Citation Detail: Peter Johan Schei, Wang Sung and Xie Yan. 2001. Fifth Annual Report of the BWG/CCICED. in: Conserving China's Biodiversity (II). China Environmental Science Press. Beijing. 78-100p.

FIFTH REPORT OF PHASE TWO
Biodiversity Working Group (BWG) of the
China Council for International Cooperation on
Environment and Development (CCICED)

July 2001 Xining, Qinghai

★1. Introduction★2. Summary of BWG Activities in 2000 and 2001.★3. Work Plan for finalization of ongoing projects and funding★4. Publications of BWG (2000-2001)★5. National Level Recommendations of BWG, 2001★Annex I: Workshop on Biodiversity Conservation in Qinghai Province Recommendations CCICED Biodiversity Working roup★Annex II:Biodiversity and Sustainable Use of Biological Resources on the Alpine Grasslands of China

1. Introduction

During 2000-2001, the Biodiversity Working Group (BWG) of CCICED continued its strong tradition of sectoral workshops with a regional focus on Qinghai Province. In addition, the BWG has been working on producing guidelines for restoring China's degraded environment, publicizing the China Species Information System on the website of <www.chinabiodiversity.com>, development of Endangered Species Red List in China, Upper Yangtze integrated conservation and development, and invasive species studies. The "Workshop on Biodiversity Conservation in Qinghai" was held in Xining from 25-30 June 2001, with arrangements made together with the provincial Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB). The workshop consisted of two parts, field visits and meetings.

2. Summary of BWG Activities in 2000 and 2001.

Following the order of activities presented in the BWG work plan, the following progress was made during the current reporting year.

2.1 Biodiversity Working Group meetings
The BWG held one official meeting during the past year in Xining, Qinghai Province and two workshops on "Promoting the Use of Natural Vegetation to Restore the Degraded Environment of China" in Beijing. The meeting in Qinghai involved site visits to nearby areas of conservation interest, followed by a sectoral meeting on Biodiversity Conservation in Qinghai.

2.2 Targeted sectoral meeting with Qinghai Province
The Biodiversity Working Group of the CCICED held a Workshop on Biodiversity Conservation in Qinghai Province from 25-29 June 2001. Participants (BWG members and invited scientists) were divided into two groups for field visits (northern and southern routes). The North Group saw highland agriculture, alpine meadow, Bird Island Nature Reserve, the Baoku Forestry Area, Heiquan Reservoir, highland vegetable oil base (rapeseed), and the Haibei Alpine Meadow Ecosystem Research Station of the CAS to see monitoring, research and demonstration of sustainable ecosystems (including fencing effects, alpine meadow, studies on global change, pastoral lifestyle and livestock farming). The South Group traveled over several high mountain passes and across extensive grasslands, and saw the Yellow River, low and high altitude agriculture, desert landscapes, highland fencing, pastoralist lifestyle (tents, yak, sheep), desertification and the Longyangxia Dam, which is the first large dam on the Huanghe (Yellow River). Both groups focused discussions on five main topics: 1) Impacts of livestock grazing and sedentarization of pastoralists; 2) Impact of agriculture; 3) Introduction of alien invasive species; 4) Community participation and local capacity building; 5) Ecotourism; and 6) Restoration of vegetation. These trips were extremely valuable for the participants to understand the current environmental and development situation in Qinghai province, thus providing the basis for discussions during the meeting and to assist in making recommendations to the government.
Two days of meetings were then held in Xining and around 90 people including national, international and regional experts and authorities. Major sessions included:

1. Ecosystem diversity conservation
   
2. Natural vegetation restoration
   
3. Biosecurity
   
4. Wildlife protection and utilization
   
5. Cross-cutting issues (e.g., impacts of global change, local community participation)

Overall, the Workshop on Biodiversity Conservation in Qinghai Province proved to be very informative and fruitful for all of the participants, and many key recommendations were well received by provincial authorities. A summary of this meeting, including recommendations made to the Qinghai authorities on grassland restoration, in-situ and ex-situ protection related to biodiversity conservation are included in Appendix I. In addition, the BWG finalised this annual report for CCICED for 2001, and laid out the plans for group activities for the year 2001-2002 (Section 3).

