Sichuan Nanhe National Wetland Park

Sichuan Nanhe National Wetland Park

Sichuan Nanhe National Wetland Park is a national-level wetland park.

Sichuan Nanhe National Wetland Park is located at the confluence of the Nanhe River and the Wanyuan River, both first-level tributaries of the Jialing River on the northern edge of the Sichuan Basin, covering a total area of 111 hectares. The park was initially established in 2006, approved by the State Forestry Administration as a national wetland park pilot site in December 2009, and officially became a national wetland park after passing inspection in October 2013.

The park features two major natural water systems—the Nanhe River and the Wanyuan River—along with four man-made lakes: North Lake, Middle Lake, South Lake, and Facing Lake. There is also a 13,000-square-meter terraced field returned to nature, three water storage ponds including the Hiking Square and Nanshan Viewing Platform, and seven ecological streams that connect the rivers, lakes, ponds, and terraced fields. The Jialing River, a first-level tributary of the Yangtze River, runs along the western edge of the park, bringing the call of the mountains and the affection of the sea, adding dynamic water features and charm to the park. During the initial construction phase, the government invested heavily in building two artificially controlled inflatable rubber dams on the Nanhe River system on both the eastern and western sides of the park. These dams regulate water levels according to seasonal changes and the survival needs of various wetland species. In addition to an interconnected system of rivers, lakes, and ponds, the park also has abundant groundwater resources. During the wet season, groundwater seepage can be seen throughout the park. The park’s well-developed wetland hydrological system, along with its lively water scenery, charm, and form, form the essential foundation and key support for establishing a national wetland park.

In addition to its rich wetland water resources, the park also boasts unique advantages such as over 10 wild bird islands covering more than 10,000 square meters within the wetland conservation area, and approximately 3 million square meters of shallow river beaches around the islands suitable for the habitat and breeding of waterfowl. The wild bird islands are separated from the mainland of the park by natural inland rivers, free from any human disturbance, which helps effectively protect the waterfowl and their habitats.

Since its establishment, the park has attracted a large number of domestic and international tourists with its high-quality ecological environment, picturesque natural scenery, and distinctive wetland allure. It serves as an exceptional leisure and fitness destination for local residents to connect with nature, as well as an important base for science education among primary and secondary school students.