPs · Evaluation Without TSHPP, local demand of wood for house construction is already high and represents as severe threat to forests of 3 NRs in TSHPP area. Local ethnic minorities do not like to live in brick houses. They like to live in wooden houses. It is estimated that one normal wooden house in stilts needs about 20-39 m3 of timber and in order to have this amount of timber, the people have to cut a bout 50- 100m3 of round wood. The relocated households will move their own wooden houses to new places or will receive ready made brick houses for settlement. In the first case, people will need wood to repair their houses and in second case, the people may make supplementary houses to keep their tradition of living in wooden houses. The wood also needs for spontaneous migrant households and widely used for making furniture and production instruments. The demand on wood will be increased, if TSHPP will not provide them with neccesary amount of woods, the threat of illegal timber cutting from NRs will be much increased, putting high pressure on biodiversity of the 3 NRs Threat of over-harvesting of NTFPs is already high in 3 NRs. Large number of workers and following them service-providing people will significantly increase local demand for NTFPs such as firewood, vegetable (mushrooms, bamboo shoots, etc.), etc. Experience from mountainous village shows that each household uses average 0.5m3-0.7m3 of wood per year for cooking. In case, only firewood will be used for cooking, every year the TSHPP workers will consume about 920 ­ 2,015 m3 of firewood. So, if there will be no substitute fuel sources (gas, kerosene, etc.) provided, demand for firewood alone will cause great pressure on NRs and its buffer zones. Thus, impact of increasing threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs over-harvest was evaluated as high in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is far away from Project area, so it is likely that this impact will not happen. · Mitigation measures Strengthening conservation capacity of NRs; strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement; supplying alternative construction materials, alternative fuels (gas, kerosene, coal, etc.) and food stuff from cultivated plants and domestic animals; control of traffic in Project area (installing barrier, checkpoints; restriction of internal road system traffic, etc.); applying community-based forest management for better forest management and 84 increasing incomes of buffer zone households; environmental education for construction workers and local communities . Negative impact 1.6: Increasing threat of wildlife trapping/hunting and trade, leading to reduction of some species abundance, threatening survival of endangered and economic species · Sources of impact - FS&FCAs are close to boundaries of NRs that facilitates residents to encroach NRs for hunting/trapping. - Accumulation of large number of workers and service-providing people will significantly increase demand for wildlife as food, medicine, pets, etc. that stimulate hunting/trapping and trade of wildlife in the area. - Improvement of transport into Project area will attract wildlife traders and wildlife restaurant owners to Project area for business - Spontaneous migration of people into Project area will cause increase of local demand for wildlife and wildlife products. · Evaluation Local minorities (Thai, Muong, H'Mong) have long tradition of wildlife hunting/trappings as supplementary protein source for their families. At present, hunting/trapping is also driven by wide-spread wildlife trade in the region. Wildlife hunting/ trapping and trade was identified as major threat to biodiversity in 3 NRs now. TSHPP will significantly stimulate wildlife hunting/trapping and trade in the Project area through a number of above mentioned reasons, especially due to improvement of transport conditions and accumulation of large worker number. This impact will be high in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR because they are close to the TSHPP headwork site and low in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR because of its far location. · Mitigation measures Strengthening conservation capacity of NRs; strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement; supplying alternative food stuff from domestic animals; control of traffic in Project area (installing barrier, checkpoints; restriction of internal road system traffic, etc.); applying community-based forest management for better forest management and increasing incomes of buffer zone households; environmental education for construction workers and local communities. Negative impact 1.7: Increasing risk of forest fire leading to habitat decrease and degradation, reduction of some species abundance 85 · Sources of impact - Establishment of new FS&FCAs close to NRs will cause risk of forest fire due to their residents will burn vegetation for field preparation near the NRs and even use fire inside NRs through illegal encroaching NRs for hunting and NTFPs harvest. - Accumulation of large amount of fuels and chemicals for TSHPP construction will cause high risk of un-controlled fire leading to forest fire. One petrol storehouse of 350 tons capacity and 2 dynamite storehouse for 40 tons capacity will be constructed to support HPP construction. - Mine explosion for rock excavation may cause the risk of forest fire unless appropriate safeguards measures will be undertaken. · Evaluation Big forest fires have not happened for many years in the Project area, however, the risk of forest fire stays high in the area due to existence of strong hot west wind, many bamboo forests and crop fields situated inside or close to NRs. Every year each NRs have to spend much of human effort and time forest fire control. Forest fire often happens through un- controlled vegetation burning for field preparation, use of forest inside NRs by encroached people during bee honey harvest, cooking, etc. TSHPP will increase the risk of forest fire through various reasons enlisted above. Contractor of TSHPP will apply measures to prevent spreading fire from mine/dynamite explosion and safeguard fuel storehouse and explosive storehouse. However, the risk of forest fire still stays for many other reasons as mentioned above. Once forest fire happens, it may cause un-estimable damage for biodiversity and environment, therefore, strict forest fire control measures should be applied during TSHPP construction. The risk of increasing forest fires is evaluated as high in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR due to their very close location to TSHPP construction site and existence of nearby FS&FCAs, but as none in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR due to its far location and absence of nearly FS&FCAs · Mitigation measures Strengthening forest fire fighting capacity of NRs; strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement; supply necessary fire equipments for all construction areas; improving forest fire control facilities for NRs; control of traffic in Project area (installing barrier, checkpoints; restriction of internal road system traffic, etc.); environmental education for construction workers and local communities. Negative impact 1.8: Increasing free-ranging cattle raising in NRs leading to habitat degradation and diseases transfer to wildlife · Sources of impact 86 - Establishment of new FS&FCAs close to NRs may lead to increasing number of free-ranging cattle in NRs - Accumulation of large number of workers and service-providing people will significantly increase local demand for food from locally raising animals, stimulating cattle raising in the area including free-ranging cattle in NRs. · Evaluation Free-ranging cattle raising in NR was identified as a threat to biodiversity of 3 NRs, but it is not severe threats. Accumulation of large number of workers and service-providing people into Project area will significantly increase local demand for food from locally raising animals because people always prefer meat of free-range cattle to farmed cattle. However, the number of free-ranging cattle will not significantly increased because a many reasons such as it is forbidden by NRs, cattle will also destroy crops which are more essential to villagers livelihood, meat supply from other areas, etc. Therefore, this impact is evaluated as low in Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and none in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR. · Mitigation measures Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement; land use planning to create appropriate pastures for each villages; negotiating local household to sign agreement on refusing free-ranging cattle raise; applying community-based forest management for better forest management and increasing incomes of buffer zone households; environmental education for construction workers and local communities. In Operation period, following negative impacts on terrestrial biodiversity and NRs are forecasted: Negative impact 2.1: Water pollution causing reduction of food source for certain terrestrial wildlife species · Sources of impact - Wasted petrol, diesel caused by operation of machines and equipment and their maintaining. - Decomposition of great biomass amount in first years of water filling into reservoir. - Increase of living wastes due to increase of population and tourists and industrial wastes due to industry development in the area. · Evaluation 87 Main possible water pollution sources are decomposition of biomass in reservoir and operation of TSHPP turbines and other machines. Before filling water into reservoir, vegetation cover of reservoir will be cleaned, it is estimated that about 2,589 ­ 3,080 tons of biomass will remain in the reservoir after vegetation cleaning (EIA, 2008). Principally, decomposition of this biomass will cause water pollution, however, calculation shows that oxygen content of reservoir water after the biomass decomposition will be high (6,4181 ­ 6,818 mg per litre), so no significant change of water quality, consequently, no negative impact on reservoir aquatic life will happen (EIA, 2008). TSHPP will use turbines of new technology that can prevent oil leaking into water and also use waste-treatment technologies so pollution through operation of turbines and other machines will be negligible. Only about 130 people will operate TSHPP power station and waste-treatment facilities/regulations will be used to prevent direct discharge of living wastes into environment so environmental pollution by living wastes will not happens. Thus, water pollution impacts in operation period is evaluated as very low in Xuan Nha NR (located in upstream), low in Pu Hu NR (located in upstream and downstream) and none in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR (located far away). · Mitigation measures Careful vegetation removal from reservoir before water filling. Treatment facilities to removed oils and grease from drainage water before discharge to adjacent watercourses should be installed. All fuel and hazardous material should be stored to minimize the potential for spill. Wastewater treatment plants should be installed to treat all waste-water generated from all facilities. Negative impact 2.2: Habitat isolation/fragmentation causing disturbance of normal movement of terrestrial wildlife species within the landscape · Sources of impact - Enlargement of water surface in reservoir part of Ma River - Increase water level in some stream inside NRs - Existence of head construction (power house, supplementary houses,..) - Establishment of FS&FCAs · Evaluation Most important source of this impact is reservoir filled water upto its normal level at 160 m asl. TSHPP reservoir is actually an enlargement of Ma River in a distance of about 32 km long in upstream of dam and Quang stream (about 15 km long). When the reservoir is filled, water level in this 32 km distance will be risen much higher (upto elevation of 160 88 m asl.) and its water surface will be significantly increased. This obviously will disturb the movement of wild animals across the areas. However, river itself is already natural barrier and in each sides of Ma river there are large forest areas and also NRs. So this impact on biodiversity trend of the area and landscape will be not significant. Principally, some stream parts in Pu Hu NR, which are located at elevation below 160 m asl. may also enlarged disturbing the animals to cross the stream. However, this enlargement is small and impact is negligible. · Mitigation measures At the end of the construction period, the disturbed areas should be re-graded to conform to natural topography and that appropriate grasses and shrubs should be planted to start the re-vegetation process. Re-afforestation should be conducted to compensate the forest loss for maintaining environmental function of local vegetation cover and vegetation continuity. Negative impact 2.3: Hydrological regime change through reservoir filling and operation causing changes in habitats and disturbing normal life of species of NICS · Sources of impact - Water filling into reservoir will cause change of local hydrological regime, lower discharge in downstream river; increasing air humidity, underground water level. · Evaluation When the reservoir will be filled at its normal water level 160 m asl., the total water volume of the reservoir will reach 348,53. 