Maanshan Reservoir in Maguan County, Wenshan
Chinese Name:马关县马鞍山水库
English Name: Maanshan Reservoir in Maguan County, Wenshan
Overview
Maanshan Reservoir is located 7 kilometers southeast of Maguan County town. Construction began in December 1958. However, due to its small storage capacity, large catchment area, and incomplete infrastructure, the reservoir dam was soon washed away by floodwaters. In October 1959, to address irrigation needs for the Maanshan and Shuichuanfang areas, the Jiahanqing Commune decided to rebuild the reservoir. By 1961, the reservoir was completed as a Class I small reservoir with a main dam 16.6 meters high and 81 meters long, a secondary dam 5 meters high and 170 meters long, and a storage capacity of 3 million cubic meters.
Current Status
Located in the Maanshan Village Committee of Maguan County, the reservoir now has a total storage capacity of 11.09 million cubic meters and serves as a medium-sized reservoir primarily for agricultural irrigation. In recent years, Maguan County has leveraged the reservoir’s resource advantages to enhance local tourism. The focus has been on improving water safety, ecology, environment, and scenic quality, turning the reservoir and its surroundings into a popular scenic area.
Historical Development
In 1963, to maximize the benefits of Maanshan Reservoir, the county undertook a “South-to-North Water Diversion” project, channeling water to the urban and Huazhige areas for irrigation and drinking purposes. Over 3,000 local residents from various towns participated in the construction, which included a 2-meter diameter, 346-meter long water tunnel, an 11-kilometer long main canal, and a 0.7-meter diameter, 340-meter long siphon pipe.
The reservoir has since undergone several expansions, and in 2005, it was reinforced and its storage capacity increased to 11.09 million cubic meters. The project now includes a main dam, three secondary dams, two water tunnels, an overflow channel, and two sluice towers. The reservoir is a crucial irrigation facility for the surrounding agricultural lands. In 2005, it was included in the provincial government’s “Prosper Border and Enrich the People” key projects.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Maguan County has developed the Maanshan–Dahao Tourism Scenic Area, focusing on eco-friendly leisure agriculture. Maanshan Longshujiao Village, benefiting from its mountainous and waterfront location, has become a new hotspot for rural tourism, transforming “green hills and clear waters” into “golden mountains and silver mountains.”
Key Features of Maanshan Reservoir
- Water Safety
The reservoir has undergone safety enhancements including the installation of safety nets and anti-drowning facilities. Flood control and emergency response plans ensure the reservoir’s safety during flood seasons, protecting downstream farmland and residents’ safety. - Water Ecology
Efforts have been made to integrate and enhance resources by renovating the reservoir’s shoreline, implementing green and beautification projects, and planting local tree species. The reservoir’s ecological environment has been improved through various actions, such as removing unauthorized structures and debris. - Water Landscape
With funding of 38.85 million yuan from Shanghai, the reservoir has developed walking trails, cultural activity squares, light shows, wetland parks, and other tourist facilities. The scenic area features an ecological layout including flower avenues, lakeside parks, and fruit-picking zones. - Water Economy
Leveraging the reservoir’s resources, a “company + base + farmer” model has been adopted to develop high-quality fruit farming and local tourism industries. The Dragon Tree Foot Seven Color Village has been created, and the reservoir area now receives over 50,000 visitors monthly, generating significant tourism revenue. The integration of Maanshan Reservoir with local tourism provides improved living and travel experiences for residents and visitors alike.
