Short communicationGradual expansion of mangrove areas as an ecological solution for stabilizing a severely eroded mangrove dominated muddy coast

While current coastal erosion solutions have had limited success in controlling coastal erosion, the gradual expansion of mangrove areas was effective in stabilizing an actively eroded mangrove dominated muddy coast in Vam Ray, Kien Giang, Vietnam for a short time period. The gradual expansion method was developed as a result of local comprehensive involvement and capacity, and the integration of different knowledge systems. However, the method was not sufficiently reported. Local involvement and capacity were not adequately emphasized during the reporting process. Insufficient reporting caused the failure in replicating the method elsewhere in Kien Giang. Inadequate emphasis of local involvement and capacity probably breached moral rights for the Vam Ray community. This manuscript documented the gradual expansion method using different sources of data and information and inputs from the key Vam Ray community members. The gradual expansion method involved closure of current mangrove gaps by transplanting mangroves protected by appropriate fences as the first stage, and gradual expansion of the mangrove belt seawards in the second stage. The method has a potential replication elsewhere in Vietnam and in Southeast Asia.