106m3 and its surface area will reach 13,13 km2 . When TSHPP is on operation, the water regime in downstream of Ma River also changes: the flow will lower in dry season (depending on riparian release of the dam) and more regular in rainy season. All these will cause change the hydrological regime in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR and also their buffer zone, such as increase of underground water level, air humidity, river and stream flows, etc. These hydrological changes will bring both positive and negative impact on biodiversity and environment . At full supply level, the reservoir will be at elevation 160 m asl., all forests, grassland and scrublands within this area will be inundated by the reservoir and their vegetation will be lost. The reservoir will be refilled and drawn down on an annual basis. During drawn down period, the reservoir will drop down to elevation 150 m asl. This will create wetland areas and vast area of mudflats, devoid of permanent vegetation. The moist soil will harbour a wide array of of semi-aquatic invertebrates such as molluscs and insects, as well as vertebrates such as snakes, frogs, thus providing a forage area for predator animals (civets, 89 mustelids, macaques, weasels, etc.). Because this area is outside NRs and close to villages, the animals may be expose to hunting pressure. The hydrological changes lead to increase of underground water which may make some areas of lowland inside Pu Hu NR become too wet that disturbs development of some plant species poorly tolerating wet conditions. This impact very likely does not affect species of NISC known Pu Hu NR. In the downstream, the flow will be reduced due to operation of Trung Son Dam. This will cause encroachment of vegetation into river channel and alteration of riparian habitat. Terrestrial fauna living near rivers and streams may have to change their feeding grounds and breeding behaviour (if associated to local sites) partly due to the change in vegetation riparian habitats, but it will be not significant impacts due to very low abundance of animals occurs in this riparian habitat. So, the negative impact of hydrological regime change on biodiversity is evaluated as very low for Pu Hu NR and none for Xuan Nha NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR (both at elevations higher 160m asl). · Mitigation measures Maintain appropriate environmental release to support survival of aquatic flora and fauna; monitoring habitat changes along rivers and stream; control of wildlife hunting and human disturbance along river and reservoir. Negative impact 2.4: Increasing threat of forest clearing in NR for agriculture land leading to habitat decrease and degradation · Sources of impact - Water filling into reservoir will cause inundation of some agriculture land making lack of agriculture land more serious. - Increase of local population due to un-controlled migration into Project area due to improvement of transport and social services,.. · Evaluation As mentioned above Trung Son TSHPP will occupied about 302.22 ha of agricultural land of the local communities in buffer zone of both Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. This is equal total agricultural land area of 116 - 215 households. New migrant households also need the land for settlement and agricultural production. All these will makes the threat of forest clearing for agriculture more severe. In operation period, this situation will continue for about 2-3 years after operation initiated. Moreover, improvement of road systems and rise of water level in upstream of Ma River will facilitate people encroach deeper in the areas 90 of tall forest for cutting. Thus, the impact of increasing threat of forest clearance for agriculture remains high in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR, but no in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR (far away from TSHPP head works). · Mitigation measures Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement; developing agricultural extension services to increase cultivation productivities; applying community-based forest management for better forest management and increasing incomes of buffer zone households; environmental education for local communities. Negative impact 2.5: Increasing threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs harvest leading to reduction of habitat quality and abundance of some plant species, and food source for phytivoruos wildlife. · Sources of impact - Much improvement of local transport network, especially waterways will facilitate access to deeper areas of NRs for timber cutting and NTFP harvesting and also facilitate illegal transport of forest products from NRs. - Improvement of transport (roads, enlarged rivers and streams) will also facilitate development of market economy including market for timber and NTFPs. - Further development of infrastructure (roads, industries, buildings,..) for local urbanization will increase local demand for timbers and other forest products. - Increase of local population due to spontaneous migration, driven by improvement of local infrastructures and social services, that leads to increase of local demand for wood, NTFPs as medicine plants, ornamental plants, orchids, rattans, est. - Tourism development will increase demand for food wild plants, ornamental plants and souvenir from NTFPs · Evaluation Increase of threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs harvest which was high in Construction phase and will be continues in Operation phase due to a number of new drives such as improvement of local transport (especially waterways which allow people encroach in deeper forest areas which were difficult to reach before), increase of infrastructure constructions for local urbanization, increase of population due to spontaneous migration and development of tourism to the Project area. All these activities will lead to increase of local demand for timbers and NTFPs for local use and also for illegal trade. Thus, this impact is evaluated as high in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. This impact will not affect Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR due its far location. · Mitigation measures 91 Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement; supplying alternative construction materials, alternative fuels (gas, kerosene, charcoal, etc.) and food stuff from cultivated plants and domestic animals; restriction of internal road system traffic, etc.); applying community-based forest management for better forest management and increasing incomes of buffer zone households; environmental education for local communities . Negative impact 2.6: Increasing threat of wildlife hunting/trapping and trade, leading to reduction of some species abundance, threatening survival of endangered and economic species · Sources of impact - Much improvement of local transport network (roads, waterways) will facilitate access to deeper areas of NRs for hunting and also facilitate illegal transport of hunted animals from NRs. - Improvement of transport will also facilitate development of market economy including market for wildlife and wildlife products. - Further urbanization of the area will increase local demand for wildlife consumption (as pets, room decoration, special dishes, medicine, etc). - Increase of local population due to spontaneous migration, driven by improvement of local infrastructure and social services, that leads to increase of local demand for wildlife. - Tourism development will increase demand for wildlife (as pet) and wild life products (meat, horns, gall bladders, claws, etc.) · Evaluation Impact of increasing threat of wildlife hunting/trapping and trade was evaluated as high in Construction phase and will remains high in Operation period for the reasons mentioned above. How long this impact will last depends on how effectively the control measures will be implemented. · Mitigation measures Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement; supplying alternative food stuff from domestic animals; control of traffic in Project area (installing barrier, checkpoints; restriction of internal road system traffic, etc.); applying community-based forest management for better forest management and increasing incomes of buffer zone households; environmental education for construction workers and local communities; conducting tourism management plan. 92 4.2.3. Negative impact account for each NRs · Negative impacts on Pu Hu NR Pu Hu NR is located inside TSHPP reservoir catchments. The closest distance from TSHPP main dam to the NR boundary is just 2 -3 km, and to its Strict protection zone is 4- 5 km. Most of TSHPP head works are located in left side of Ma River while Pu Hu NR is in its right side. However, during construction period, some construction works will take place in buffer zone of Pu Hu NR (left river side) such us: - A part of reservoir in Trung Ly commune: about 131 ha, including 38.7 ha of plantation and 35.5 ha of exhausted natural forests. - Right end of main dam. (The dam has crest at 163.7m absl. and crest width of 10m) - Storing grounds for construction material (about 20ha), and for construction wastes (21.91ha). - Some workers camps (2ha). - FR&FCA No. 3 ­ Trung Ly Commune, Muong Lat District: for inside-village resettlement of 36 households, 195 people from 2 villages (Ban Lin village: 18 households, 107 people; Ban Chieng village: 18 households, 88 people). Land-use planning for agricultural land and settlement land of this FR&FCA is 139 ha (without plantation and natural forests). Totally, these TSHPP works will occupy about 315 ha in buffer zone (right side of Ma River) of Pu Hu NR, which includes 38.7 ha of plantation and 35.5 ha of exhausted natural forests. So, TSHPP will cause minor direct loss of ecosystems in buffer zone of Pu Hu NR. No direct loss of ecosysems in Pu Hu NR (core zone) will occur. However, due to close location, TSHPP will cause significant indirect negative impacts on Pu Hu NR, namely: - Increasing threat of forest clearance for agriculture: High in both Preparation- Construction period and Operation period. - Increasing threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs over-harvest: High in both Preparation-Construction period and Operation period. - Increasing threat of wildlife trapping/hunting and trade: High in both Preparation- Construction period and Operation period. - Increasing risk of forest fire leading to habitat decrease and degradation, reduction of some species abundance: High in Preparation-Construction period and none in Operation period. These significant impacts may cause degradation of biodiversity values in Pu Hu NR, especially endangered and economic valuable species, such as primates, turtles, tortoises, sambar, serow, etc. therefore, mitigation measures and wildlife monitoring programmes must be conducted · Negative impacts on Xuan Nha NR 93 Xuan Nha NR is located in catchment of TSHPP reservoir, in upstream of its main dam. The NR has large stream (Quanh Stream) that comes into Ma River just before main dam. According to NR boundary re-planning in 2007 (Decision 2955/QDD-UBND, dated 17 December 2007 of Son La Provincial People Committee) the closest distance from the NR boundary to TSHPP main dam is about 5 km. During construction period, most of TSHPP construction works will be situated in its buffer zone (Tam Trung, Tan Xuan and Xuan Nha communes of Moc Chau District, Son La Province and Muong Ly Commune of Muong Lat District and Trung Son Commune of Quan Hoa District, Thanh Hoa Province) such as: - A part of reservoir: about 1,400.5 ha (Muong