Shanxi issues guidelines to upgrade nature reserves

North China's Shanxi province recently issued new guidelines to promote the upgrading of nature reserves. 

It aims to establish a modernized system of natural protected areas with Taihang Mountain National Park as the core and various nature parks as supplementary elements. 

The guidelines emphasize three key functions for nature reserves: nature conservation, scientific research and monitoring, and public education. 

The document specifies that newly established nature reserves should include areas with ecological value, a concentrated distribution of rare and endangered wildlife species, and significant natural heritage sites. It strictly prohibits any projects that do not align with the functional positioning and management requirements of nature reserves. 

In cases where natural ecological systems or heritage sites within nature reserves are damaged due to historical reasons or natural disasters, the management institutions and relevant authorities are required to develop scientific protection and restoration plans and carry out timely repairs. 

Furthermore, nature reserves should conduct comprehensive scientific surveys at regular intervals to comprehensively understand the current status of its wildlife resources. This allows local authorities to objectively reflect on ecological development with accurate data. 

They are also required to implement quarantine measures to strictly control the invasion of foreign harmful species and the occurrence of harmful biological disasters.

Leveraging the unique ecological advantages of nature reserves, the guidelines call for the development of distinct trails, bird-watching areas, and nature classrooms, as well as the creation of study programs that are suitable for primary and secondary school students, the publication of popular science books, and the promotion of nature education and experiential activities. These efforts will support ecological and moral education among young people, as well as enhance the nature reserves' role in popularizing natural science.