Wudang Mountains seek world geo-park status

The Wudang Mountains are preparing to apply for recognition as a world geo-park. Dai Guangzhong, head of Hubei’s Institute of Geological Science, and Li Faping, vice-mayor of Shiyan city and committee secretary of the Wudang Special Economic Zone, held a talk on their preparation strategies for this application.

The ancient building complex in the Wudang Mountains[Photo/wudangshan.gov.cn]

Dai said the Wudang Mountains are rich in both geological resources and historical heritage, and they undoubtedly have the potential to become an international-level geo-park. Dai pointed out that the mountains are a major part of the South Qinling orogenic belt, which is of great scientific significance.

Meanwhile, Wudang is also famous for its cultural heritage and its ancient architectural complex. There are also several national-, provincial- and municipal-level nature reserves within the area. According to the world geo-park application guide and requirements, the Wudang Mountains are highly qualified for this honor.

On behalf of Wudang Special Zone, Li expressed appreciation for the institute’s support. He said the government has attached great importance to this application. This signifies the government’s continued support of geological resources, as well as its long-term plan to promote Wudang as a tourist hot spot and create more economic, social and environmental benefits.

World geo-parks are rated and selected by UNESCO under a very strict application process. Currently, Shennongjia is the only declared world geo-park in Hubei province.

Edited by Zhang Qiong and Noelle Mateer