Ly, Tam Trung, Trung Son Commune of Thanh Hoa Province and Tay Ta Lao, Dong Ta Lao,Pu Lau villages of Tan Xuan Commune, Son La Province), including 963.31 ha of plantation and 32.84 ha exhausted natural forest) - Ground for head works of TSHPP in Trung Son Commune: about 400 ha (mostly tree plantation). - Construction stone quarry, located in distance of about 8 km away from dam toward upstream (Ban Xuoc village of Trung Son Commune). - FR&FCA No.1 ­ Trung Son Commune: for 216 households with 1,030 people from 2 villages (Ta Pan Village: 190 households with 910 people, Xuoc Village: 26 households with 120 people). Land-use planning for agricultural land and settlement land of this FR&FCA is 400.2 ha (without plantation and natural forests). - FR&FCA No. 2 ­ Muong Ly Commune: for 85 households with 461 people from 2 villages (Nang 1 Village: 47 households with 255 people, Tai Chanh Village: 38 households with 206 people). Land-use planning for agricultural land and settlement land of this FR&FCA is 240.6 ha (without plantation and natural forests). - FR&FCA No. 4 ­ Xuan Nha Commune: for 170 households with 834 people from 2 villages Dong Ta Lao (113 households, 834 people) and Tay Ta Lao (57 housedholds, 322 people). Land-use planning for agricultural land and settlement land of this FR&FCA is 237.7 ha (without plantation and natural forests). Totally, TSHPP will occupy about 2,178.5 ha of land in buffer zone of Xuan Nha NR, including 1,363.81 ha of plantation and 32.84 ha of exhausted natural forests. Natural forest consists of mainly scrublands and grasslands . This was possibly a habitat of some species of endangered snakes, turtle, amphibians. However, do to being situated near villages, the forest and its wildlife have been exhaustedly exploited. In spite of low biodiversity values, this vegetation plays important role in watershed protection and erosion prevention, therefore, compensatory re-afforestation should be considered. There will no direct ecosystem loss inside Xuan Nha NR. It is worth to note that EIA Report (2004) made by PECC4 states: "at reservoir full water filling, a part of forest land in Ecological restoration zone of Xuan Nha NR, belonging to Tay Ta Lao, Dong Ta Lao 94 and Pu Lau villages of Xuan Nha Commune will be submerged. Total sub-merged area is about 367.26ha, accounting for about 0.9% total land of Xuan Nha NR. Out of 367.26ha, there is only 5.3ha of natural forest and the rest 361.96 ha is plantation (Dendrocalamus membranaceus, Melia azedarach., Chukrasia sp.) of the villagers". However, in November 2007, the boundary of Xuan Nha NR have been revised. According to Decision 2955/Q- UBND, dated 5 December 2007 of Chairman of Son La People Committee (as response to Instruction 38/2005/CT-TTg, dated 5 December 2005 of Prime Minister on re-planning of 3 forest types), the boundary of Xuan Nha NR has been revised to exclude heavily affected parts of the NRs for use of local communities, and above mentioned sub-merged area (367.26 ha of Tay Ta Lao, Dong Ta Lao and Pu Lau Villages) has been excluded from Xuan Nha NR to become its buffer zone. When water in the reservoir risen up to its normal water supply level at elevation of 160m asl., some branch streams of Quanh and Con streams will have higher water level that will submerge some area of habitat along the streams. This will be a small area not causing significant change in ecosystem of Xuan Nha NR. However, this is a favourite habitat of some endangered species (otters, sambar, varanses, turtles, snakes and amphibians, etc.) therefore, some monitoring activities must be conducted to detect and mitigate any negative influence would happen. Main impacts of TSHPP on biodiversity of Xuan Nha NR are indirect impacts through increasing severeness of existing threats to NR biodiversity, namely: - Increasing threat of forest clearance for agriculture: High in both Preparation- Construction phase and Operation phase. - Increasing threat of illegal timber extraction and NTFPs over-harvest: High in both Preparation-Construction phase and Operation phase. - Increasing threat of wildlife trapping/hunting and trade: High in both Preparation- Construction phase and Operation phase. - Increasing risk of forest fire leading to habitat decrease and degradation, reduction of some species abundance: Low in Preparation-Construction phase and none in Operation phase. These significant impacts may cause degradation of biodiversity values in Xuan Nha NR, especially endangered and economic valuable species, such as primates, turtles, tortoises, sambar, serow, etc. therefore, monitoring programme must be conducted · Negative impacts on Hang Kia- Pa Co NR Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR is located in partly in water catchments of TSHPP reservoir. The closest distance from NR boundary to TSHPP main dam is about 13 km northeast. Buffer zone of the NR shares border with Trung Son and Thanh Son communes of Quan Hoa District, Thanh Hoa Province where TSHPP headworks and Co Luong ­ Co Me transport 95 roads to be constructed. A part of NR and its buffer zone in Hang Kia, Cun Pheo and Pieng Ve communes belongs to catchment of HPP reservoir There is no TSHPP works will be made in territory of both Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR and its buffer zone, therefore, no damage of its ecosystem will be happened. Due to relatively close location to TSHPP, some indirectly potential impacts such as increase of wildlife hunting, timber extraction, NTFPs harvesting may occur and NR patrol should be strengthened. Briefly, TSHPP will cause certain loss of ecosystems in buffer zones of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR, however, due to very low biodiversity values occurred in these ecosystems, the biodiversity loss in negligible. No direct loss of ecosystems occurs in 3 NRs, however, indirect impacts through increasing severeness of existing threats to biodiversity of NRs and buffer zones are significant. These impacts can be prevented or mitigated if proposed measures are undertaken appropriately. 96 CHAPTER V AN ACTION PLAN FOR MITIGATION OF NEGATIVE IMPACTS TO NATURE RESERVES AND TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY 5.1. KEY ORGANIZATIONS IN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT MANAGEMENT OF TSHPP The key organizations responsible for the implementation of various mitigation measures are: 1) the Environment Management Unit (EMU) of TSHPP Management Board (TSHPP MB); 2) the Head Contractor (HC), 3) Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE); 4) Management Boards (MB) of Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR · Environment Management Unit (EMU) of TSHPP MB The overall responsible for environment management in TSHPP area will be Executing Agency (Electricity of Vietnam ­ EVN) and implementation will be done by TSHPP MB. TSHPP MB will be an investment manager in Preparation and Construction phase and possible TSHPP operator in Operation phase. In order to ensure effective implementation of environment management plan, TSHPP MN will establish its Environment Management Unit (EMU). Staff of EMU should have appropriate training on environment assessment and monitoring techniques. EMU will be responsible for the technical planning, implementation and monitoring of all environmental mitigation and compensation measures under TSHPP MB's responsibility. In addition, the EMU will monitor mitigation measures that will be implemented by the HC to ensure compliance with responsibility of both TSHPP MB and HC. The EMU will also work closely with FPD, DONRE and other Governmental agencies, as appropriate. Beginning with Preparation phase and until the end of 3 first years of Operation phase, the EMU will prepare quarterly reports for submission to MONRE. These reports will address the following items: - Progress made to implement the environmental mitigation measures in compliance with responsibility of TSHPP MB and HC. - Schedule of implementation of environmental; mitigation measures; - Difficulties with implementing the environmental mitigation measures and recommendations for correcting the problems; - Any aspects that does not conform with the environmental mitigation measures and proposed remedial measures. 97 · Head Contractor (HC) The HC will be responsible for implementation of measures to avoid or minimise environmental impacts during construction. The provisions of the contract between TSHHP MB and the HC should include clear description of the HC's obligations for undertaking measures to minimize and/or mitigate impacts on existing environmental situation. · Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) MONRE will monitor and supervise the implementation of all mitigation measures, review quarter environment management reports submitted by EMU and provide consultation and technical support to forestry-related mitigation measures in consultation with Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD). Main responsibilities of MONRE include: - Reviewing and approving the environmental specifications for HC's contract. - Coordinating the implementation of environmental mitigation measures with Government and TSHPP MB. - Monitoring and supervising the implementation of the environmental mitigation measures for which TSHPP MB are responsible. - Conducting monitoring programmes to ensure that TSHPP MB is in compliance with implementing environmental mitigation measures - Resolving environmental issues between governmental agencies and TSHPP MB - Providing technical assistance on any required input from the EMU and other governmental agencies · Management Board (MB) of Pu Hu, Xuan Nha and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NRs As stipulated in Vietnam's Biodiversity Law (which will come in force soon in 2009), MB of the NR should participate in Panel of examination and approval of TSHPP EIA report. During the Project construction and operation, each MB of 3 NR will be responsible for implementation of all mitigation measures related to its NR through contract with TSHPP MB. MB of each NR should revise its Management plan to integrate mitigation measures of negative impacts caused by TSHPP and secure enough fund to implement mitigation measures which are in its responsibility. MB of NRs will also closely cooperate with local authorities to ensure effective implementation of the mitigation measures. 5.2. MITIGATION PLAN First of all, the Executing Agency (EVN), TSHPP MB and HC should commit to strictly implement following overall mitigation measures: 98 Using advanced equipments/ technology that minimize environmental pollution and applying relevant technical measures to minimize discharge of hazardous materials (dusts, noise, wastes etc.); gathering and properly treating solid and liquid wastes; vegetation clearance of reservoir before water filling; Developing and implementing strict regulations for management of construction explosives, fuels and chemicals during construction phase and preventing leaking/spill of petrol, diesel, chemicals from storehouses Developing and implementing Construction Workers Camp Management Plan which including prohibition of timber logging, NTFPs harvest, hunting/trapping and consumption of wildlife and their parts in the area. Bellow, are specific mitigation measures related to terrestrial biodiversity and NRs. Measure 1: Strengthening conservation capacity of NRs · Objective To enable MBs of 3 NRs effectively implement mitigation measures and safeguard biodiversity values of the NRs · Justification As the official bodies responsible for management and biodiversity conservation in NRs, MBs of Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NR will directly participate in implementation of most of mitigation measures. Capacity of these MBs need to be enhanced to effectively fulfil their responsibilities. Enhancement of MB's conservation capacity will consists of strengthening NRs infrastructure, equipment supply and increasing number of staff members and skill training for staff members. · Activities - Relocate Ta Com Guard Station (Pu Hu NR) which will be inundated when reservoir water filling (Compensation for loss). - Construct a new Guard station in right shore of Ma Rive(location between Pieng Village of Trung Son Commune and main dam) to control illegal forest product exploitation and other violations in Pu Hu NR and its adjacent buffer zone along lines of Project head works and Reservoir. MB of Pu Hu NR will be responsible for providing forest guards and