The People’s Committee of Lam Dong province has decided to establish the Ta Kou Nature Reserve, covering 8,408 hectares in Ham Thuan Nam and Tan Thanh communes. Protecting such a large area is crucial for the region’s wildlife and for people who depend on the forest.

The reserve’s purpose is to protect natural forests, conserve biodiversity and endangered species, and restore degraded forest lands. It will also improve ecosystem functions and support scientific research, environmental education, and ecotourism.

Ta Kou includes 7,342 ha of natural forest, 281 ha of planted forest and 785 ha of non‑forest land. These areas are split into a strictly protected zone, an ecological restoration zone, and a service/administration zone.

The development plan for 2026–2030 is budgeted at nearly 76 billion VND (about 3 million USD), coming from public investment and other sources. The reserve’s management board will coordinate scientific research, training, environmental education, forest‑service payments and livelihood support for nearby residents.

Surveys have recorded about 287 animal species, including 32 endangered or rare species such as black‑shanked douc langurs and water monitors. This high conservation value highlights why the reserve matters for biodiversity, ecosystem health and local communities.