Silent Rivers: The Struggle to Protect Daegu's Kumho River and Ecological Landscape Conservation Areas
In the heart of Daegu, the Kumho River is famed for its rich fishing grounds, attracting anglers even in chilly weather. However, beneath the sparkling waters lies a delicate ecosystem, home to the national monument otter, designating the area as a strict no-fishing zone.
Despite regulations, illegal fishing persists, posing a direct threat to the survival of the otters inhabiting this pristine environment. The 4.4-kilometer stretch from Paldalgyo to Mutaegyo in Buk-gu, Daegu, is off-limits to fishing to preserve the otters and prevent environmental pollution.
As we stand on the riverbanks, around 10 anglers cast their lines beneath the towering cliffs, indifferent to the prohibition. Trash, including discarded gas canisters and fishing lines, litters the surroundings, a stark contrast to the conservation efforts in place.
Anglers, seemingly unfazed by the ban, rationalize their actions, highlighting the lack of alternative fishing spots during the cold season and a perception of lax enforcement.
Local governments responsible for monitoring and enforcement express their limitations, citing a shortage of manpower. Despite the ban, only five cases of fines for illegal fishing in the Kumho River no-fishing zone have been reported since 2018.
The consequences of inadequate protection are vividly seen in the tragic incident of an otter found dead in Dawonji, Dalseo-gu, in December 2022. The otter had ingested two fishing hooks, underscoring the urgent need for stringent enforcement and conservation measures.
Beyond Daegu, ecological landscape conservation areas face a similar plight. Budget cuts have forced the suspension of monitoring activities in these highly protected zones, such as the Wangpicheon Ecological Landscape Conservation Area in Gyeongbuk Province.
This area, equivalent to the size of Sokcho in Gangwon Province, is renowned for its botanical richness and has been safeguarded by community environmental monitors for two decades. Unfortunately, the suspension of these monitors raises concerns about the area's vulnerability to violations and disasters, such as forest fires.
Similar scenarios unfold in other ecological landscape conservation areas like Donggang in Gangwon Province. Residents, integral to the protection and management of these areas, find themselves excluded due to a loss of means for involvement.
As climate change threatens biodiversity, the need to expand and effectively manage protected areas becomes paramount. Currently, only 17.3% of South Korea's land and 1.8% of its marine areas are designated as protected. The government's biodiversity strategy aims to achieve the international recommendation of 30% protection on land and sea by 2030.
However, gaining the consent and understanding of local residents is crucial for the success of these protection efforts. Implementing measures that encourage community involvement, such as offering ecological schools and sewage purification systems, should be prioritized.
The Ministry of Environment, while witnessing an overall budget increase, faces criticism for decreasing the budget for natural environments. Acknowledging the importance of a citizen environmental monitor system, the ministry pledges to work towards securing a budget for the upcoming year.
The struggle to balance conservation and human activities reflects the delicate dance between progress and preserving our natural heritage, calling for a collective effort to ensure the sustainability of our ecosystems.
FAQ Addition: Q: How can individuals contribute to protecting no-fishing zones and conservation areas? A: Individuals can contribute by respecting no-fishing zones, reporting illegal activities, and supporting initiatives that promote environmental conservation and biodiversity.
Q: What measures can local governments take to enhance enforcement in protected areas? A: Local governments can consider increasing manpower, implementing stricter enforcement measures, and engaging in community outreach to raise awareness about the importance of protected areas.
#RiverConservation, #EcologicalLandscape, #ProtectOurWaters, #BiodiversityChallenge, #CommunityInvolvement
