Sichuan Conservation
(1) © Dai Bo, (2) © Simon Dowell, (3) © Mamize Nature Reserve, (4) © Dai Bo
To enhance networks of protected areas in China and engage local people in their sustainable management
In 1998 the devastating floods along the Yangtze River led to the introduction of the National Forest Protection Programme. This moratorium outlined changes to logging practice and land management policy within the upper Yangtze basin. Consequently these changes presented conservationists with a unique opportunity to encourage protection for the important broadleaf forest habitat and its endemic animals and plants within southern Sichuan Province. The conservation significance of this forest is highlighted by its inclusion within the Mountains of South-west China Biodiversity Hotspot (Conservation International) and the Chinese Subtropical Forest Endemic Bird Area (Birdlife International). However, prior to 1998 this ecosystem was largely ignored, with the majority of primary forest being divided into forest farms destined for commercial logging. These broadleaf forests are home to the endangered Sichuan hill-partridge (Arborophila rufipectus), which is confined to forest in central southern Sichuan and has been the subject of detailed research since 1995. Through this research it became clear that the area contained a high diversity of birds and was important for a number of other endemic species. The area is also home to the southernmost surviving population of giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) as well as several other significant threatened mammals, amphibians and plants. Surviving populations of these were seriously threatened with doubts to their long-term survival. Thus, what began as a Liverpool John Moores University research project, focusing on the endangered Sichuan hill-partridge, has evolved into a multi-faceted conservation project supported and co-managed by Chester Zoo. In partnership with the Sichuan Forest Department, the Sichuan Forest Biodiversity Project is developing a network of protected forest areas within the Liang Shan region, which engages local people in their sustainable management and cultivation.
At present there are eleven nature reserves (four supported by the project) across the Liang Shan and several of these share boundaries. However, these areas remain under threat from human pressures. One major problem is the extensive use of wood for fuel which, together with the increasing demand on land for grazing and agriculture, has led to widespread clearance and degradation in many areas. A high demand for forest products such as bamboo shoots and medicinal herbs has attracted people from outside the region and causes massive disturbance and over-exploitation at certain times of the year. Economic developments in the wider region have increased demand for electricity and natural resources such as coal and minerals, consequently causing the encroachment of hydroelectric schemes, mining activities and polluting industries. More recently the increase in wealth and income of people in many parts of China has led to a rise in the demand for tourism and this brings added pressures to beautiful areas like the Liang Shan.
The overarching aims of the project are to enhance the network of protected areas for forest biodiversity in the Liang Shan region of southern Sichuan, especially through building capacity of the local reserve staff, and to engage local people in their sustainable management and development.
At the beginning of 2009 ten objectives were outlined as part of the current three year block plan:
In addition a set of strategic objectives have been outlined in the conservation strategy for the whole Liang Shan region, which is being developed in collaboration with the Sichuan Forest Department. The strategy addresses four basic themes through its strategic objectives:
WAZA Conservation Project 10023 is implemented by Chester Zoo and Liverpool John Moores University. Other stakeholders involved in the project include the Sichuan Forest Department, Chengdu Giant Panda Captive Breeding Base and World Pheasant Association.
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(1) © Dai Bo, (2) © Simon Dowell, (3) © Mamize Nature Reserve, (4) © Dai Bo