Lake attracts expert as it inspires new wave of research and learning

SHIJIAZHUANG — On a summer day, a group of students accompanied John Howes, a bird expert from Britain, on an enchanting educational expedition to an islet in Hengshui Lake, North China's Hebei province.

On the islet, Howes captivated his audience with simple yet compelling storytelling techniques. He delved into topics, such as wetlands, their significance, and the intricate web of life that sustains them.

The participants in the study tour were mainly students from the Zhizhen Middle School in Hengshui city, Hebei. Through interactive discussions and role-playing activities, students were able to grasp the importance of ecological diversity and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

"This biology class has provided us with a wealth of ecological knowledge, and more importantly, helped us develop an ecological mindset to care for nature, starting with ourselves," says Mou Zhijie, a student who was part of the group.

The lake has become an important ecological research and learning base for environmental agencies, schools, and various organizations throughout the country. It is recognized not only for its educational value, but also as a sanctuary for a wide variety of bird species.

Hengshui Lake is a national nature reserve that boasts a complete wetland ecosystem. It is home to 333 bird species, including 21 that are under China's top protection.

Howes has been a frequent visitor to the lake. The ornithologist's excursions to the lake started back in 2015, when the rare Baer's Pochard was discovered, marking the beginning of a journey of collaboration and conservation.

"The ecology of Hengshui Lake is unique and holds great research value. I love this place," Howes says.

Hengshui Lake has become the most important known breeding location for Baer's Pochard, a type of diving duck listed as a critically endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In 2017, 308 pochard ducks were recorded at the lake.

According to Howes, he sees improvements every time he comes to Hengshui Lake.

To boost the ecological environment of the entire Hengshui Lake wetland, the municipal government has taken measures such as sealing off sewage outlets that discharge into the lake, demolishing illegal constructions along its shore and relocating surrounding villages and main roads, says Liu Zhenjie, deputy director of the administration committee of Lakeside New Area.

The new area that administers Hengshui Lake has also restored 350 hectares of waterfowl habitats at the north of the lake, designated seasonal core areas to reduce human interference, and planted crops such as wheat and corn to provide food for the birds, according to Zhang Yuguang, an official with the Hengshui Lake national nature reserve.