Bat Xat Nature Reserve, Lao Cai

Long-leaf barberry was discovered in Bat Xat Nature Reserve – source: http://www.baolaocai.vn/

In 2016, Lao Cai Provincial People’s Committee issued Decision No. 1954/QD-UBND on the establishment of Bat Xat Nature Reserve, located in the Northwest, close to the Vietnam – China border and Lai Chau province.

Bat Xat Nature Reserve has geographical coordinates from 220 23′ to 220 37′ North latitude and from 103031′ to 103043′ East longitude; located at the beginning of Hoang Lien Son mountain range, on the administrative boundary of 5 communes Y Ty, Den Sang, Sang Ma Sao, Trung Leng Ho, Nam Pung of Bat Xat district. The total area of ​​the Nature Reserve is 18,637 ha, including 20 sub-areas, of which: Strict protection sub-area 14,868 ha, ecological restoration sub-area 3,613 ha, administrative and service sub-area 156 ha.

According to the Lao Cai Provincial Forest Protection Department, the establishment of Bat Xat Nature Reserve affirms Lao Cai province’s determination in conserving the highland primeval forest ecosystem and endangered, rare, endemic and characteristic flora and fauna species of the Hoang Lien Son mountain region. In particular, it is necessary to protect and sustainably develop 15,000 hectares of natural forest, including 940 species of vascular plants, of which 44 species are listed in the Vietnam and World Red Book; 157 species of vertebrates (of which 31 species are listed in the Vietnam and World Red Book), creating a shield for the border belt area, ensuring national defense and security.

Source: Department of Natural Resources and Environment