running this Guard station - Constructing a new Guard station close to Dong Ta Lao Village to control illegal forest product exploitation and other violations in Xuan Nha NR and its adjacent buffer zone along Reservoir and Head works line. MB of Pu Hu NR will be responsible for providing forest guards and running this Guard station 99 - Installing additional boundary demarcation posts to make clear NR boundary along TSHPP lines and FS&FCAs - Providing patrol and monitoring equipment (GPS, binoculars, cameras) for MB of Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs. - Providing motorcycles, motorboats and communication systems for 2 new Guard stations for their patrol and enforcement activities - Providing equipment of forest fire fighting (pumping machines, water fire arms, fire extinguishers, etc.) for Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs. - Training staff members of Pu Hu, Xuan Nha and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NRs on enforcement skills and biodiversity conservation techniques. - Hiring 20 local residents as contracted staff members to strengthen forest patrol and enforcement for Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NR. · Responsibility MBs of Pu Hu, Xuan Nha and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NRs will be responsible for implementation of these activities through a contract with TSHPP MB. EMU will monitor and supervise the implementation process. TSHPP will responsible for funding these activities. Measure 2: Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement · Objective To minimize impacts that increase threats to forests and biodiversity of NRs (forest clearance for agriculture, hunting/trapping wildlife, timber and NTFPs harvest, forest fire, etc.) and its buffer zone. · Justification The TSHPP will increase severeness of existing threats to biodiversity values of Pu Hu, Xuan Nha and Hang Kia- Pa Co NRs (forest clearance for agriculture, hunting/trapping wildlife, timber and NTFPs harvest, forest fire, etc.). Strengthening patrolling and enforcement activities will reduce the pressure on biodiversity of the NRs. · Activities - Strengthening forest patrol in NRs for violations of forest clearing for agriculture, timber extraction, NTFPs harvest, wildlife hunting/trapping, burning by illegal encroachers, and applying strict enforcement measures. - Conducting regular patrol during vegetation clearing in reservoir and FS&FCAs: 1) to prevent forest over-logging or timbers extraction outside allowable lines, especially 100 from NRs; 2) to control vegetation burnings for reservoir cleaning to prevent forest fire. - Establishing and operating Forest Fire Control Board (FFCB) with participation of TSHPP MB, HC, MBs of Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and local commune authorities. FFCB is responsible for coordinating activities related to forest fire prevention and extinguishing (providing fire fighting equipment, delivery instructions on use of forest fire prevention techniques, organizing forest fire fighting repetition, coordinating fire fighting in case of happening, etc.) - Regular patrol of vegetation burnings made by local residents for upland field preparation in buffer zones to prevent forest fire. - Regularly patrolling NRs along Head construction lines for violations of waste disposal and remedy it. - Regularly checking (at least, every 3 months) local markets, restaurants, eating shops, souvenir shops, traditional medicine stores, ornamental plant shops etc. along 15 roads (from crossing Road 6 in Mai Chau District of Hoa Binh Province to Quan Hoa town of Quan Hoa District, Thanh hoa Province), Quan Hoa Town and Construction areas for any violations on wildlife trade and remedy - Enhancing participation of local communities in NR management: currently, participation of local communities in NR management are still weak. MBs of the NRs have very little fund for this measure, consequently, very low income the local households can get from NR management activities. This reduces their interest in forest protection and keeping high rate of violations. Possible participatory management activities includes: 1) Meeting with local households for explaining NR management objectives and developing "Huong Uoc" (Village agreement) on refusing timber extraction, NTFPs harvest, wildlife hunting/trapping, forest clearing for agriculture, etc. 2) To establish and operate Village and Commune Forest Protection Teams which will join NR forest rangers for forest patrol, 3) Allocation of NR forests to households for protection and others. · Responsibility MBs of Pu Hu, Xuan Nha and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR will be responsible for implementation of these activities. MBs will collaborate with local authorities and appropriate governmental organizations to ensure their effective implementation. Funding for most of these activities will come from governmental annually budget allocated to each NR (as in Investment plan for the NR) , some activities will be funded by TSHPP (see later for details). Measure 3. Minimisation of vegetation clearing and Rehabilitation in reservoir area and construction sites · Objectives 101 To minimize vegetation clearing for construction activities and restore vegetation cover and its ecological functions · Justification During construction phase about 1,441.07 ha of plantation and 68.34 ha of natural forests in buffer zone of Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs will be lost. Most of these areas will be permanently lost due to reservoir filling and head works footprints (powerhouse, administration house, roads, etc.), small part is just temporarily destroyed for construction grounds (work camp sites, quarries, material-storing grounds, vicinity of head construction footprint, etc.). The area of temporary vegetation loss will be larger than actual construction footprint (about 30% as usually). The direct loss of biodiversity values by these activities are not significant but environment effect will be considerable (increase soil erosion, water contamination, reduction of watershed protection function, etc.). The rehabilitation of these areas will mitigate negative effect for local environment and also provide certain contribution to biodiversity conservation in the area (providing more habitats, refuges, food source, reduction of habitat fragmentation). · Activities - Developing Vegetation-clearing Plan which enforces the minimisation of vegetation disturbance in vicinity of construction sites. - Rehabilitation in the reservoir area: slopes above the cleared slopes of the reservoir which are open land or covered by largely grasses will need to be planted with tree species to reduce erosion and land slippage along the reservoir. Principally, all forested area destroyed by TSHPP (about 1,500 ha) must be compensatory re-planted to restore forest environment services. However, considering already high forest coverage of the area (about 70%), and lack of bare land for re-planting, the area of planting for re- afforestation can be less than 1,500 ha, but at least as 500 ha. The rest portion will be compensated by scattered planting along roads, settlements and enrichment of secondary forests in buffer zone close to Head construction sites. - Rehabilitation of areas at constructions sites: Restoration of cleared areas, quarries which are no longer use, spoil areas, construction roads, construction camp areas, borrow areas, stockpile areas, working platform and any areas temporarily occupied during construction of the work should be undertaken using landscaping, provision of adequate drainage and re-vegetation. Rehabilitation should be commenced at the earliest possible opportunity. Furthermore, Co Luong ­ Co Me transport road just runs along edge of Ma River, therefore, planting in both side of the road is necessary as erosion and landslide will occur if not protected early. Appropriate local species of vegetation should be used. Experts should be consulate for identification of relevant plant species, growing techniques and plantation management for each rehabilitation sites. 102 For forest rehabilitation in NRs or close to its boundary, only indigenous tree species should be used. Some tree species of high economic values such as Dendrocalamus membranaceus, Chukrasia sp., Melia azedarach, sp. can be used. The used of introduced species such as Acacia spp., Eucaliptus spp., should be prohibited. All temporary camp sites and project areas could be planted with fast growing species. These areas do not need to have the most expensive and valuable species planted as these sites will be more stable than open slopes near roads and other construction sites - Monitoring to ensure that clearing of vegetation does not exceed the requirements of the construction contract; disturbed areas have been re-graded to conform the natural topography and re-vegetation process has been started and planted plants are survived on sites · Responsibility The HC is responsible for development of Vegetation-clearing Plan and submit TSHPP MB, and MONRE for approval. Then the HC will be responsible for determining the locations of areas that will be disturbed during the construction period and responsible for re-grading and rehabilitation of the disturbed areas after construction finished. EMU will conduct monitoring of the processes. EMU can invite relevant experts from MARD and DONRE for field inspection. Fund for these activities will come from TSHPP. Measures 4: Monitoring programme for impacts on Endangered wildlife species in NRs · Objectives Get better understanding of population status and ecological requirements of wildlife species of NICS in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. Developing detailed management plan for potential most affected species. · Justification Preliminary study of fauna in 3 NRs have identified 66 animal species of NICS including 56 species of nationally endangered and 37 species of globally endangered. However, population status in the NRs and ecological requirements of these species are poorly known. Furthermore, two wildlife groups of high conservation significance (Primates and Turtles/tortoises) are identified as highly vulnerable to impacts of TSHPP and other human impacts. Monitoring programme will help to obtain data on population status and their ecological requirements which are utmost important for effective conservation of these wildlife groups. The monitoring will also determine changes in population size and habitat use, movement of the species due to impacts of TSHPP which will help to apply relevant remedy measures. 103 · Activities - Status survey to assess population status and distribution of Primate, turtles/tortoises and other species of NICS in Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs: during the Preparation phase, the survey will be conducted to determine actual population size and distribution areas of these species. Determination of population size of primates will involve transect census and point counting of gibbon calls, for turtle/tortoises direct transect counting and mark-recapture techniques could be used. Status survey will be conducted in Preparation year. - Developing and implementing Monitoring programme for impacts of TSHPP on endangered wildlife species in Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs: based on results of status survey, detailed monitoring programme for most endangered species will be developed and implemented. The monitoring programmes should focus on species composition, group/population size and dynamics, home range change, fooding habits, habitat quality, disturbance level. The data collected must be as quantitative as possible. The monitoring indicators include density of species or rate of direct animas sightings, density of animal activity signs (track, dropping, calls, etc.), group/population size and structure, home range change, habitat suitability, disturbance rate (hunting camps, number of traps, habitat disturbances) founds. The monitoring will begin in first years of Construction phase, repeat in 4-th year of Construction phase and the first year of Operational phase (3 years with 2-3 surveys per year will be conducted). - Conducting training on techniques of biodiversity monitoring for MBs of Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs: Technical staff members of the MBs should be properly trained on techniques of biodiversity monitoring (species identification skill, use of survey equipment, survey