Qinghuadian National Wetland Park in Lanping County, Nujiang
Overview
Qinghuadian National Wetland Park (箐花甸国家湿地公园) is situated in Lanping County (兰坪县), Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture (怒江傈僳族自治州) of Yunnan Province, China. The park spans a total area of 478.82 hectares and officially received national recognition in January 2022.
Location and Geography
The park is located in the southern part of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau within the Yunling Mountains (云岭山脉). It features a unique topography with numerous streams that flow in a north-south direction. The waters from the northeast flow into the Jinsha River (金沙江) through the Liming River (黎明河), while those from the south merge into the Lancang River (澜沧江) via the Tongdian River (通甸河). This confluence creates a breathtaking landscape, highlighting the beauty of wetlands spanning two major rivers.
Name Origin
The park is named after Qinghua Village (箐花村), characterized by its rich natural features including meadows, glacial landforms, wetlands, and various types of terrain. The area was first explored in 2000 and was originally named Dayangchang Scenic Area (大羊场风景区). It became a pilot national wetland park in December 2016, passing final assessments in December 2021.
Area Details
Elevation and Size
The park is located on a watershed ridge between the Tongdian River and the Liming River, with an elevation exceeding 3,200 meters. The total area is 478.82 hectares, of which 207 hectares are marsh wetlands, resulting in a wetland ratio of 43.23%. The various types of wetland include:
- Herbaceous marshes: 20.73 hectares
- Shrub marshes: 45.65 hectares
- Marsh meadows: 138.67 hectares
- Permanent river wetlands: 1.95 hectares
Biodiversity
Ecosystem Characteristics
The park features a rich variety of ecosystems, including glacial and ice-eroded landforms, wetlands, and flowing topographies. The biodiversity is extensive, with:
- Vascular plants: 75 families, 150 genera, and 278 species.
- Nationally protected plant species: 2 (油麦吊云杉 and 金铁锁)
- Mammals: 35 species, including 3 nationally protected species (猕猴, 黑熊, and 豹猫).
- Birds: 58 species, with 1 first-class protected species (滇金丝猴) and 9 second-class protected species.
- Amphibians: 10 species
- Reptiles: 8 species
Notable Species
Some notable species in the park include:
- Birds: Black-eared Kite (黑耳鸢), Crested Serpent Eagle (凤头鹰), Eurasian Sparrowhawk (雀鹰), Common Buzzard (普通鵟), Collared Owlet (斑头鸺鹠), and Red Falcon (红隼).
- Mammals: Yunnan Golden Monkey (滇金丝猴), Black Bear (黑熊), and Leopard Cat (豹猫).
Scenic Features
Alpine Meadows
Entering the alpine meadows, visitors are greeted by a vast expanse of greenery that resembles a lush carpet crafted by nature. The meadows shimmer under the sun, creating a magical and ethereal environment.
Rhododendron Sea
The mountains are adorned with blooming rhododendrons in various colors, including pink, white, and purple. The sight of these flowers, accompanied by grazing livestock, creates a stunning visual experience that resembles a living painting.
River Curves
The rivers create beautiful serpentine curves as they flow through the meadows. This natural formation, shaped over time, is captivating and picturesque, drawing visitors into the serene landscape.
Cultural Highlights
Pumi Ethnic Village
The Pumi ethnic village (普米族村寨) offers a glimpse into the traditional culture of the Pumi people. The village showcases rich cultural practices that remain largely unaffected by outside influences, making it a significant cultural resource.
Rhododendron Culture Festival
The Rhododendron Cultural Festival (杜鹃文化节) is held annually from May to August, celebrating the blooming of rhododendrons. The festival features various cultural activities, including live performances, flower photography, and traditional Pumi celebrations.
Conservation Efforts and Community Involvement
Since its establishment, Qinghuadian National Wetland Park has played a crucial role in biodiversity conservation and the economic development of local communities. The park employs local herders as ecological forest rangers, integrating community livelihoods with conservation efforts.
Employment of Local Herders
Local herders have benefited from training programs that focus on wetland protection, wildlife conservation, and eco-tourism management. As a result, they have become stewards of the environment, actively participating in preserving the park’s natural resources.
Community Development
The park’s establishment has fostered economic growth within the community. Local herders have formed cooperatives for forest products and engaged in eco-tourism activities, enhancing their income while contributing to environmental sustainability.
How to Get There
Qinghuadian National Wetland Park is accessible by road from major cities in Yunnan Province. The nearest city is Lijiang (丽江), located about 120 kilometers away. Visitors can reach the park via public transportation, including buses and taxis.
Suggested Route:
- From Lijiang: Take a bus from Lijiang’s bus station to Lanping County, then use local transportation to reach the park.
- From Dali: Buses are also available from Dali (大理) to Lanping County.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early summer (May to June) for the best views of rhododendron blooms.
- Wildlife Watching: Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching and wildlife observation.
- Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, particularly the rhododendrons and flowing rivers.
- Respect Nature: Follow park regulations and guidelines to help preserve the delicate ecosystem.
List of Attractions and Names
- Qinghuadian National Wetland Park (箐花甸国家湿地公园)
- Lanping County (兰坪县)
- Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture (怒江傈僳族自治州)
- Jinsha River (金沙江)
- Liming River (黎明河)
- Tongdian River (通甸河)
- Pumi Ethnic Village (普米族村寨)
- Rhododendron Cultural Festival (杜鹃文化节)
This comprehensive information provides an in-depth understanding of Qinghuadian National Wetland Park, making it a compelling destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
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