2.3 Website and Online China Species Information System (CSIS)
Extensive updating of the China Species Information System occurred this year, supported by funding from the British Government Environment Project Fund. In addition to intensive data entry, a process to carefully review and check existing data in CSIS was completed by the following experts:

Mammals -- Prof. Wang Sung, Institute of Zoology, CAS and Robert Hoffmann, National Natural History Museum, Smithsonian Institution;
Birds -- Prof. He Fenqi, Institute of Zoology, CAS; and
Reptiles and amphibians -- Prof. Zhao Ermi, Chengdu Institute of Biology, CAS
A website, www.chinabiodiversity.com has been set up in both English and Chinese, with funds from Norwegian Government (NORAD), British Government Environment Project Fund, and cooperated with WWF-China, China Byte and the People's Daily Web. The website includes all BWG annual reports and technical reports as well as information about more than 2500 Chinese mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. This information comes from the China Species Information System (CSIS), which covers over 8900 vertebrate species and subspecies. Online CSIS includes taxonomy, threat category, distribution, habitat, threats, protection measure and recommendations for protection. In addition to species information, it also provides information for nearly 1,000 nature reserves, references and an expert database.

2.4 Invasive Species Study
After BWG's preliminary research project on invasive species in China last year, BWG has carried out intensive studies including 1) "Study on impact of alien species to fish biodiversity in aquatic area in Yunnan Province", 2) "Survey of alien invasive species in Fujian Province", 3) "Review on mechanism of spreading and control measure of invasive species in China", 4) "Development of Invasive Plants List in China" and 5) "Development of China Alien Species Information System". A booklet for public awareness of "Alien Invasive Species in China" is being written, that would include general information on invasive species, and detailed descriptions of about 50 of the most dangerous invasive species in China.

2.5 Biodiversity and Sustainable Use of Biological Resources on the Alpine Grasslands of China Project
During the past year the BWG continued its activities on the high alpine grasslands of Qinghai province. This work took two forms, detailed in Appendix II. The first was an experimental analysis of the role of plateau pikas as a keystone species for biodiversity on the alpine grasslands. The second was a multipronged approach working at the local level in concert with the Upper Yangtze Organization and Plateau Perspectives on the Upper Yangtze Project. Major accomplishments were made in the area of environmental education, wildlife monitoring, and local capacity building. This work is ongoing, building on past successes, with the goal of engaging local pastoralists in a wide diversity of biodiversity conservation activities. BWG has, in turn, facilitated work in the area of Flora and Fauna International, who are engaged in a complementary project in the area.

2.6 Guidelines for Restoration of China's degraded environment
BWG began preparation of guidelines for restoring China's degraded environment with funds from NORAD and British Governmental Environment Fund. Two workshops were held in Beijing to draft sections of the guide. It is expected that a complete English version will be finished by the end of September in time for the meeting of the Council. 5000 Chinese copies will be published and distributed to counties along main rivers in China.

2.7 Field Guide to the Birds of China
The Field Guide to the Birds of China was published in July 2000. 5000 copies were produced in total and now except several hundreds copies to be sent to China's reserves for free, all copies have been sold out or send out for free. The book has received very favorable reviews from various people, and additional books have been requested. Now the BWG is considering publishing a second version at reduced prices to meet this demand.

2.8 Field Guide to the Mammals of China
BWG has initiated work that will lead to publication of two books on the mammals of China. The first will be an exhaustive scientific synopsis, and the second a popular field guide. Both books take as their starting points the unpublished manuscript written by Dr. Wang Sung, BWG Co-chair and some other taxonomists in China. Funds to translate the manuscript from Chinese to English were obtained, and the first draft English version was completed in early 2001. Editing of this draft has been completed and will serve as a template for the final product.

