Yangbei Lake Ecological Restoration And Governance Project Phase I

The project is situated within the Huangtianfan Watershed in the northern region of Fuyang District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, covering approximately 290 hectares of land. Historically, Yangbei Lake was initially formed during the Zhenguan period of the Tang Dynasty. In the 1980s, it was transformed into farmland and fish pond aquaculture, which has been in use to this day, resulting in the current water body being heavily polluted and the water system being singular, with no distinct lake form. The primary aim of this project is to revive the ancient wetland, showcase its historical significance, restore ecological balance, and recreate the shimmering beauty of the historic Yangbei Lake. Guided by the principles of conservation, restoration, and minimal intervention, the design team has created an ecological wetland that integrates cultural exhibition, ecological restoration, scientific research and education, as well as urban leisure activities. The project features an overall layout comprising “One Lake and Seven Gardens”. The lake, known as the ancient Yangbei Lake, while the seven gardens include the Clear Ripple Garden, Lotus Breeze Garden, Reed Marsh Garden, Fish Fun Garden, Blooming Flower Garden, Rice Aroma Garden, and the Single-ridge Flower Garden. This design aims to create a millennia-old wetland landscape that embodies the vision of “Yangbei Lake concealing the riches of Fuchun, returning to simplicity amidst the rice paddies,” showcasing a harmonious blend of nature and culture. Ecological Yangbei Lake – A Natural Wild and Ecological Wetland By diverting water from the Fuchun River to ensure a water supply, the project employs measures such as hydrodynamic simulation calculations, artificial wetlands, submerged plants, riparian wetlands, and the sponge city concept to restore the wetland’s self-circulation and self-purification capabilities. This endeavor aims to create a diverse habitat and environment for aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna, maintaining the ecological balance of the wetland and defending against future environmental degradation. The “living water” and “clean water” are then fed back into the urban river network of Fuyang, increasing the water surface area within the Huangtianfan region from 2% to 5%. This enhancement not only improves and ensures the water security of the northern area of Fuyang City but also increases the city’s flood control and water regulation capacity. The regional water quality has been improved, with the water quality of Yangbei Lake now upgraded from Grade Ⅴ to above Grade Ⅲ standards, with some areas even reaching Grade Ⅱ standards. ▼，Inversion in water Secluded·Yangbei Lake – A Return to the Idyllic Country Life Respecting the current site conditions, minimal intervention methods such as breaking ridges, dredging, and backfilling were employed to create unique lake landscapes. We use integrated prefabricated construction to continue and protect the texture characteristics of the agricultural fields. Native plants like sapium sebiferum, metasequoia, and hackberry were selected to collectively create a rustic and natural ancient wetland landscape. At the same time, bridges, buildings, and landscape facilities were deeply integrated into the overall environment, contributing to a rustic wetland style that fosters harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. The excellent water quality and environment have attracted a large number of wild birds to settle in, including endangered species and nationally protected birds such as the red-crested pochard and black-headed gull. Currently, over 80 species of birds reside in Yangbeihu, making it a true “paradise for fish and birds. ” ▼，Aerial view of the lake ▼，Aerial view of the lake ▼，Birds fluttering in the air ▼，Returning at dusk ▼，Supermodel of the Bird World – the Long Feet Snipe Cultural·Yangbei Lake – A Diverse and Integrated Cultural Stage Restoring the ancient wetland and reviving the main body of Yangbei Lake, we utilize the existing fish ponds to revive the lake landscape that has a history of a thousand years. Building upon the agricultural research base of the Rice Research Institute, a “Rice Culture” theme has been incorporated, adhering to the principle of minimal intervention. Farmlands are preserved, while platforms, boardwalks, and educational experiences are added, serving as the core area for farming experiences. This enhances the farmland landscape and makes the experience more enjoyable. In the Fishery Culture Experience Zone, the existing texture of fish ponds is preserved, and hydrophilicity is enhanced through the addition of platforms, boardwalks, and other facilities. Tens of thousands of fish fry have been released into the entire lake area, effectively improving and optimizing the aquatic biological resource structure. Regular fishing activities are organized, further enhancing the interactivity and experience for visitors. Vibrant·Yangbei Lake – A Leisure Space Full of Vitality and Fun Considering the characteristics of the site and integrating the “One Lake and Seven Gardens” landscape pattern, we aim to create various green recreational spaces with distinct thematic features. A diverse network of slow-moving paths will be established, showcasing various landscapes such as farmland, lakeshores, and wetlands. Relying on the water space, an aquatic sightseeing system will be designed, interweaving a three-dimensional network of water and land-based tourist routes. ▼，Boating in the Misty Waves ▼，Lotus Pond and Lake Scenery Social Significance Yangbei Lake, a legend that was gradually fading into history, has been rediscovered and revitalized with the transformation of the “Two Mountains” theory and the advancement of ecological civilization. The once-legendary lake has been reborn, and the newly constructed Yangbei Lake is now the second provincial-level wetland park in Hangzhou that integrates urban, agricultural, and cultural wetlands. Known as the “Kidney of Fuyang” and “Deputy Xixi Wetland,” it adds momentum to the high-quality urban development and serves as a model for enhancing carbon sequestration capacity and sustainable utilization. It is part of the splendid real-life scene of the modern version of “Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains,” widely promoted by domestic mainstream media and highly praised by the local people. It has successfully been selected as an outstanding case of biodiversity conservation in Zhejiang Province for 2024. com