Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the westernmost region in China, will invest 13.68 million yuan (1.65 million) in the coming three years to build a wetland reserve along the Ertix River, China's only river emptying into the Arctic Ocean, according to the local government. 

The Keketuohai wetland reserve, located in Habahe County, covers 990.4 square kilometers and comprises zones for the protection of birds, fish, hoofed animals and poplar and birch trees.

Ertix River runs for 663 kilometers in China. Construction of the Keketuohai wetland reserve is expected to better protect the safety, integrity and stability of the wetland eco-system in the area, experts said.

Wetlands play a vital role in water conservation and purification as well as prevention of flooding and in protecting bio-diversity.

According to figures released by the United Nations Environment Program, one hectare of wetland can create an annual production value of US$14,000, much greater than tropical forests or cultivated fields.

Xinjiang has planned several other wetland reserves to curb reduction of its wetland resources. Due to various reasons, the region's wetland has reduced to 1.48 million hectares from former 2.8 million hectares.

China values the protection of its wetlands and increasing awareness of preservation and is working to stop blind land reclamation and serious pollution.

China launched a program to protect 90 percent of its wetlands in 713 special zones in 2003 and the efforts would last for two decades. China currently has about 38 million hectares of major wetlands, including 36 million hectares of natural wetlands, accounting for 10 percent of the world's wetland resources. 

(Xinhua News Agency April 11, 2005)