At the same time, other essential elements of the project are proceeding.

A synonomy of all scientific names ever applied to Chinese mammals has been compiled; dichotomous identification keys to all species are being written; and a definitive checklist of species decided upon. The total number of species occurring in China appears to be over 500. Illustrative materials including: 1) species distribution maps; 2) illustrations of individual species (and a preliminary list of species to be illustrated has been agreed); and 3) illustrations of skulls and other anatomical features are being prepared.

Princeton University Press, an experienced publisher of scientific books and international field guides, is committed to publishing both books, and we expect to sign contracts with them in the near future. Finally, after publication of the English-language editions, we will seek international funding for publication of a Chinese-language edition of the field guide to facilitate the identification of China's biodiversity by Chinese investigators.

2.9 Endangered Species Red Listing in China
After the first Workshop on Red Listing of Endangered Species in China in Dujiangyan, Sichuan last year, experts for different taxon groups have started to evaluate the endangered categories of Chinese flora and fauna following the IUCN Red List Criteria. They encountered various problems during the process. The second workshop was held during 2-4 July in Beijing. The participants agreed to a draft workplan of activities with a goal of a revised Red List to be completed by the end of 2002.

2.10 Biodiversity Planning Support Program for Northeast and East Central Asia region
BWG is the focal point of the Biodiversity Planning Support Programme on Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan for North and Central Asia sponsored by UNDP/UNEP/GEF. The project involves 9 countries (Afghanistan, China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan) in Northeast and East Central Asia. BPSP has contributed to the establishment of a regional list server and a web-site where specialised information on biodiversity planning and conservation are now being shared regularly.

Two workshops on NBSAPs in the region were held in April 2000, and June 2001 in Beijing. Six issues of the Newsletter of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans for Northeast and East Central Asia, and an information kit and a training material package of NBSAPs were produced and distributed to related NBSAP key persons in these 9 countries, especially China.

2.11 Guidebook of Biodiversity Principles for Developers and Planners
This booklet presents a multitude of ways in which careless development can cause great damage to biodiversity. We present two pictures or scenarios; the picture on the left represents careless development, the picture on the right represents the recommended alternative. The guidelines are arranged in a number of sections covering the major ecosystems of the country. In most cases the improvements carry no extra cost -- in some cases they are cheaper -- but in either case they will make a big difference to the local quality of life and quality of the environment. Over seventy pieces of texts and pairs of pictures will soon be ready, and it is expected that the booklet will be published within this year.

2.12 BWG article collections for the Phase Two (1997-2001)
The collections will be published in Chinese and English before the upcoming China Council Meeting in October 2001. All annual reports of BWG generated during the second phase of CCICED will be included, as will all technical reports, which cover some key issues related to biodiversity conservation in China, such as survey of the wild animal trade, Biosafety and invasive species. Various guidelines prepared by BWG, will be also be included.

3. Work Plan for finalization of ongoing projects and funding

Although all working groups under CCICED will be changed into task forces at the conclusion of the upcoming meeting of the CCICED, there are several funded activities of BWG that need to be completed including: (As the change of the third phase of CCICED is unknown we cannot include any activities that aren't securely funded)

Activity	Funded by:
CSIS - Development and data updating	NORAD Conservation International
Red Listing in China Three regional workshops and completion of updated China Red List	NORAD Conservation International
Invasive species Booklet on Invasive Species in China	NORAD + others to be identified
Field Guide to the Mammals of China; Synopsis of Chinese Mammals	NORAD Princeton University Press
Alpine Grassland Demonstration Project	NORAD Kadooria Charitable Foundation Perspective Plateau
Restoring China's degraded environment Publication and distribution of booklet	British Governmental Environment Fund NORAD
Sichuan Dujiangyan Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan	UNF FFI (to be confirmed)

BWG activities have also received assistance from CCICED, SEPA, SFA, WWF and IUCN. We sincerely appreciate the assistance of these sources of support, and we are especially thankful to the Norwegian Government for their major grant.

