The Xuma Wetland area in Qianduo town, Xinghua, Jiangsu province, was once so sparsely populated that locals referred to it as Xumahuang, or "Xuma the Wild". After years of restoration, the wetland now attracts throngs of visitors.
The restored wetland is rich in wildlife. It is home to 159 or more bird species, including common birds and species under national first- and second-class protection, such as the Oriental white stork and Chinese merganser.
Zhao Rongpan, deputy head of Qianduo town, said that after the site was rated a national 3A tourist attraction late last year, the town began upgrading the Xuma Wetland to combine ecological restoration with scenic area operations and use ecological resources to support local agriculture, culture and tourism.
A boat cruises along the waterway at Xuma Wetland. [Photo/WeChat account: xinghuafabu]
As part of the upgrade, the town dredged waterways, replanted native aquatic plants, and added visitor service points, public restrooms, and eco-friendly parking areas. It also improved land and water tour routes and created a boat tour linking 10 attractions.
On Love Island, one of the attractions along the boat tour, visitors can write wishes on blessing plaques. The town is also planning biodiversity observation points and camping sites.