Baima River named provincial model for ecological conservation

The Baima River in Qingdao West Coast New Area has been named among Shandong's third group of model rivers and lakes for ecological conservation, recognizing its progress in river management and environmental protection.

The river originates from the northwestern foothills of Tiejueshan Mountain and runs 44.2 kilometers before flowing into the sea.

Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), its water quality has remained at Class III, supplying an average of 18.54 million cubic meters of drinking water each year and 8.3 million cubic meters of industrial water to the Dongjiakou Chemical Industrial Park. More than 6,800 square meters of waterfront landscape have also been developed, while aquatic vegetation now covers 59.19 percent of the river.

The river's ecological environment has continued to improve. Ecological buffer zones and underwater forest systems have been established, leading to increases in native fish, birds and other aquatic species. Biodiversity across the river basin has also continued to recover.

The improved environment has supported local industries as well. Nine modern agricultural parks have been built along the river, creating jobs and increasing incomes for nearby residents. Local authorities said they will continue promoting ecological conservation while supporting high-quality development along the river.

An aerial view of the Baima River. [Photo/WeChat account: qdxihaianfabu]