Three conventions to protect Lugu Lake

Three joint conventions surrounding migratory bird protection, traffic operation and scenic planning in Lugu Lake were approved during the fourth joint session of the Yunnan-Sichuan Lugu Lake Protection Committee held in Yanyuan county of Sichuan province. The three conventions will serve as a foundation for further conservation cooperation between the two provinces in the area.

A convention on migratory birds has mapped out the two provinces’ respective responsibilities in migratory bird and wetland protection adhering to territorial principles. The hunting, selling and eating of migratory birds was prohibited by the convention. It also set a migratory bird habitat protection period in Lugu Lake every year, which lasts from the first day of November to the end of next March.

According to the two provinces’ joint convention on Lugu Lake transportation, commercial vehicles will be able to travel between Yunnan and Sichuan through related passes issued by the two sides’ scenic area management institutions. The two sides, moreover, will share stations and other traffic service facilities around Lugu Lake.

The third convention passed in the session focused on planning for the Lugu Lake scenic area. Two provinces will be able to create their own specific scenic plans, but they must be based on bilateral negotiation and coordination. This convention asked the two sides to carry out regular communication.

Lugu Lake, a national key scenic spot, lies on the border of Ninglang county in Yunnan province and Yanyuan county in Sichuan province. The two provinces established a joint conference work system to protect the lake and its surrounding environment in 2010.