Assessment of Forest Fires Risk in U Minh Ha National Park-Vietnam and Proposed Adaptation Measures

Abstract

Forest ecosystems are part of the vital and indispensable resources for human survival and social development. Forests not only provide materials such as wood and firewood for some industries, but also maintain and protect the environment, such as climate regulation, erosion control and sedimentation, water regulation and flood mitigation. However, due to some uncontrolled activities of people and abnormal natural conditions, forest fires occur more frequently and severely. U Minh Ha National Park (UMHNP) is one of forest which has the highest risk of forest fires in the Mekong Delta. This study was conducted to assess the status of forest fires and the impacts of climate change on forest fire risk in UMHNP then proposed appropriate measures to reduce the risk of forest fire to minimize damage to the environment, humans, biodiversity, economics as well as people’s livelihoods protection in the Mekong Delta. By the method of data collection and rapid assessment, the topic has statistics of fires within 5 years as well as causes, key areas and its impacts on forest ecosystems. At the same time, it was pointed out that UMHNP is facing an increasing risk of forest fire due to climate change. Forest fire prevention and fighting in UMHNP is being well implemented but still faces some difficulties. Therefore, it is necessary to take appropriate measures such as strengthening communication, completing mechanisms and policies, supplementing fire protection equipment and facilities to improve environmental quality and local’s people life.