Supported by funding from Franklinia Foundation, we will be undertaking a 2-year project (2025-2027) in Laos and Vietnam to cultivate and conserve ten threatened species of Fagaceae. With our project partners from Morton Arboretum, IRD, VNUF, and Dalat University, and local partners from the Life Science Research Centre, (Science and Innovation Research Institute, Lao Ministry of Education and Sports), we will map populations of threatened species in the protected areas, undertake seed collecting for off site propagation in nurseries, and then conduct replanting to strengthen the in-situ populations. Our project includes training workshops on identification and propagation for students and staff from NGOs and key stakeholders in the region. We will also strengthen public awareness through joint tree-planting activities with local schools and communities, and public and online seminars to share botanical and propagation knowledge with as many people as possible. We would like to acknowledge the Franklinia Foundation for providing foundational support and funding for our project and vital tree conservation activities in the region. ACTG would also like to recognize Morton Arboretum for providing important logistical support for this project. Finally, we are very grateful to the Nakai Nam Theun National Park administration and NTPC authority for hosting and supporting our project in their areas.