4. Publications of BWG (2000-2001)

1. Foggin, J. Marc and A. T. Smith. 2000. Rangeland utilization and biodiversity on the alpine grasslands of Qinghai Province, People's Republic of China - The use of regional and county-level datasets. Pp. 120-130 in: Tibet's biodiversity: Conservation and management. Wu Ning, D. Miller, Lu Zhi and J. Springer, editors. China Forestry Publishing House, Beijing.
   
2. Smith, A. T. and J. M. Foggin. 2000. The plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae): A keystone species for biodiversity on the Tibetan plateau. Pp. 387-396 in: Formation and evolution, environmental changes and sustainable development on the Tibetan plateau. Du Zheng, editor. Academy Press, Beijing.
   
3. Smith, A. T. and J. M. Foggin. 2000. The plateau pika is a keystone species for biodiversity on the Tibetan plateau. Pp. 131-140 in: Tibet's biodiversity: Conservation and management. Wu Ning, D. Miller, Lu Zhi and J. Springer, editors. China Forestry Publishing House, Beijing.
   
4. Wang, S. (ed.) et al. IUCN Chinese Newsletter (issue 13) (in Chinese)
   
5. XIE Yan, LI Zhenyu, William P. Gregg, LI Dianmo. 2000. Invasive Species in China -- An Overview. Biodiversity and Conservation 10(8): pp.1317-1341.
   
6. XIE Yan, WANG Sung, Newsletter of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans for Northeast and East Central Asia (1-6 issues)
   
7. YANG Junxing, Study on impact of alien fish to local fish in Yunnan
   
8. DING Jianqing, XIE Yan, Invasion mechanism and control strategies of alien invasive species in China
   
9. WANG Sung, WANG Xianpu, XIE Yan, JIN Jianming, CHEN Changdu, WANG Zongyi, QING Jianhua. Developing and Implementing National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan: Lessons from China
   
10. Jeffery McNeely, Human Dimensions of Invasive Alien Species: How Global Perspectives are relevant to China
    
11. Guidebook of Biodiversity Principles for Developers and Planners (to be published)
    
12. Restoring China's Degraded Environment - The Role of Natural Vegetation (to be published)

5. National Level Recommendations of BWG, 2001

5.1 Pay sufficient attention to biodiversity and ecosystem value and functioning, incorporate them into any development policies and planning, and enhance coordination and cooperation between various government sectors.
Establish a higher-level coordinating mechanism (such as a committee) for cooperation between various sectors to increase efficiency and to avoid conflicting goals and actions in nature management issues focusing on biodiversity and ecosystem value and functioning as well as to maximize the benefit from national investment and foreign capital.

Establish guidelines and criteria for ensuring biodiversity conservation and ecosystem functions in the various types of ecological construction as soon as possible. The very broad concept of ecological construction creates uncertainty as to how it should be implemented, and clarification of the various types of construction is urgently needed.

Analyze the implementation of regulations for protected areas. The effectiveness of China's protected area network in terms of the protection afforded to biodiversity and ecosystem functioning is highly deficient due to the lack of adequate implementation. This should be corrected immediately if China is to remain one of the 12 megadiversity countries in the world.

Undertake a national millennium assessment of the status and functioning of China's ecosystems, as part of the global Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA), which is now underway. Develop a research program on the functional values of biodiversity in ecosystems, in cooperation with international programs such as IGBP and Diversitas.

5.2 Develop an integrated strategy and action plan for biodiversity and ecosystem functioning for the Great Western Development (GWD).
Carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment, considering especially biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, before initiating any major development project in the GWD.
Establish an environmental monitoring program, including selected biodiversity parameters, as part of the GWD. Besides technical and scientific programs, this should serve the purpose of raising environmental awareness.

