The Haifeng Wetland Nature Reserve in Zanyi County, known as the "Little Guilin of Yunnan," was once a hidden gem. However, as photography enthusiasts and travelers shared posts on forums and websites, the wetland has gained some fame, attracting an increasing number of visitors. While this has boosted local tourism, it has also placed significant pressure on environmental conservation efforts.
When reporters visited the Haifeng Wetland Nature Reserve with the Yunnan Environmental Protection Century Journey press group on the 21st, they were captivated by the emerald-green aquatic plants, fresh air, and unique wetland scenery. Many visitors took beautiful photos there.
The Haifeng Wetland Nature Reserve was established as a provincial-level reserve in May 2012 with the approval of the provincial government. Covering a total area of 26,610 hectares, it features a typical karst wetland landscape that integrates mountains, water, forests, rocks, caves, pools, and grasslands. The wetland centers around the Lanshipo Haizi Wetland and consists of four wetland areas: Ganhaizi, Beihai, and Heitan River. The area boasts steep mountains, cliffs, and scattered stone peaks, stone forests, caves, sinkholes, and vast marshlands. It is home to 49 species of migratory and resident birds, including first-class nationally protected animals such as the black-necked crane, black stork, and Siberian crane.
According to officials from the Zanyi County Environmental Protection Bureau, the Zanyi County Party Committee and County Government place high importance on wetland conservation. To date, 2,000 biogas pits have been built, 1,800 mu of farmland has been returned to forest, and the wetland area has increased by over 2,000 mu. These efforts have improved the habitat for various waterfowl, leading to a notable increase in the number and diversity of bird species. The spoon-billed sandpiper was spotted here for the first time last July.
"Haifeng Wetland attracts visitors with its unique natural scenery. The number of tourists has surged from fewer than 10,000 three years ago to nearly 100,000 today. During this year's May Day holiday, we had to receive tens of thousands of visitors every day, far exceeding the scenic area's capacity. In addition, many visitors litter indiscriminately, polluting the environment. Although the nature reserve administration has stepped up environmental protection publicity, advised against visitors entering the water, and cleared litter left behind by tourists, wetland management still faces the dilemma of being 'overrun by tourism'," said Cui Guifen, deputy director of the Haifeng Wetland Nature Reserve Administration, helplessly.
Cui Guifen hopes to appeal through the media, asking visitors not to litter or damage saplings and flowers, but to consciously protect the wetland’s ecological environment and contribute to building a more beautiful Yunnan.