Deterioration and fragmentation of habitats are two major problems that conservation efforts face. Rivers and wetlands have lost 50% of their area globally and, today, wetlands account for only 5% of the world’s area. However, their productivity is four times that of ordinary farm land and they also have economic and ecological value because they retain carbon, inhibit floods, purify water, supplement ground water and provide a habitat for wild creatures.

20 Lanren River rangers trained by Kenting National Park Headquarters began there work protecting the river and fish and reporting prohibited acts (illegal fishing and digging of gravel etc) on November. Their work also includes actively improving the river environment and removal of Mile-a-minute weed (Mikania micrantha 小花蔓澤蘭) and river traps and making simple trails using available materials for use in eco-education to promote Manzhou’s eco-tourism industry.

The example set by the rangers has set off a chain reaction and local residents have successively expressed a willingness to use the life wisdom of their ancestors and follow ecological principles to create a diverse freshwater ecosystem in Gangkou River in which various creatures, including insects, fish, shrimps, crabs and shellfish can reproduce, to remind the public of the importance of wetlands and of protecting natural habitats.

Translated by：Kevin Lax
Source：Kenting National Park Headquarters