5.3 Give much stronger emphasis to the use of natural vegetation (native species) for restoration and rehabilitation of China's ecosystems. Special guidelines and recommendations should be developed for forest, grassland and wetland rehabilitation and restoration
5.4 Establish a national biosecurity program to include both the Invasive Alien Species (IAS) issue and biosafety related to biotechnology on the basis of a comprehensive evaluation of present status. Ratify the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety as soon as possible and establish the necessary national institutions and regulations.
5.5 Develop a new set of economic incentives for biodiversity conservation and maintenance eestablishment of ecosystem services.
Analyse subsidies which have negative effects on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning and take remedial action.
Establish new economic compensation mechanisms for ecosystem services. (This is to ensure positive incentives for protection of ecosystem services in areas where the demand for the services is from the public outside of the area.)
In the national effort for the revision of the tax system, consider and develop the issue of "green taxes".
5.6 Develop a comprehensive education and public awareness-raising program for biodiversity and ecosystem functioning
A cooperative effort with the education sector should be carried out to train teachers and to include information on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in curricular at various levels.
A training program for taking biodiversity concerns into consideration should be developed for the various economic sectors.
A general information campaign, involving TV and other media, should be established.
A set of popularized information material for biodiversity should be developed, for example, field guides, training material, newsletters, etc
5.7 Develop a biodiversity policy advisory team to CCICED
Necessity:
The relationship between development and biodiversity remains a central concern of the Government of China. The complexity of this issue might require a small international body that can provide policy-relevant advice on a long-term basis. The Convention on Biological Diversity is the main international agreement on this topic, but many other conventions and international programmes also require input on biodiversity management, research and policies including the Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Framework Convention to Combat Desertification.
The proposed Biodiversity Policy Advisory Team (BPAT) could provide this advice and input. BPAT, drawing on the experience and expertise of its members, would also call to the attention of the Government any new challenges on biodiversity that need to be addressed as China's economic development proceeds.

BPAT would fulfill the following roles:
Work closely with SEPA to ensure that the most up-to-date perspectives on global biodiversity policy are available to the Government of China
Feed priority biodiversity concerns and issues into CCICED through close association to several serving Council members and can provide expertise to CCICED Task Forces as needed
Identify research priorities to ensure that the Chinese Academy of Sciences (and other research institutions) continues to conduct the most relevant research on biodiversity-related topics, ranging from biosecurity issues to ecological restoration
Bring an international perspective to national and provincial level biodiversity issues and engage in discussions with provincial officials to ensure that its advice is practical and relevant at all levels
Priority Tasks for the BPAT include:
Investigating:
the impact of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on biodiversity (under the Cartegena Protocol)
the economic impact of invasive alien species of plants, animals, and micro-organisms (article 8h of the CBD)
the impact of various carbon sequestration efforts on biodiversity (CBD and FCCC)
how biodiversity can help combat desertification and provide water to China's cities (CBD and FCCD)
Ensuring the effective design and management of a representative system of protected areas (CBD, Article 8a,b)
Maintaining a biodiversity database (already developed under the CCICED Biodiversity Working Group) as a core resource of publicly available biodiversity information for China
Feasibility:
The focus of BPAT on scientific, technical and policy-relevant implementation needs of CBD and other biodiversity-related agreements will make its work relevant to many governments that prioritise support for implementation of international agreements including Canada, the Netherlands, Germany, Norway, Japan, the United Kingdom and the USA.
This focus is also important for international organisations such as ADB, the World Bank, UNDP, UNESCO, UNEP, ESCAP and the GEF as well as many conservation NGOs. The BPAT will also help to co-ordinate the work of these various international agencies interested in supporting China's activities that related to biodiversity.
Composition:
The BPAT should consist of a small core of about 8 high level Chinese experts from SEPA, CAS and relevant ministries and 8 international experts from Europe, North America and Japan. Additional expertise should be provided to address specific issues that may arise. A small secretariat should be established to support the work of the BPAT. The permanent core group will provide continuity to the BPAT and establish and maintain working relationships with the various ministries and international organisations.
Annex I:

Workshop on Biodiversity Conservation in Qinghai Province
Recommendations
CCICED Biodiversity Working Group
25-29 June 2001

