The People’s Committee of central coastal Khanh Hoa province has approved a 95 billion VND plan to sustainably develop its Hon Ba nature reserve until 2020.

The area in question covers over 19,000 hectares and is 30 kilometres from Nha Trang city. It was discovered in 1863 by Dr. Alexandre Yersin.

The province decided to establish reserve areas in Hon Ba in order to protect and preserve natural resources and biodiversity, including animals and plants.

Local authorities have invested in the construction of a base to support forest management and protection and to undertake scientific research, while providing livelihood security for local buffer communities.

Hon Ba, at 1,578m higher than sea level, enjoys a year-round cool and humid climate, which contributes to its rich biodiversity. The reserve is home to 592 plant species and 255 kinds of animals, including 100 rare fauna and flora species listed in the Red Book of Endangered Species.-VNA