methods, data analysis, etc.). Training will consists of short classroom theorical background explanation and mainly practical training in the field. The experience could also be obtained by participating in the biodiversity baseline survey and status survey of monitoring species. Wildlife experts from scientific institutes will be invited for training and supervising/backstopping of the monitoring programmes. · Responsibility TSHPP will provide fund for these activities. MBs of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR will be responsible for implementation of these activities through contract with TSHPP MB. MBs of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR should invite wildlife experts from scientific institute (such as Center for Biodiversity and Biosafety, Institute of Ecology and Biological Recourses, etc.) for technical support and scientific backstop. EMU will supervise the process. Measure 5. Developing model of Community-based forest management (CBFM) for FS&FCA No.3 104 · Objective Develop CBFM programme in FS&FCA No.3 to decrease pressure on Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR and to improve livelihoods of resettled people. The specific objectives are: - Undertake the re-afforestation and improvement of existing forests necessary for watershed protection and biodiversity conservation - Establish firm community control over the use of forest resources and forest lands - Develop production of forest products, including timber, fuelwood, fodders and other NTFPs that will contribute to household earnings - Involve the resettled villages in planning and management of forest products · Justification Poverty level in buffer zone communes remained high and livelihoods are often based at the subsistence level, relying on forest and aquatic resources. Forest and related vegetations remain important sources of the livelihoods. Increasing local human populations and carrying capacity, un-regulated extractions of forest resources and forest clearing for agriculture and settlement have gradually declined their reliance on forest as well as deteriorated the forest environment. Establishment of NRs also significantly reduces access of local populations to forest products while alternative sources have not been introduced. As such for many residents there is no incentive to participate actively in the forest management. The aim of CBFM is that local communities will be able to receive increased cash benefits and sustainable amount of NTFPs through forest land allocation, establishment of sustainable forest management practices and investments in community forestry. Using participatory approaches, a land use and land allocation will be proposed based on community and commune priorities. Based on the land allocation different forest management options will be explored and decided upon. The CBFM plan will include forest protection, Production forest planting and enrichment, and forest allocated for NTFPs. Through extension services including, but not limited to, training in forest planting, setting harvest limits and timber harvesting and processing, and management, the communities will be able to establish CBFM. Totally, 507 households will be relocated for TSHPP construction. They are all ethnic people (Thai and H'Mong minorities) which have high poverty level, relying on dis- advanced agricultural cultivation and forest products. Four FS &FCAs have been proposed for TSHPP. According to land use planning for FS&FCAs until 2011 (Table 5.1), land for agriculture to be allocated to resettled households is limited, this means the people have to rely on forestry production for their livelihood. CBFM will help the households to better earn their livelihood through community forestry approaches. A vast area of forestry land 105 (Production forests and Watershed protection forests) and non-used land (bare lands, grasslands) exist in all proposed FS&FCAs (Table 5.2). This provides favourite conditions for application of CBFM Plan. Table 5.1. Current land use of proposed FS&FCAs (ha) FS&FCAs Agricultural Forestry Other land Non-used Total land land land FS&FCA No. 1 229.2 1809 195 1306.8 3540 (Trung Son Com.) FS&FCA No. 2 228.6 864 174 643.4 1910 (Muong Ly Com.) FS&FCA No. 3 68.2 733 76,7 172.1 1050 (Trung Ly Com.) FS&FCA No. 4 162 98 8 932 1200 (Xuan Nha Com.) Source (EIA Report, 2008) Table 5.2. Land use planning for FS&FCAs until 2011 (ha) Settlement and Resettled Agricultural Plantation FS&FCAs infrastructure households land land construction land FS&FCA No. 1 216 391 9.2 627 (Trung Son Com.) FS&FCA No. 2 85 237 3.6 (Muong Ly Com.) FS&FCA No. 3 36 137 2 (Trung Ly Com.) FS&FCA No. 4 170 230.7 7 (Xuan Nha Com.) Total 507 995.7 21.8 627 Source (EIA Report, 2008) FS&FCA No. 3 (Trung Ly Com.) will be selected for first application of CBFM Plan due to several reasons: 1) It is located on the edge of reservoir shore, good forest management will contribute to watershed protection and siltation of the reservoir, 2) It is situated just on boundary of Pu Hu NR, and most of residents in its villages (Lin and Chieng villages) were recently relocated from inside Pu Hu NR, application of CBFM will help to reduce pressure on biodiversity resources of Pu Hu NR. Successful application of CBFM in FS&FCA No. 3 will serve as good demonstration model for other FS&FCAs in future. · Activities - Prepare a profile of FS&FCA No.3 (location, socio-cultural, biophysical, land and forest resource use, economic status, physical and social infrastructure, etc.) 106 - Conduct land use planning and land allocation using participatory approaches: Based on FS &FCA profile, land allocation by participation will be completed so that land allocation and use is agreed upon by all stakeholders. - Design for CBFM plan based on a participatory process: In preparation of participatory land use planning and land allocation, a set of forest management options will be explored and agreed upon by stakeholders that will include both the considerations of peoples and FS&FCA. CBFM includes following components: + Protection of existing Watershed protection forest and special use forests of NRs: Village Protection Teams (VFPT) will be set up and trained in forest protection techniques. Currently, VFPTs have been established in most of buffer zone villages, but need further training. + Production forest planting: There are large areas in the FS&FCA comprising of grasslands, poor secondary forest and forest and bamboo. It is likely that some of these areas can be designated as Production forest for management by local households. + Production forest enrichment (additional planting): existing exhausted Production forests can be further enriched with selected species which can be harvested by local households. + Non-timber forest products (NTFPs): Land allocation will include forest land allocated for NTFPs. Although NTFPs can be collected from different vegetation communities, the vast number are collected from forested areas which are of good quality ­ generally the Protection forests (harvesting in NRs is forbidden by laws). These include vegetables, fruits and flowers, medicinal plants, fuelwoods, etc. Sustainable harvesting regimes may be established for the main collected NTFPs. Generally when local communities are made responsible for managing forest resources based on a agreed on sustainable management regime, resources are not over-exploited. Although the local populations have sound information on the forest resources, it is important to establish harvesting regimes for the main resources. This can be done through assessment of the amount of resources and thereafter establishing a harvesting system that is sustainable. - Conduct extension services and capacity building for local households: extension activities can include: nursery production techniques; forest planting, tending and protection techniques. study tour on forest seedling production; visit to forest planting and protection models; techniques for assessment of forest timber resources; harvesting of timber and sustainable limits; techniques for assessment of NTFPs; techniques for establishment of harvesting limits of NTFPs; capacity building in management skills; skills for planning of forest management; training in planning for sustainable harvesting plans for timber and NTFPs. · Responsibility MB of Pu Hu NR will be responsible for implementation through contract with TSHPP MB. MB of Pu Hu NR will mobilize experts from DONRE and DARD of Thanh Hoa 107 Province, Institute of Forest Science of Vietnam, etc. Funding for this Plan will be from TSHPP. Note: some components of this measure may be already included on Resettlement Action Plan. Measure 6. Environmental education for construction workers and local public · Objective To instil awareness on environment protection and biodiversity conservation in construction workers, their followers and local public to reduce exploitative approaches to wildlife and habitats. · Justification During construction phase, about 4,000 workers will be present in TSHPP construction. Following them will be a large number of people (their husbands, wives and others) who will come for settlement and providing various services in Project area (spontaneous development). Improvement of infrastructure (roads, public services, etc.) during construction and in operation phases will attract spontaneous migration of people into Project area for settlement, doing business/services, tourism, etc. This increase of human population in the Project area will greatly increase local demand for wildlife and various forest products that stimulates wildlife hunting/trapping, harvesting forest products in the area. Awareness on environment protection and biodiversity conservation of local communities are also still low. All these will put great pressure on forest and biodiversity resources in Project area, especially Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. Environmental education for construction workers and local public is necessary to promote their behaviour change through increase their awareness. · Activities - Install educational sign boards with conservation messages and forest fire prevention in nearly towns (Quan Hoa town, Mai Chau town, Co Luong townlets, etc.), along roads to Project area (Road No. 15 from from crossing point with Road No. 6 through Mai Chau, Co Luong to Quan Hoa Town, Co Luong ­ Co Me roads) and head construction sites. Signboards may be various sizes but must be large enough and with big clear letters for quick reading and must be attractive of attention. Conservation messages could relate to no consuming wildlife and wildlife products, no wildlife hunting and trading, no illegal transporting wildlife and forest products, no forest destruction, no forest fire, no disposal of wastes outside allowable areas, etc. - Print posters, leaflets, etc. with nature conservation messages and distribute them to worker camps, service facilities (shops, restaurants, post office, etc) in TSHPP construction sites, and villages within TSHPP area. 108 - Develop radio and TV education materials (slides, video, speeches, etc.) for broadcasting and newspapers in Project area. - Develop teaching nature education materials (video, slides, presentation speeches) and conducting training classes for construction workers, administration officers of constructors and sensitive public groups (restaurant owners, tourism authorities, grocery and drug shops owners, resettled households, remotes ethnic villages, etc.). The education material should be simple for easy understanding, fitting and attractive to relevant audience. Contents of teaching materials will cover following issues: + Legislation regulations on nature protection, forest protection and biodiversity conservation stipulated in laws (Law on Forest Protection and Development (2004), Biodiversity Law (2008), Decree 32/2006/ND-CP on regulations for management and protection of precious and threatened species of forest animals and plant species, Decision 186/2006/QD-TTg on management regulation for Production forests, Protection forest and Special Use forests; Decree 159/2007/ND-CP on executing administration violations of forest management, etc.) + Restriction on timber logging, NTFPs harvesting, possession and transporting forest products in Project area + Restriction of hunting, fishing, habitat disturbance and NR encroachment + Importance, objectives and management regulations of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR + TSHPP