The Biodiversity Working Group of the CCICED held a Workshop on Biodiversity Conservation in Qinghai Province from 24-30 June 2001. Participants were divided into two groups and separately visited areas around Xining. During these field trips, participants visited some representative ecosystems and managed areas of Qinghai including examples of highland agriculture and pastoralism, Qinghai Lake Nature Reserve, Baoku Forestry Area and Reserve, and Haibei Grassland Ecosystem Research Station. Based on observations in these field trips discussions held during the workshop, the following recommendations are made:

1 General Recommendations

A provincial biodiversity strategy and action plan (PBSAP) for Qinghai
The achievement of the national objectives and obligations of the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, and the sharing of benefits from that use, is a complex and difficult task. All the economic and other sectors at the various administrative levels need to be involved. Education, awareness raising and creation of ownership among all the stakeholders are necessary. The national BSAP has set out the goals and framework for action, but the situation for implementation is different in all provinces. Therefore, there is a need to develop a provincial BSAP to outline how Qinghai is to contribute to this national task. Monitoring of progress in implementation has to be included in this PBSAP. However, the development of this plan must not delay urgent tasks in biodiversity conservation. Capacity building among relevant authorities is of the utmost priority.

A co-ordinating mechanism for work on biodiversity issues at the provincial level
Among the various bodies at the provincial level (also at the county and prefecture level in many areas), there is a serious lack of co-operation and co-ordination of policies, plans and actions relating to nature management and biodiversity conservation. To avoid conflicting policies and actions and to rationalise this work, which could save a lot of money and time, a co-ordinating mechanism is needed. This body could also be responsible for steering the work of development and implementation of the PBSAP.

A set of plans, practical tools and information materials for public education and awareness-raising on biodiversity conservation
The degradation of nature and loss of biodiversity is often caused by the lack of knowledge of the ecological basis for our survival. This was stressed many times in the visit to Qinghai. Decision-makers and the public in general (with a special emphasis on schoolchildren) must therefore be the target for an urgent initiative to rectify the situation. The school curricula should be changed, teachers educated to do the task, and media involved to spread the information.
Ensure that economic incentives promote sustainable use of natural resources
Some government polices may be promoting over-exploitation of natural resources. Tax polices, subsidies, road-building projects, etc., are often penning new areas against poachers, promoting excess populations of sheep, and destroying biodiversity. Instead, economic incentives should be designed to tax systems that encourage sustainable level of road systems that level some areas remote, and to develop a water pricing system that pays pastoralists for conserving watersheds, etc. As an example, herders should be taxed according to head of livestock rather than land area, reducing the incentive to over-graze land.

2. Conservation of Alpine Grassland Ecosystems

Improve Plateau Biodiversity management:
Halt and reverse the conversion of natural pasture to agriculture.
Many fields that were tilled and planted with crops around 10 years ago have already been either abandoned or replanted with grass as part of the national grassland restoration program of the Great Western Development Plan. This restoration program focuses primarily on Yushu, Guoluo and Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures, all in southern Qinghai province. Many of the plant species used are introduced from elsewhere in China and overseas. It is not clear who (locally) will benefit most from the restored land and /or the remaining fields.

Plateau pikas should be reintroduced to previously poisoned areas to restore the health of the alpine grassland ecosystem
The plateau pika has been considered a pest species because it putatively competes with native livestock for forage and may contribute to rangeland degradation. As a result the plateau pika has been poisoned across vast areas of the high alpine meadows of the plateau. One recent review stated that "cumulatively, more than 208,000 km2 … was treated with rodenticides…" These massive poisoning programs are ongoing. On our field trips very few pikas were seen. Pikas have even been poisoned at the Haibei Alpine Meadow Ecosystem Research Station (CAS), one of the few places where comprehensive research could be conducted on the ecological role of this species. The pika population at Bird Island Nature Reserve has disappeared -- most likely the result of poisoning. Many speakers at the workshop confirmed that the pika is considered a pest and is controlled throughout the province.

