Authorities in Quang Binh Province, Vietnam have just approved a new regulation on the administration and conservation of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which will take effect on December 15.

The entire heritage area and buffer zone that have been recognized as a Natural World Heritage site by UNESCO, including 100,296 hectares of strictly protected subdivision, 19,119 hectares of ecological restoration area, and a 220,000-hectare buffer zone, are covered by the regulation, the provincial People's Committee said on Tuesday last week.

A list of 17 banned activities in the administration, protection, and promotion of heritage resources is an essential aspect of this regulation.

Some of the banned activities include using air horns, revving vehicle engines, using herbicides, and raising animals and exotic plants without approval.

Writing, drawing on stalactites in caves and historic regions, engraving or marking trees, and carrying out activities that degrade or shatter stalactites are also prohibited.

The park management board is required to yearly inspect inventory changes to the forest, as well as conduct research on planting indigenous trees and appropriate medicinal herbs in order to expand the forest's diversity.

Every three years, the board submits a report to the provincial People's Committee on biodiversity trends.

Besides, organizations and individuals involved in tourism or renting forests within the boundaries of the heritage site must respect the cultures and beliefs of indigenous residents.

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