Sanhe Water Conservancy Scenic Area

Sanhe Water Conservancy Scenic Area

Sanhe Water Conservancy Scenic Area is a National Water Conservancy Scenic Area and a National Wetland Park.

Sanhe Water Conservancy Scenic Area is situated on the land of Jianghuai, by Chaohu Lake, adjacent to the provincial capital Hefei. The scenic area extends from Fengle River (upstream of the north sluice of Xiaonan River) in the west to the mouth where Hangbu River flows into Chaohu Lake in the east, from the lakeside embankment of the old course of Hangbu River flowing into Chaohu in the north to the confluence of Xiaonan River and Hangbu River in the south. The planned area of the scenic zone is 22 square kilometers, including 6.58 square kilometers of water area. Built along 10.5 km of the second-level Chaohu levee, the scenic area features two small (Class I) sluice gates, 36 small (Class II) sluice gates, and 45 pumping stations of various sizes. Its hydrological landscapes mainly consist of “rivers, wetlands, ditches, ponds, and lakes,” offering abundant water resources. The water system primarily includes the Xiaonan River, the urban section of the Fengle River, the urban section to Chaohu Lake of the Hangbu River, as well as the old course of the Hangbu River, all with good water connectivity and high ornamental value.

The overall layout of the scenic area follows a “one core, one belt, three zones” structure: one reception center, one waterfront landscape recreation belt, and three functional zones — the Ancient Town Cultural Experience Zone, the Wellness and Leisure Resort Zone, and the Wetland Leisure & Farming Experience Zone. With rich scenic resources, superior development conditions, a healthy aquatic ecological environment, and relatively complete service facilities, the scenic area employs spatial design, green space planning, and landscape organization to harmonize landscape aesthetics with flood control and leisure functions. It seamlessly integrates natural and cultural landscapes, combining engineering features, natural scenery, and ecological-humanistic resources to present a perfect picture of harmony between humans and water, as well as the healthy development of aquatic ecology and environment.

Within the Sanhe Water Conservancy Scenic Area lies the Sanhe Wetland Park, which has been approved by the National Forestry Administration as a pilot site for a National Wetland Park. The wetland park boasts a unique geographical location, dense hills and ponds, crisscrossing rivers, and a rich diversity of wildlife, including 316 species of vascular plants from 90 families and 106 species of wild animals. Wetland conservation ensures the optimal allocation, rational use, and comprehensive management of Sanhe’s water resources, delivering substantial ecological, economic, and social benefits, while playing a vital role in safeguarding the quality and quantity of water resources.