The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwest China is undertaking a significant environmental initiative to divert 510 million cubic meters of floodwater this year. This ambitious plan aims to replenish the water supply of the desert poplar forests in the Tarim River Basin, bolstering the region’s ecological resilience.
Last year, Xinjiang successfully redirected over 1.1 billion cubic meters of floodwater—197 percent of the expected capacity—to aid these vital forests. According to the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, approximately 181,333 hectares of forest were irrigated through these flood diversion efforts. As a result, vegetation coverage in the irrigated areas saw a year-on-year increase of 4.3 percent.
The desert poplar forests along the Tarim River, China’s longest inland river, span more than 666,000 hectares. They represent the largest natural forest area of this species and serve as a crucial ecological barrier in southern Xinjiang, protecting against desertification and supporting biodiversity.
Despite the desert poplar’s renowned drought tolerance, extensive areas of these trees have perished since the 1950s due to excessive water resource exploitation along the Tarim River. Recognizing the urgency, Xinjiang launched a restoration project in 2019 aimed at reviving the dwindling forests and enhancing their natural restoration capabilities through strategic flood diversion.
This ongoing effort not only revitalizes the desert poplar forests but also underscores the region’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices. By harnessing excess floodwater, Xinjiang is taking proactive steps to preserve its natural heritage and promote ecological balance in the Tarim River Basin.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
