Two years ago, Xiangfu Lake in Zhejiang’s Jiashan County was plagued by algae and pollution, covering 3,400 mu (about 227 hectares). Today, it has been transformed into a scenic destination, thanks to a major water restoration project launched in 2022.
In March 2022, CCCC Dredging (Group) Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company Limited, began implementing a water restoration project focused on ecological rehabilitation across 1.91 million square meters of water area. Measures included pollution control, shoreline improvements, aquatic plant restoration, water clarity enhancement, and a monitoring system.
A view of the Xiangfu Lake in Zhejiang’s Jiashan County [Photo/sasac.gv.cn]
According to project manager, the lakebed was once barren and unstable, with poor water quality. Restoring the ecosystem required replanting aquatic vegetation to stabilize sediments and purify the water.
The team conducted comprehensive assessments of underwater topography and soil conditions, selecting native aquatic plants such as Vallisneria, Potamogeton crispus, and hornwort, each suited to different depths and seasons. These plants were supplemented with small aquatic animals like fish, shrimp, and algae-eating organisms to form a self-sustaining underwater ecosystem. The restoration did not require large-scale construction — just targeted planting and ecological maintenance.
By the time the last hornwort was planted in the lake’s northern area, the 1.91 million-square-meter “underwater forest” had taken shape. Water quality improved significantly, with chemical oxygen demand reduced by over 60 percent, ammonia nitrogen by over 50 percent, and total phosphorus by nearly 70 percent. The system also reduces about 7,700 tons of carbon dioxide annually — equivalent to planting over 427,000 trees.
Biodiversity has also improved, with 13 types of aquatic plants naturally returning and several fish species reappearing.
Once water quality stabilizes, the lake is expected to meet Class II standards, with visibility reaching up to 2 meters. The restored lake has already begun attracting tourists and has become a popular local destination.
(Executive editor: Yuan Ting)
