Pingshan River a model of ecological restoration

Pingshan River has been named in the 2024 list of exemplary provincial-level beautiful rivers and lakes released by the Guangdong Province Department of Ecology and Environment.

Once a polluted ditch, the river’s transformation showcases the harmonious coexistence of humans, water, urban areas, and industries in Pingshan. The river’s rehabilitation has also earned multiple national engineering and water conservancy awards.

As part of its near-natural restoration, fish migration channels were built, native plants introduced, and features like deep channels, shallow banks, and stepping stones added, enabling a more diverse and natural flow.

The river’s winding banks are lined with artificial wetlands that connect land and water, which has significantly increased biodiversity. It now hosts 53 fish species and 77 aquatic plant species, most of them indigenous. The sight of swimming fish, lush vegetation, and graceful egrets creates a picturesque public space for recreation.

Additionally, the Pingshan River Natural History Corridor features a 38-kilometer riverside trail linking wetlands to cultural venues, blending nature and culture in a captivating journey.