However, the BWG considers the pika to be a keystone species for biodiversity and proper ecosystem functioning on the plateau. Healthy populations of plateau pikas are an indicator of the health of this important ecosystem. It is because of the following factors: 1). The plateau pika makes burrows that are utilized by native species of birds and lizards. For example, Hume's groundpecker (Pseudopodoces humilis) and snowfinches (Montifringilla spp. and Pyrgilauda spp.); 2). The plateau pika serves as the principal prey for nearly all the plateau's avian and mammalian predators. 3). The burrowing activity of plateau pikas creates microhabitats result in increased plant species richness. 4). The burrowing activity of pikas presents the opportunity for enhanced nutrient cycling in the thick alpine sod soil, and 5). Plateau pikas make a network of deep underground burrows, and these can serve to percolate rainfall to lower soil profiles. In this way, pikas contribute to the "sponge" effect of the soil.

BWG knows of no definitive studies that have shown plateau pikas to be a true pest. Studies used to justify the role of plateau pikas as a pest species fall into two categories. The first indicates that pikas utilize more vegetation when they are found at high densities, and the forage that they eat is at the expense of livestock. This finding is not surprising, as it is like more food being eaten at a big versus small banquet. The question is why pikas are sometimes found at very high densities. Chinese ecological literature is very clear on this matter: pikas are found at high densities where the grasslands have been overgrazed. Thus, the occurrence of high populations of pikas may be symptomatic of rangeland degradation, not the cause. Also, Chinese literature indicates that at low densities pikas do not compete with livestock; competition between livestock and pikas occurs only when the land is overstocked with livestock. Thus, the main solution to rangeland degradation appears to be simple -- stocking rates should be reduced. If this program is carried out successfully, pika populations will be found at lower densities, while maintaining their keystone species function, and sufficient herbage will be available for animal husbandry. This is a win-win situation. Biodiversity is enhanced and maintained, livestock will attain high condition, and the expense and effort of pika control efforts will be avoided.
Second, pikas are thought to be the cause of "Black sand" areas. But, there are no convincing data to indicate that these areas have been formed because of the activity of pikas. Pikas are seen in black sand areas eating away at the edges, but this observation occurs only after the black sand areas have been formed. The origin of black sand areas remains a big question, and one worthy of an extensive research effort.

In summary, all available evidence shows that plateau pikas are a keystone species for biodiversity and ecosystem function on the plateau and not a pest species. Our recommendations highlight the ecological importance of this species in the ecosystem and the need to have healthy pika populations for the Qinghai meadow ecosystem.

BWG can offer one other important observation concerning the economic importance of plateau pikas. This species is active during the day, easily observed, and very social - they engage in a suite of very interesting behaviors and vocalizations. In Japan and the United States, other pika species (O. hyperborea, O. princeps, respectively), are an important component of ecotourism. These rock-dwelling pikas are solitary and less interesting behaviorally than the plateau pika. Thus, the plateau pika could easily be a centerpiece for nature ecotourism in Qinghai, and this opportunity is being lost with all the poisoning efforts targeting pikas.

More sustainable pastoral practices must be identified and applied
The conflict between development and conservation is more evident in the highland. Though the road system and living conditions of local people have been improved very much in the past decade, the degradation of the local ecosystem has been serious. Land degradation was obvious throughout most of the field trip, mostly the result of overgrazing and former conversion of grassland to cropland. It also was noted that in several instances, livestock herders have been marginalized from the best (former) grazing land as new farmland has been developed over the past several decades. Therefore, there is now increased grazing pressure on increasingly smaller areas of natural grassland. Some local herders attributed changes in the abundance of wildlife and in grassland conditions to these relatively recent farming ventures. Furthermore, highland agriculture (mostly rapeseed) sometimes has been developed by attracting non-local immigrants from eastern China, with little or no direct benefit to local herders who now also have reduced grazing land. One individual herder noted a specific decrease in sheep carcass weights of over 50 percent (from 50 to 20 kg) during the past few decades.