regulations on environmental protection (vegetation disturbance reduction, erosion control, wastes management, care of explosives, petrol, diesel and chemicals; forest fire preventing and fighting, etc.) - Establishing a mobile audio-visual education team with necessary teaching equipment (slide projectors, video player, loudspeaker system, etc.) · Responsiblility MBs of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR will be responsible for implementation of these activities. Fund for these activities will be from TSHPP. . Measure 7. Natural resource - related recommendations for Construction Worker Camps Management Plan · Objective Mitigate potential impacts of establishing and operating work construction camps: pressure on land and natural resources; erosion, runoff and sediment from disturbed areas, spontaneous development of businesses not associated with the Project construction activities. · Justification 109 During construction phase, about 4,000 workers will be present in TSHPP construction. Workers camps will be installed in both shores of Ma River. Following them will be a large number of people (their husbands, wives and others) who will come for settlement and doing various services in Project area (spontaneous development). Potential environmental impacts from workforce and of the spontaneous development, at the work camps in all construction areas include additional pressure on land and natural resources, including wildlife hunting, trade and use and harvesting NTFPs; generating solid and liquid wastes. Without treatment , wastewater from work camps and spontaneous development could cause water quality problems in adjacent water bodies which could affect fish populations, aquatic fauna and flora and its related terrestrial fauna and flora. Inappropriate solid waste disposal could lead to the contamination of soil and rivers. One of potential significant pressure on natural resources of workforce and followers is their need for firewood. The presence of large work force allowed freely to collect wood can easily damage large span of jungle in a very short time (Dhillion et al., 2006). These workers will also collect firewood unselectively and thus escalate the damage in the area. Furthermore, the presence of a large workforce very often also leads to the opening of shops (tea, lunch and dinner stalls, basic grocery, sundry etc.) in vicinity which will result in the removal of firewood from forested areas nearby, including NRs. Potential pressure on natural resources needs to be adequately handled in order to protect natural resources. · Activities The TSHPP MB (through another consulting agency) will develop a Construction Worker Camps Management Plan (CWCMP) which HC will comply to mitigate potential negative impacts of workforce and spontaneous development. In term of natural resources protection, CWCMP should includes following recommendations: - Camp site selection and access roads should be located so as to avoid clearing an many major trees and vegetation as possible from the areas and to avoid aquatic habitats - Camp areas should be sited to allow effective natural drainage - Effective sediment control measures during construction and operation of the construction work camps should be applied. - Suitable sanitary, sewage and solid waste collection and disposal facilities should be provided to serve the construction camps - Fire fighting equipment and services and portable fire extinguishers should be provided for all buildings - The burning of waste and /or garbage should be done in designated areas at a distance at least one km from nearby forests and forest fire fighting force and equipment are ready for action to prevent forest fire - Blasting for material excavation and construction activities is only permitted in daytime (between 6:00 and 18:00) to reduce disturbing wildlife life (most of wildlife species are nocturnal). 110 - All employees of the contractors shall be required to know how to use fire fighting equipment, making fire alarm signals and to comply with forest fire fighting procedures. - All employees of the contractors shall be required to comply with environment and nature resources protection procedures and they shall be attend the environment educational sessions provided by TSHPP MB. - Licences to operate business, such as restaurants and bars will be conditional upon appropriate disposal of wastewater, waste and good sanitary conditions; and signing an agreement on not serving dishes from wildlife busmeats and illegally harvested NTFPs; groceries and drug stores will be conditional upon signing agreement on not trading wildlife, wildlife parts/products and illegally collected NTFPs from the wild. These licences will be established, reviewed and renewed regularly by local authorities and relevant local governmental organizations (FPD, Police, Market custom, etc.) - HC and MB of TSHPP should regularly supplied in work camps areas with food of cultivated plants and domestic animals sources, as well as fuelwood-replaceable fuel sources for cooking (kerosene, gas, coals, etc.) - System of regulations and penalties relating violation on environmental and natural resources will be developed and applied in all work camp area - Worker and their follower should not allowed to do following activities: a) Encroaching forest for wildlife hunting/trapping, timber cutting, NTFPs harvesting b) Participating trade and consumption of wildlife such as hunted wild animals, their parts (meat, horns, skin, claws, bones, stomach, etc.) and their derivatives (dishes made of wildlife, traditional medicine products, etc.), except common aquatic animals such as fishes, mollusc, scrimps, etc. c) Bringing and keeping exotic animals and exotic plants into TSHPP area d) Burning inside or close to forests, bring inflammable things into forest and be highly cautionary with inflammable activities that may cause forest fire e) Use explosives and toxic chemicals for fishing and wildlife trapping · Responsibility TSHPP MB will be responsible to develop CWCMP, to ensure integrating these plan into HC contract and to monitor its compliance. HC and other sub-constructors should guarantee to implement the plan. Except for above mentioned measures, MB of each NRs should revise and update its Management Plan (or Investment Plan) for enhancing effective management of the NR and mitigate of negative impacts on the NR and biodiversity. 5.3. LOCATION AND RESPONSIBILITY FOR MITIGATION ACTIVITIES 111 In indicated in impact assessment section, impacts of TSHPP on 3 NRs are different in type and level. Consequently, mitigation measures and also their activities are different for each NRs. Principally,Responsibility for implementing and funding most of mitigation activities is on hand of TSHPP MB. However, almost all these activities will be taken place in NRs or closed related to NRs, furthermore, the MBs of these NRs have better expertise and human resource for implementation of these activities. So, TSHPP MB can sign contract with MBs of relevant NRs for implementation of these activities, retaining supervising and monitoring role upon their implementation. A number of activities are just enhancement of already existing activities which currently conducted by MBs of 3 NRs and other activities will bring benefit mostly for MBs of the NRs. Implementation of those activities will be at responsibility of MBs of related NRs. The fund for implementation of these activities will be covered by governmental budget which can be generated from various national programmes such as 661 Programme, 135 Programme, Poverty elevation Programme, etc. MBs of NRs should revise their Management Plan (or Investment plan) to cover these activities or/and develop proposals for seeking funds from national programmes. Table 5.3 bellow shows location (NRs) where each activities will be taken place and organizations/ agencies responsible for funding and implementation of each activities. Table 5.3. Location and responsible organizations responsible for funding and implementation of each mitigation activities Responsible Pu Xuan HK Mitigation activities Nha organization Hu PC Implementation Funding I. Preparation and construction phase 1. Strengthening conservation capacity of NRs Relocate Ta Com Guard Station (Pu Hu + TSHPP MB; MBs TSHPP NR) of Pu Hu NR Construct a new Guard Station for Pu Hu + TSHPP MB TSHPP NR in right shore of Ma River (close to MBs of Pu Hu NR Head construction area) Construct a new Guard Station for Xuan + TSHPP MB; MBs TSHPP Nha NR close to Dong Ta Lao Village of Xuan Nha NR Install additional NR boundary + + MBs of Pu Hu NR TSHPP demarcation posts along TSHPP lines and Xuan Nha NR and FS&FCAs Install sign-boards with forest protection + + MBs of Pu Hu NR TSHPP along TSHPP lines and FS&FCAs and Xuan Nha NR 2. Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement 112 Responsible Pu Xuan HK Mitigation activities Nha organization Hu PC Implementation Funding Establishing and operating Forest Fire + + MBs of Pu Hu NR TSHPP Control Board (FFCB) with and Xuan Nha NR participation of TSHPP MB, HC, MBs of Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and local commune authorities Regularly checking local markets, + MBs of Pu Hu NR restaurants, eating shops, souvenir shops, in collaboration TSHPP traditional medicine stores, ornamental with local plant shops etc. along 15 roads, Quan authorities and Hoa Town and Construction areas for relevant local violations on wildlife trade and remedy govern. agencies 3. Minimisation of vegetation clearing and Rehabilitation in construction sites Rehabilitation of areas at constructions + HC in collab. with sites: cleared areas, quarries, spoil areas, MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP construction roads, construction work local authorities camp areas, borrow areas, stockpile areas, working platform Monitoring to ensure that clearing of + TSHPP MB in vegetation does not exceed the collab. with MB TSHPP requirements of the construction of Pu Hu & Xuân contract; disturbed areas have been re- Nha NRs, local graded and re-vegetated appropriately authorities 4. Monitoring impacts of TSHPP to Endangered wildlife species in NRs Status survey to assess population status + MB of Pu Hu and TSHPP of Primate, turtles and other species of Xuan Nha NRs NICS in Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NR; develop Monitoring program for impacts of TSHPP on endangered wildlife species Conduct programme of monitoring + + MB of Pu Hu and TSHPP impacts of TSHPP to endangered Xuan Nha NRs wildlife species in Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs 5. Developing model of Community- based forest management (CBFM) plan for FS&FCA No.3 Prepare a profile of FS&FCA No. 3 + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP (location, socio-cultural, biophysical, in collab with land and forest resource use, economic scientific institutes status, physical and social infrastructure, etc.) Conduct land use planning and land + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP allocation using participatory approaches in collab with scientific institutes 113 Responsible Pu Xuan HK Mitigation activities Nha organization Hu PC Implementation Funding Design for CBFM plan based on a + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP participatory process in collab with scientific institutes Conduct extension services and capacity + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP building for local households in collab with scientific institutes 6. Environmental education for construction workers and local public Install educational sign boards with + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP conservation messages and forest fire in collab with prevention in nearly towns/townlets, local authorities along roads to Project area and head construction sites. Print posters, leaflets with nature + + MBs of Pu Hu NR TSHPP conservation messages and distribute and Xuan Nha NR them to worker camps, service facilities in collab with (shops, restaurants, post office, etc), and scientific institutes villages within TSHPP area. Develop radio and TV education + + MBs of Pu Hu NR TSHPP materials (slides, video, speeches, etc.) and Xuan Nha NR for broadcasting in Project area. Develop teaching nature education + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP materials (video, slides, presentation in collab with speeches) for construction workers scientific institutes administration officers and sensitive public groups Establish a mobile audio-visual + MB of Pu Hu and TSHPP education team with necessary teaching Xuan Nha NR equipment (slide projectors, video player, microphone system, etc.) Conduct educational training for + + MBs of Pu Hu and TSHPP households in FR&FCAs, owners of Xuan Nha NRs restaurant, tourism authorities, grocery and drug shops Conduct education training for + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP construction workers, their followers administration officers of contractors of TSHPP 7. Implementation of Construction TSHPP MB and Worker Camps Management Plan Contractors II. Operation phase 1. Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement 114 Responsible Pu Xuan HK Mitigation activities Nha organization Hu PC Implementation Funding Regularly checking local markets, + MBs of Pu Hu NR restaurants, eating shops, souvenir shops, in collaboration TSHPP traditional medicine stores, ornamental with local plant shops etc. along 15 roads, Quan authorities and Hoa Town and Construction areas for relevant local violations on wildlife trade and remedy govern. agencies 2. Rehabilitation in reservoir area and construction sites Rehabilitation in the reservoir area: + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP slopes above the cleared slopes of the reservoir which are open land or covered by largely grasses will be planted with tree species to reduce erosion and land slippage along the reservoir 4. Monitoring impacts of TSHPP to Endangered wildlife species in NRs Conduct programme of monitoring + + MB of Pu Hu and TSHPP impacts of TSHPP to endangered Xuan Nha NRs wildlife species in Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs 4. Developing model of Community- based forest management (CBFM) plan for FS&FCA No.3 Conduct extension services and capacity + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP building for local households in collab with scientific institutes Develop proposals for application of + + TSHPP MB and TSHPP CBFM Plans in other FS&FCA MBs of Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NR 5. Environmental education for construction workers and local public Re-install educational sign boards with + MB of Pu Hu NR TSHPP conservation messages in nearly in collab with towns/townlets, along roads to Project local authorities area and head construction sites. Re- Print posters, leaflets with nature + + MBs of Pu Hu NR TSHPP conservation messages and distribute and Xuan Nha NR them to service facilities (shops, in collab. with restaurants, post office, etc) in TSHPP scientific institutes construction sites, and villages within TSHPP area. Conduct educational training for + + MBs of Pu Hu and TSHPP households in FR&FCAs, owners of Xuan Nha NRs restaurant, tourism authorities, grocery and drug shops 115 5.4. ANNUAL SHEDULE FOR MITIGATION IMPLEMENTATION Annual plan for implementation of mitigation activities for negative impacts was developed for 6 years, from preparation year to the end of first operational year (Table 5.4). By the end of first year of operational phase, competent representatives of MONRE TSHPP MB, MBs of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR and authorities of communes in Project area (Trung Son. Trung Ly, Muong Ly, Tan Xuan, and Xuan Nha communes) will meet together for reviewing results of the environment management plan and deciding a plan for next period. Table 5.4. Annual schedule for implementation of mitigation activities for negative impacts on biodiversity of NRs and buffer zones Prepar Oper Construction Mitigation activities ation ation Year 1 2 3 4 5 6 1. Strengthening conservation capacity of NRs Relocate Ta Com Guard Station (Pu Hu NR) + Construct a new Guard Station for Pu Hu NR in right + shore of Ma River (close to Head construction area) Construct a new Guard Station for Xuan Nha NR + close to Dong Ta Lao Village Install additional NR boundary demarcation posts + + along TSHPP lines and FS&FCAs 2. Strengthening forest patrolling and law enforcement Strengthening forest patrol in NRs for violations on + + + + + + forest protection, wildlife hunting and forest products exploitation Conducting regular patrol during vegetation clearing + + + in reservoir and FS&FCAs to prevent clearing beyond allowable lines and control over vegetation burning Establishing and operating Forest Fire Control Board + + + + + + (FFCB) with participation of TSHPP MB, HC, MBs of Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and local commune authorities Regularly checking local markets, restaurants, eating + + + + + + shops, souvenir shops, traditional medicine stores, ornamental plant shops etc. along 15 roads, Quan Hoa Town and Construction areas for violations on wildlife trade and remedy 3. Minimisation of vegetation clearing and Rehabilitation in reservoir area and construction sites 116 Prepar Oper Construction Mitigation activities ation ation Year 1 2 3 4 5 6 Rehabilitation of areas at constructions sites: cleared + + areas, quarries, spoil areas, construction roads, construction work camp areas, borrow areas, stockpile areas, working platform Rehabilitation in the reservoir area: slopes above the + + cleared slopes of the reservoir which are open land or covered by largely grasses will be planted with tree species to reduce erosion and land slippage along the reservoir Monitoring to ensure that clearing of vegetation does + + not exceed the requirements of the construction contract; disturbed areas have been re-graded and re- vegetated appropriately 4. Monitoring programme for impacts of TSHPP to Endangered wildlife species Status survey to assess population status and + distribution of Primates, Turtle and other animal species of NICS in Pu Hu NR and develop monitoring programme for impacts of TSHPP on endangered wildlife species Status survey to assess population status and + distribution of Primates, Turtle and other animal species of NICS in Xuan Nha NR and develop monitoring programme for impacts of TSHPP on endangered wildlife species Conducting training on techniques of biodiversity + monitoring for MBs of Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs. Conduct programme of monitoring impacts of TSHPP + + + to endangered wildlife species in Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs 5. Developing model of Community-based forest management (CBFM) plan for FS&FCA No.3 Prepare a profile of FS&FCA No. 3 (location, socio- + cultural, biophysical, land and forest resource use, economic status, physical and social infrastructure, etc.) Conduct land use planning and land allocation using + participatory approaches Design for CBFM plan based on a participatory + process Conduct extension services and capacity building for + + + + local households 6. Environmental education for construction workers and local public 117 Prepar Oper Construction Mitigation activities ation ation Year 1 2 3 4 5 6 Install educational sign boards with conservation + + + messages and forest fire prevention in nearly towns/townlets, along roads to Project area and head construction sites. Re-install educational sign boards with conservation + + + messages in nearly towns/townlets, along roads to Project area and head construction sites. Print posters, leaflets with nature conservation + + + messages and distribute them to worker camps, service facilities and villages within TSHPP area. Develop radio and TV education materials (slides, + + + + + video, speeches, etc.) for broadcasting in Project area. Develop teaching nature education materials (video, + slides, presentation speeches) for construction workers administration officers and sensitive public groups Establish a mobile audio-visual education team with + necessary teaching equipment (slide projectors, video player, microphone system, etc.) Conduct educational training for households in + + + + + FR&FCAs, owners of restaurant, tourism authorities, grocery and drug shops Conduct education training for construction workers, + + + + their followers administration officers of contractors of TSHPP 7. Implementation of Construction Worker Camps + + + + + + Management Plan 5.5. PRELIMINATY BUDGET ESTIMATE The budget for the measures implementation is estimated for 6 years, i.e. from preparation year to the first year of TSHPP operation. This budget estimate was based on price units that currently used by NR management boards or local authorities which stipulated in several National Programmes such 661, 135, etc. with some modification to meet real situation (May 2008). Total budget estimate is 278,300 USD which will come from TSHPP investment fund. Proposed budget and its allocation scheme for each implanting agencies is shown in Table 5.5. Table 5.5. Budget estimate for mitigation measures Unit: USD Pu Hu Xuan Measures HC Total NR Nha NR 1. Strengthening conservation capacity of 43,000 1,500 0 44,500 NRs 2. Strengthening forest patrolling and law 16,000 9,500 0 25,900 118 enforcement 3. Minimisation of vegetation clearing and Rehabilitation in reservoir area and 88,500 1.000 35,000 124,500 construction sites 4. Monitoring programme for Endangered 35,000 30,000 0 65,000 wildlife species 5. Developing model of Community-based forest management (CBFM) plan for 20,000 0 0 20,000 FS&FCA No.3 6. Environmental education for 17,000 500 0 17,500 construction workers and local public Total: 219,700 42,700 35,000 298,300 Note: TSHPP ­ Trung Son HPP Investment fund; EMU ­ Environmental Management Unit of TSHPP, HC ­ Head Construction Contractor Detailed budget estimates for mitigation activities to be funded by TSHPP is shown on table 5.6 Table 5.6: Detailed budget for mitigation measures Unit: USD Amo Unit Pu Hu Xuan HC Total Mitigation activities Unit unt price NR Nha 1. Strengthening conservation capacity 43,000 1,500 0 44,500 of NRs Relocate Ta Com Statio 1 Other Guard Station (Pu Hu n package NR) (150m2 large) Construct a new Guard Statio 1 10,000 10,000 Station for Pu Hu NR n in right shore of Ma River (close to Head construction area)(100m2 large) Construct a new Statio 1 10,000 10,000 Guard Station for n Xuan Nha NR close to Dong Ta Lao Village (100 m2 large) Install additional NR post 150 30 3,000 1,500 boundary demarcation posts along TSHPP lines and FS&FCAs (100 posts for Pu Hu NR, 50 post for Xuan Nha NR) 119 Amo Unit Pu Hu Xuan HC Total Mitigation activities Unit unt price NR Nha Training staff Cour 2 10,000 20,000 members of Pu Hu se Xuan Nha and HKPC NRs on enforcement skills and biodiversity conservation techniques (1 course for enforcement, 1 course for conservation skill, about 20 per/course, together for 2 NRs) 2. Strengthening 25,900 forest patrolling and 16,200 9,700 0 law enforcement Strengthening forest year 6x2 1,200 7,200 7,200 patrol in NRs for violations on forest protection, wildlife hunting and forest products exploitation (2 NRs) Conducting regular Month 8 250 1,000 1,000 patrol during vegetation clearing in reservoir and FS&FCAs to prevent clearing beyond allowable lines and control over vegetation burning (Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NR: 4 pers. x 4 months) Support establishing year 5 300 1,000 500 and operating Forest Fire Control Board (FFCB) with participation of TSHPP MB, HC, MBs of Pu Hu NR, Xuan Nha NR and local commune authorities 120 Amo Unit Pu Hu Xuan HC Total Mitigation activities Unit unt price NR Nha Regularly checking Year 6 1,000 6,000 local markets, restaurants, eating shops, souvenir shops, traditional medicine stores, ornamental plant shops etc. along 15 roads, Quan Hoa Town and Construction areas for violations on wildlife trade and remedy Meeting to negotiate FS& 4 500 1,000 1,000 households in 4 FCA FS&FCAs for signing agreement of not violating forest resources protection and wildlife hunting 3. Minimisation of 124,500 vegetation clearing and Rehabilitation in 88,500 1.000 35,000 reservoir area and construction sites Rehabilitation of areas ha 100 350 35,000 at constructions sites: (HC) cleared areas, quarries, spoil areas, construction roads, construction work camp areas, borrow areas, stockpile areas, working platform Rehabilitation in the ha 250 350 87,500 reservoir area: slopes above the cleared slopes of the reservoir which are open land or covered by largely grasses will be planted with tree species to reduce erosion and land slippage along the reservoir 121 Amo Unit Pu Hu Xuan HC Total Mitigation activities Unit unt price NR Nha Monitoring to ensure Year 4 500 1,000 1,000 that clearing of vegetation does not exceed the requirements of the construction contract; disturbed areas have been re-graded and re- vegetated appropriately 4. Monitoring impacts of TSHPP to 35,000 30,000 0 65,000 Endangered wildlife species in NRs Status survey to assess year 1 15,000 15,000 population status of Primate, turtles and other species of NICS in Pu Hu NR; develop Monitoring program for impacts of TSHPP on endangered wildlife species Status survey to assess year 1 15,000 15,000 population status of Primate, turtles and other species of NICS in Xuan Nha NR; develop Monitoring program for impacts of TSHPP on endangered wildlife species Conducting training on Cour 1 5,000 5,000 techniques of se biodiversity monitoring for MBs of Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs (10-15 persons) Conduct programme year 6 5,000 15,000 15,000 of monitoring impacts of TSHPP to endangered wildlife species in Pu Hu and Xuan Nha NRs (3 year x 2 NRs) 122 Amo Unit Pu Hu Xuan HC Total Mitigation activities Unit unt price NR Nha 5. Developing model of Community-based forest management 20,000 0 0 20,000 (CBFM) plan for FS&FCA No.3 Prepare a profile of 2,000 FS&FCA No. 3 (location, socio- cultural, biophysical, land and forest resource use, economic status, physical and social infrastructure, etc.) Conduct land use 6,000 planning and land allocation using participatory approaches Design for CBFM plan 2,000 based on a participatory process Conduct extension 10,000 services and capacity building for local households 6. Environmental education for 17,000 500 0 17,500 construction workers and local public Install educational sign board 50 30 1,500 boards with conservation messages and forest fire prevention in nearly towns/townlets, along roads to Project area and head construction sites. Re-install educational board 50 30 1,500 sign boards with conservation messages in nearly towns/townlets, along roads to Project area and head construction sites. 