Dongying, China: Setting an Example and Benchmark for Ecological Protection and Governance

Oriental white storks have recently settled into the Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve in Dongying, Shandong Province, bringing a unique sight to the region (Video –
https://english.dzwww.com/shandongnews/202210/t20221011_10923537.htm), according to the Information Office of Dongying Municipal People’s Government. Whilst the Yellow River Delta is not a customary breeding ground for oriental white storks, their increasing populations at the nature reserve is inseparable from the continuous wetland restoration and ongoing habitat improvement projects.

Dongying has a long-term commitment to shouldering the major responsibility of ecological protection and governance in the Yellow River Delta. To this end, it has been providing technical solutions for ecological restoration and governance through strengthening cooperation with more than 30 scientific research institutions, such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Forestry. It has also established eight scientific research bases, which have clocked up more than 20 scientific research achievements that can be reproduced and promoted. A more magnificent and vibrant Yellow River Delta is emerging as a result of a range of projects aimed at gradual improvements in biodiversity. These include habitat protection for key species such as oriental white storks, black-headed gulls, and cranes, as well as the conservation of native plants such as Chinese tamarisk and wild soybeans and the restoration of aquatic life.

Source: The Information Office of Dongying Municipal People’s Government