Decree No. 117/2010/ND-CP on the organization and management of the special-use forest system.

This Decree provides for the organization and management of the special-use forest system in Viet Nam in order to conserve the forests’ ecosystems and biodiversity, as well as their natural landscape, cultural and historical values. It sets out procedures and requirements for the establishment of a special-use forest and it classifies special-use forests into national parks, nature conservation zones, landscape protection zones and scientific and experimentation forest zones.
The Decree addresses issues relating to land use conversion; scientific research and eco-tourism in special-use forests and sustainable use of forest resources; organization of the management board; establishment of special-use forest ranger units, wildlife rescue conservation and development centres, and buffer zones.
The Decree further provides for: management of planning work in special-use forests; investment policies and financial mechanisms applicable to special-use forests; and responsibilities of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and concerned ministries and sectors and of provincial-level People’s Committees.