123 Amo Unit Pu Hu Xuan HC Total Mitigation activities Unit unt price NR Nha Print posters, leaflets 4,000 with nature conservation messages and distribute them to worker camps, service facilities and villages within TSHPP area. Develop teaching 1,000 nature education materials (video, slides, presentation speeches) for construction workers administration officers and sensitive public groups Teaching equipment 3,000 (video player, loudspeakers µphone system, electricity generator etc.) for a mobile audio-visual education team with Conduct educational Cour 5 500 2,000 500 training for households se in FR&FCAs, owners of restaurant, tourism authorities, grocery and drug shops (4 courses for 4 FR&FCAs, 1 course for owners in Project head area Conduct education Cour 8 500 4,000 training for se construction workers, their followers administration officers of contractors of TSHPP (2 courses x 4 year) Total: 219,700 42,700 35,000 298,300 124 CONCLUSION TSHPP is located in the transition zone between Greater Annamites ecoregion and Northern Highlands. Greater Annamites ecoregion is one of WWF global 200 ecoregions which are characterized by Earth's most outstanding biodiversity values and as world hot spot of biodiversity conservation. There are 3 NRs located in the TSHPP area, including Pu Hu NR (Thanh Hoa Province), Xuan Nha NR (Son La Province) and Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR (Hoa Binh Province). All these NRs are characterized by tall tropical and sub-tropical evergreen forest cover with very high biodiversity values. Preliminary study has identified 9 natural forest types in there areas and recoded 936 species of higher vascular plant species; 79 species of mammals, 258 species of birds, 58 species of reptiles; 30 species of amphibians. Out of them, 261 species are identified as species of high NICS, including 39 plant species and 56 animal species nationally endangered; 41 plant species and 33 animal species internationally endangered; 93 plant species and 5 animal species are endemic to Vietnam. Furthermore, 2 wildlife groups (Primates and Testudinata) with high numbers of nationally and internationally endangered species are identified highly sensitive to impacts of TSHPP. Biodiversity in Project area is facing considerable pressure of various threats including wildlife hunting/ trapping and trade, forest clearing for agriculture, timber extraction, un- sustainable harvest of NTFPs, high forest fire risk. Current biodiversity conservation efforts in the area are under required standards due to low management capacity of the NR MBs and low conservation awareness of local communities. All these will make the biodiversity in Project area continued to be reduced/degraded in absence of TSHPP TSHPP does not cause direct loss of ecosystems for 3 NRs, but for buffer zone of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. During construction period, TSHPP will occupy total 3,634.88 ha of land (for construction ground, reservoir, FR&FCAs and Co Luong ­ Co Me road) in buffer zone of Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR. Within it about 1,441.07 ha of plantations (mainly Dendrocalamus membranaceus) and 68.34ha of natural forest will be lost. This natural forest has very small area and has been over-exploited for many years converting into exhausted forest, scrublands and grasslands with low biodiversity values, therefore, biodiversity loss caused by TSHPP is very low. TSHPP will cause significant indirect impacts on biodiversity in Pu Hu NR and Xuan Nha NR through increase of severeness of existing threats to biodiversity. Impacts on biodiversity of Hang Kia- Pa Co NR are negligible due to its location far away from Project headworks. The indirect impacts will occur during Preparation, Construction and Operational phases and may result from increased population (workers, spontaneous development) and improved access to the forests, thus generating increased pressure on forest resources. These impacts can be mitigated through strict implementation of proposed measures. Seven mitigation measures with concrete mitigation activities are developed. 125 Total budget estimate for implementation of the mitigation measures is 298,200 USD, which will be paid by TSHPP investment fund. Except for above mentioned measures, MBs of each NRs are recommended to revise and update its Management Plan and carry out a number of activities for enhancing its NR management. MAIN REFERENCE 1. Baltzer M. C., Nguyen Thi Dao and R. G. Shore (eds.), 2001. Towards a vision for biodiversity conservation in the Forests of the Lower Mekong Ecoregion Complex. WWF Indochina/WWF US. Hanoi and Washington D.C. 109 pp. 2. Birdlife International in Vietnam & FIPI. 2001. Sourcebook of existing and proposed protected areas in Vietnam. Birdlife International in Vietnam and FIPI, Hanoi. 3. Charles G. Sibley and Burt L. Monroe, Jr., 1990. Distribution and Taxonomy of Birds of the World. Yale University Press New Haven & London. 4. Dang Ngoc Can, Hideki Endo, Nguyen Truong Son et al., 2008. Checklist of wild mammal species of Vietnam. Hanoi, Vietnam (in Vietnamese). 5. Dhillion S.S. and Phan Ke Loc, 2006: Report on flora and Forest prepared for an environmental impact assessment of the Song Bung 4 Hydropower Project. ENVIRO- DEV. 6. Dhillion S.S. and Nguyen Quang Truong 2006: Report on fauna prepared for an environmental impact assessment of the Song Bung 4 Hydropower Project. ENVIRO- DEV. 7. Do Tuoc, Le Trong Trai, 1998. Forest animals of Pu Hu Nature Reserve, Thanh Hoa Province. Un-published report. (In Vietnamese). 8. DVZ (Department of Vertebrate Zoology), 2000. Results of Faunal survey in Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR, 1999-2000. Un-published report (In Vietnamese). 9. EIA, 2008. Environment Impacts Assessment Report of TSHPP. Prepared by PECC4. Un-published document, In Vietnamese. 10. FPD Thanh Hoa (Forest Protection Department of Thanh Hoa Province), Management Board of Pu Hu NR, 2006. Additional investment plan for development of Pu Hu NR, period 2006-2010. Un-published document, In Vietnamese. 11. FPD Son La, 2003. Revised investment plan for development of Xuan Nha NR, Son La Province. Un-published document, In Vietnamese. 12. FPD Hoa Binh, 1993. Investment plan for development of Hang Kia ­ Pa Co NR, Mai Chau District, Hoa Binh Province. Un-published document, In Vietnamese. 13. FIPI (Forest investigation and Planning Institute), 1999. Investment Plan for development of Pu Hu NR. Un- published document, in Vietnamese. 14. FPD Son La (Forest Protection Department of Son La ), 2003. Characteristics of botanical resources in Xuan Nha Nature Reserve, Moc Chau District, Son La Province. Un- published document, in Vietnamese. 15. ICEM, 2007. Strategic Environment Assessment of the Quang Nam Province Hydropower Plan for the Vu Gia-Thu Bon River Basin. Un-published document. 126 16. IEBR (Institute of ecology and Biological Resources), 2006. Xuan Nha NR, Son La Province. A scientific research work- managed by Tran Huy Thai. Un-published document, In Vietnamese 17. IUCN, 2008. 2008 IUCN Red list of Threatened species. http//www.redlist.org 18. IUCN, 2006. Protected Areas Policy Study Technical Report. Vietnam's Forest Protection Department and IUCN, Hanoi. 19. Le Tran Chan (Project Manager), 1992. EIA of Son La Hydropower Project. Centre of Geography and Resources, Vietnam National Centre for National Science, Hanoi.Un- published document, in Vietnamese. 20. Le Tran Chan (Project Manager), 1993. EIA of Ham Thuan ­ Da My Hydropower Project. Centre of Geography and Resources, Vietnam National Centre for National Science, Hanoi.Un- published document, in Vietnamese. 21. Le Tran Chan et al., 1999. EIA of Irrigation Project in Nam Nguom River, Vientiane Delta. Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Lao PDR. 22. Le Tran Chan et al., 2005. Additional EIA of Buon Knop Hydropower Projects, Institute of Geography, Vietnamese Academy of Science and Technology. 23. Le Tran Chan et al., 2006. Investigation for additional assessment of impacts of A Vuong Hydropower Project, Dong Giang District, Quang Nam Province on natural environment 24. Le Xuan Hong, 2006. Fundamentals of Environment Impact Assessment. Publ. House Statistics, Hanoi. In Vietnamese. 25. Luc Hens, Le Thac Can, Nguyen Ngoc Sinh, 2006. EIA of development projects (Procedure and technical guidance). Publ. house Statistics. Hanoi, in Vietnamese. 26. Nguyen Van Sang, Truong Van La, 2003. Results of survey on wildlife resource of in Xuan Nha Nature Reserve, Moc Chau District, Son La Province. Un- published document, in Vietnamese. 27. MOST & VAST (Ministry of Science and Technology and Vietnamese Academy of Science and Technology). Red Data Book of Vietnam. Part 1. Animals, Part II. Plants. Publ. House of Natural Science and Technology, Hanoi. In Vietnamese. 28. MONRE, 2005. 2005 National Environment Report. Biodiversity Theme, 97 pp. (in Vietnamese) 29. Nadler T., Vu Ngoc Thanh, and U. Streicher, 2007. Conservation status of Vietnamese primates. In Vietnamese J. of Primatology: 1 (1): 7-25. 30. NNT EAMP, 2005 (Nam Theun 2 Environment Assessment and Management Plan). http//www.poweringprogress.org/nt2/eamp.htm 31. NAPWTC, 2004. National Action Plan to strengthen control of trade in wild fauna and flora to 2010, Hanoi. 32. Nguyen Huy Dung, 2007. Communities and management of protected areas in Vietnam. Agricultural Publ.House, Hanoi.(In Vietnamese). 33. Nguyen Nghia Thin, 2005. Biodiversity and floral genetic resource. Hanoi National University Publ. House, Hanoi, 218pp (in Vietnamese). 127 34. Nguyen Van Sang, Ho Thu Cuc, Nguyen Quang Truong, 2005. A checklist of amphibians and reptiles of Vietnam. Agricultural Publ. House, Hanoi, 180 pp. 35. Nguyen Xuan Dang and Le Xuan Canh, 2008. Taxonomy and Ecology of Mammals. In press. (in Vietnamese). 36. Pham Nhat, 2002. Primates of Vietnam, Hanoi (in Vietnamese) 37. Quintero J, D., 2007. Mainstreaming Conservation in Infrastructure Project. Case studies from Latin America. The World bank. Washington D.C. 38. SWECO International (2006): National Hydropower Plan Study, Stage 2; Inception (Phase I) Report, Vol.II. Annex to Main Report, Chapter 5. 39. Tim Inskipp, Nigel Lindsey and William Duckworth, 1996. An Annotated Checklist of the Birds of the Oriental Region. Published in November 1996 by Oriental Bird Club. 294pp. 40. Tordoff A. W., Timmins R.J., Smith R.J. and Mai Ky Vinh, 2003. Central Annamites Biological Assessment. WWF Indochina/WWF US. Hanoi and Washington D.C. 133 pp. 41. Vo Quy, Nguyen Cu, 1995. Checklist of the birds of Vietnam. Agricultural Publ.House, Hanoi, 119pp (in Vietnamese). ANNEXES 128