Source: CCTV.com

11-28-2008 09:27

In Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is another effort to preserve China's natural heritage. The region is known for its primeval poplar forests, which have abounded on the banks of the Tarim River since time immemorial. Now, a huge undertaking is in progress to establish a nature reserve to protect the hardy deciduous tree.

A huge undertaking is in progress to establish a nature reserve to protect the hardy deciduous tree.

Creation of the Tarim Primeval Poplar Nature Reserve has been approved by the forestry authority of the region's Bazhou Prefecture and the State Forestry Administration of China. The initiative will cost more than 11 million RMB. The funding will go chiefly toward construction of management offices, check-points, watchtowers, and other facilities. During the first phase, a 40 kilometer patrol route will be constructed to facilitate the works of forest protection officers.

A huge undertaking is in progress to establish a nature reserve to protect the hardy deciduous tree.

The Tarim Primeval Poplar Forest is at the northern edge of the Taklamakan Desert. It covers four thousand square kilometers. The ecosystem provides habitat for eight species under class-one state protection and 26 species under second-class state protection. There are the golden eagle, wild camel, and the black spoonbill. Most of these species are listed in the International Convention Against Trade in Endangered Wildlife. The Tarim region is also recognized as an important breeding ground and wintering region for migratory birds.