Once a barren landscape plagued by sandstorms, Haba Lake National Nature Reserve in northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region has undergone a stunning transformation into a verdant oasis teeming with wildlife.
Located in Yanchi County, where 80 percent of the land was once desertified, Haba Lake was a symbol of the harsh conditions that gripped the region decades ago. Sandstorms not only ravaged the environment but also entrenched the local population in poverty.
Determined to restore their homeland, the people of Yanchi County embarked on an ambitious mission to combat desertification. One of the most significant and challenging steps was the cessation of the traditional Tan sheep breeding industry, a move that required sacrificing an age-old livelihood for the greater good of environmental recovery.
Through concerted efforts in afforestation and land greening, the barren sands began to give way to lush vegetation. The county invested in planting trees and plants that could withstand the arid conditions, gradually stabilizing the sand dunes and restoring the soil.
Today, Haba Lake stands as a testament to human perseverance and the power of ecological restoration. The once desolate reserve has been transformed into a wildlife paradise, home to a diverse array of species and a beacon of hope for other regions battling desertification.
The vibrant and lush scenery now makes it hard to imagine the area’s former desolation. Haba Lake’s green miracle not only revitalized the local ecosystem but also improved the livelihoods of its residents, demonstrating how harmonious coexistence between humans and nature is possible.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
