Indigenous Knowledge in Exploiting and Using Forest Resources of the Ha Nhi People in Ka Lang Community, Muong Te District, Lai Chau Province, Vietnam

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge plays a vital role in the life and production of ethnic minorities. Due to their long association with available resources, including forest resources, the Ha Nhi people in Ka Lang House, Muong Te district, Lai Chau province, Vietnam, have diverse experience in exploiting and using forest resources. Indigenous knowledge plays an essential role in people's lives. Initial research results have shown that the knowledge of Ha Nhi people in exploiting and using forest resources is quite rich. The Ha Nhi exploit various forest products, including timber, firewood, non-timber forest products, and wild animals. People use them for a lot of different purposes. However, the problem of people's exploitation and use of forest resources could be more sustainable due to the rapid population growth. The decline of forest resources and the traditional experiences transmitted orally, yet to be documented, has led to a situation where knowledge is increasingly being lost.