The loss of trees caused by the devastating snowstorms in Hubei province early this year once again points to the lack of a long-term view by some local governments and people when planning forests and planting fruit trees.

In the city of Yichang, tangerine trees were introduced from southern China and some even imported from overseas in 2003, and these trees started to yield oranges last year. But a heavy blow was dealt to the villagers when almost all the trees were destroyed by the snowstorms.

Global warming has caused consecutive warm winters for more than a decade in some regions, and has led villagers to believe fruit trees from the warmer climes of the southern provinces would survive in their regions and bring economic benefits.

Some trees, not frost-resistant, were also imported from foreign countries in the belief there would be no cold spells. These trees suffered the most during the snowstorms, not witnessed in more than half a century.

Some may argue that they were just unlucky as one cannot predict mother nature. That is true. But we must not forget the fact most trees have a longer life span than humans. And, a 50-year-old tree could be just reaching its prime.

Forest experts have long called on localities to plant trees scientifically and to study their adaptability before planting them. Even without the snowstorms, trees from the south will face problems of adaptability.

It is serious lesson the local people have learnt. It is said it will take about 30 years for the rehabilitation of some forests. For those tangerine orchards, the owners will have to start from scratch again.

What is done cannot be undone. Local people have already begun restoration work, and experts have been invited to advice on the species of trees that can be planted.

Hopefully, the dictates of expediency will not cloud their vision. We Chinese have a saying that inability to see beyond ferments potential trouble beneath.

If ordinary villagers or residents do not have the foresight to look beyond their immediate interests, it is incumbent on the local leaders to do so.

(China Daily, March 21, 2008)