On December 8, the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations (VUSTA)recognized the Ha Long - Cat Ba Alliance sustainable aquaculture and responsible tourism demonstration site as an “Excellent Sustainable Development Model of 2016.”  USAID local implementing partner, the Center for Marinelife Conservation and Community Development (MCD), received the award for the USAID-funded demonstration site in Vung Vieng, Ha Long Bay. The demonstration site not only showcases sustainable aquaculture, but also provides an excellent example of how local NGOs and government authorities in Ha Long Bay can work closely and collaboratively to find ways to preserve and protect the bay.