Project of "Returning Ponds to Wetlands" Ecological Restoration and Sustainable Use in Sanya Tielugang Mangrove Reserve

Rationale： According to the requirements of "Hainan Ecological Province Construction Planning Outline", based on the general policy of "comprehensive planning, active protection, scientific management, and sustainable use", the purpose is to protect the mangrove forest habitat and biodiversity in Tielu Harbor, Sanya. Through a series of measures such as habitat restoration, scientific research, resource development, public education, community co-management and personnel training, the function of the mangrove ecosystem in Tielu Harbor is planned to be maintained and improved. This project ensures effective conservation and orderly use of mangrove biodiversity in Sanya, while driving the sustainable economic and social development of the surrounding communities. The project establishes the demonstration area as a marine reserve model that balances natural ecological restoration and sustainable development of community livelihoods. The overall work plan of the project is divided into two steps to proceed, and the specific deployment is as follows. 1. 30 acres of integrated mangrove wetland restoration pilot. The project proposes to make integrated use of ecological engineering, bioremediation and ecological proliferation. First the project will construct the artificial tidal trench by simulating the geomorphology of the natural mangrove habitat. The artifical tidal trench will improve the connection between the leveled ponds and create mudflats and waters for mangrove growth and benthic breeding. Secondly, the project will improve the sediment permeability and environmental quality of the benthic environment by releasing benthic organisms that are highly tolerant and effective in restoration. Third, the project rebuilds ecosystem structure and function, which restores wetland biodiversity by re-establishing mixed mangrove forests and introducing native benthic fauna. 2. Build villagers' empowerment workshops and carry out livelihood transformation pilot. （1）Establishment of "Mangrove Habitat Restoration and Patrol Organization": Supporting mangrove habitat restoration and rehabilitation work, the project will invite experts to carry out professional guidance and technical support for restoration, and organize village committees and villagers' representatives to communicate with pilot areas with replicable models, and facilitate stakeholder enterprises and communities to jointly establish "mangrove habitat restoration and patrol organizations". （2）Implementation of the "Nature Docent" training program. In accordance with the municipality's future plans and development demands, the project aims to promote "ecotourism" by conducting assessments of potential participating households in the project area, providing training on the natural environment and ecotourism for women, and exploring the potential of rural ecotourism. 3. Environmental protection and management awareness enhancement. Carry out public education activities on environment conservation. The project intents to invite industry experts to carry out environmental protection education in the enterprises and villages to enhance the awareness of mangrove wetlands conservation, and help the development of sustainable ecotourism in Tielu Harbor.