Jinan Baiyun Lake Wetland gains national key status

Baiyun Lake Wetland in Zhangqiu district, Jinan, has been designated as a national key wetland by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, marking a significant milestone in ecological conservation, biodiversity protection, and the preservation of historical and cultural heritage.

Covering 1,354 hectares, this rare spring-fed freshwater lake wetland is nourished by clusters of springs, including the Baimai Spring, with an annual replenishment exceeding 2.5 million cubic meters.

Fed by both springs and the Yellow River, Baiyun Lake maintains good water quality, consistently meeting Class III of the Environmental Quality Standards for Surface Water, and functions as a crucial regulator of the regional water environment.

Included in the first batch of important terrestrial wildlife habitats in 2023, Baiyun Lake Wetland serves as a key stopover site along the migratory bird flyway. A total of 145 bird species have been recorded here, including those with national first-class protection and globally critically endangered species.

During autumn and winter, over 5,000 migratory birds have been observed stopping over, while nationally protected plants such as wild soybeans thrive throughout the wetland, highlighting its biological richness.

Beyond being an ecological treasure, the wetland is also a cultural and recreational landmark. Famous poets such as Li Qingzhao (1084-1155) and Zhang Yanghao (1270-1329) immortalized Baiyun Lake's beauty in their works.

Today, the wetland's scenery makes it an ideal destination for strolling, biking, boating, fishing, and camping. Summer draws visitors to marvel at the vast, blooming red lotus, while spring and autumn offer prime opportunities for birdwatching.