The Dao People in Luc Lieu protect forest

Amidst the green acacia and eucalyptus forests of Tan Thanh commune, Luc Lieu village stands out as a model of forest protection within the Dao ethnic community. Guided by the motto "No forest, no future," forest preservation of the Dao people is more than a responsibility, it is a way of life deeply rooted in the community's culture and identity.

A moment of rest for the forest patrol team of Tan Thanh commune.

Luc Lieu is home to 178 households and over 500 residents, with 90% belonging to the Dao ethnic group. In the past, the village's forests were severely threatened by illegal logging, endangering the ecosystem and the livelihoods of local people.

In response, the Tan Thanh Commune People's Committee, in collaboration with relevant agencies, established forest protection teams and signed community-based agreements to safeguard the forest. As of now, the village maintains two patrol teams with 12 members who carry out weekly forest inspections. Residents must obtain community approval before entering the forest to collect firewood.

Mr. Dang Van Manh, head of the forest protection team, shared that thanks to the collective consensus and determination of the entire village, there have been no violations related to deforestation for over a decade. Awareness-raising activities are conducted regularly, with villagers being guided on proper slash-and-burn techniques and effective fire prevention measures to ensure flames do not spread into natural forest areas.

For the Dao people of Luc Lieu, the forest is not merely a collection of trees and vegetation, it is a vital source of life and a sacred space deeply tied to their spiritual beliefs. They revere the “spirit of the forest,” a guardian deity believed to bring favorable weather and bountiful harvests. The forest offers protection, supplies clean water, medicinal plants, and food, all of which contribute significantly to local livelihoods.

Notably, thanks to the implementation of national target programs aimed at promoting socio-economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous areas in the 2023 – 2024 period, people of Luc Lieu received VND216 million through forest protection and contracting policies. This support has not only provided a stable source of income but also strengthened the community’s sense of responsibility in preserving this precious natural resource.

Local residents, together with forest rangers, regularly patrol the forests.

Mr. Phung Xuan Hieu, village head and Party cell secretary of Luc Lieu shared: “The water in our village has never run dry, thanks to the forest’s ability to retain underground sources. It is the forest that ensures a safe and stable life for our people.”

The story of Luc Lieu offers a clear lesson: when the forest is cherished and protected with genuine belief and responsibility, it will recover and safeguard human life.

Ly Thu