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Sarus Crane

Sarus Crane Restoration and Regenerative Agriculture: A Groundbreaking Initiative at Tram Chim National Park

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Photo: A crane-friendly rice farm in the buffer zone of Tram Chim National Park, Vietnam.

The International Crane Foundation, in partnership with Mekong Organics and Vietnam Wild Tour & Research LTD (WILDTOUR), is thrilled to announce the project entitled “Sarus Crane Restoration and Regenerative Agriculture Pilot” at Tram Chim National Park, Vietnam. With a grant of 50,000 USD from the Conservation, Food & Health Foundation, the project will improve biodiversity conservation through regenerative rice farming practices that benefit local communities and the environment.

This initiative not only addresses the alarming decline in Sarus Crane populations but also pioneers a regenerative rice farming model that improves soil health, restores natural hydrology, and enhances farmers’ livelihoods. By aligning biodiversity conservation goals with sustainable farming, we are setting the stages for agricultural and food system transformation in the vicinity of Tram Chim National Park, Dong Thap Province.

Dr. Triet Tran

Southeast Asia Program Director, ICF

Key Highlights of the Project:

  • Scale up the locally crane-friendly “Sentara Rice” business model up to 40 hectares, involving 10 local rice farmers.
  • Reduction of agrochemical use through regenerative rice-based farming systems such as rice, fish, and duck farming.
  • Creating habitats for Sarus Cranes, aquatic animals, and other wildlife, especially migratory birds.
  • Improve public awareness about regenerative rice farming and biodiversity conservation through locally led, co-designed training, campaigns, and marketing activities.

The project will demonstrate that regenerative rice farming can be a sustainable, practical solution to the conservation-food-health nexus, offering a replicable model for other tropical wetland deltaic regions. A crane-friendly farming practice in the buffer zone of Tram Chim National Park is an essential component of the 10-year Sarus Crane conservation program that Dong Thap Province just initiated.

From left: Mr. Nguyen Hoai Bao (Wildtour), Dr. Nguyen Van Kien (Mekong Organics), Dr. Triet Tran (International Crane Foundation)

The International Crane Foundation has been a global leader in crane conservation for over 50 years, working across continents to protect cranes and their habitats. Since 1988, our initiatives in Southeast Asia have contributed significantly to establishing several wetland protected areas, such as Tram Chim National Park, a wetland of international importance.

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Mekong Organics was established in 2019 to lead the regenerative organic agriculture training and trade connection for smallholder farmers and small businesses in the Mekong Region.

Wildtour, established in 2005 and based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is a private company dedicated to delivering exceptional wildlife experiences and promoting environmental conservation. While operating as a for-profit entity, Wildtour is deeply committed to social responsibility and has spearheaded numerous conservation initiatives across Vietnam.

 

 

 

Story submitted by Dr. Triet Tran, Southeast Asia Program Director. Click here to learn more about our Asia Program.

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