Springing into action

Around 50 kilometers to the east of the old city area, a park of Baimai Springs, which translates to "100 springs", located in Jinan's Zhangqiu district, is a popular place on weekends.

In the park, spring water flows over stone steps.

Springs have long been integrated into residents' lives. Authorities have regarded the springs as the lifeblood and soul of the city — the protection of the springs was a major priority when the subway was built and older communities renovated.

In recent years, the local government has boosted the springs with water replenishment and improved the ecological environment in the supply area.

Since 2019, 315 private wells have been closed, which has reduced the use of underground water by 12 million cubic meters, authorities say.

Ecological systems have been substantially improved at water conservation areas around several rivers to ensure abundant underground water supply for the springs.