Given that the objective of development is to improve the standard of living in a sustainable way, the needs and desires of Qinghai's rural populations are of critical importance. Pastoralists have lived on the grasslands for hundreds of years and have developed means of managing herds in a sustainable manner, but various factors (population growth, etc.) are leading to unsustainable use of the grassland. The following polices should be considered:

Promote the concept of "dynamic carrying capacity" The government should promote livestock mobility as a means of avoiding over-grazing. The need for seasonal mobility and flexibility should also be explored in greater detail (as opposed to the sedentarization and land use intensification currently being promoted by government bureaus). Arid grasslands will not be able to sustain year-round grazing in the long-term to the detriment of both local herders and the province/nation as a whole.

Promote economic diversification, as a means of reducing risk and population pressure on grasslands. This would include encouraging more "pastoral friendly" policies that facilitate a trend towards market-oriented enterprises. Current efforts to intensify pastoralism (whether by relocating pastoralists into villages or by growing more winter fodder and hence decreasing herd mobility) can have significant detrimental effects on the grassland because of increased year-round livestock grazing in the vicinity of fixed places of residence. This overgrazing will decrease the sustainability of resource use.

Study the ecological impact of the fencing of pastures. Wild ungulates' movements are limited by physical barriers. Scale is important: fences for household winter fodder production are likely to have a lesser negative impact than regional fences. The analysis of fencing should consider its effects on rangeland conditions and on the socio-economic status of local households, using both short- and long-term cost-benefit analyses.

Avoid settling land that is currently unoccupied. Such land it is unlikely to be sustainable for grazing by domestic livestock.
Resource management by several households (10-20 families at a time), as opposed to the individual "household responsibility system", should be considered for grassland areas. Larger-scale resource management units may be more appropriate for climatically unpredictable arid grassland ecosystems. Collaborative management could use community-based means of reducing risk to individual pastoralists, and reducing stocking density.
Improve Nature Reserve Management
The management of the Qinghai Lake Nature Reserve is poor. There are few facilities or staff available for the purpose of educating the public or raising public awareness. There is a plan to plant non-native tree species along the road, which will destroy the unique landscape and may cause a destructive effect on the local flora. The management of Baoku Forestry Area and Reserve also needs to be improved. There is an opportunity to plant conifer trees artificially to promote recovery the natural vegetation of the area.

Protected areas are important elements of provincial land-use plans. The protected area system makes numerous contributions to the ecological functioning of the natural resources of the province, and to conserving in situ biodiversity, including species protected under Chinese laws. The following polices are recommended

The system of nature reserves within Qinghai should represent the overall distribution of biodiversity and natural resources within the province. Nature reserves should conserve all native species, regardless of taxonomic identity and ecological role; for example, native insects and small birds should receive protection and support as more glamorous species such as gazelles and cranes. The reserve system should also ensure that adequate populations of all threatened species are contained within protected areas. Appropriate and urgent action is required for Przewalski's gazelle, which has been almost eliminated and currently occurs only in Qinghai in the world.

Emphasise effectiveness rather than size in establishment of protected areas. The establishment of nature reserves should be based on the quality of the area's biological resources and the ability of reserve officials to effectively manage the reserve.

Each reserve should be managed with a prevailing philosophy for nature conservation. This would include ensuring that eco-tourism does not damage ecosystems. If a nature reserve is developed as an eco-tourism site, amenities to facilitate eco-tourism should not compromise the area's biological resources, and amenities should be planned to complement the area's natural resources and not interfere with them

Ban mining in protected areas. Miners are known to deplete wildlife populations and disrupt natural ecosystems.
Ensure that adequate funding for protected areas is provided under the Great Western Development Programme
Prevent the spread of invasive species into nature reserves. Under no circumstances should alien species be introduced or allowed to propagate or establish in nature reserves.

3. Conservation of Wetland and Aquatic Habitats

Wetland areas on the plateau should receive special attention for biodiversity conservation because of their unique function
Wetland areas hold a disproportionate number of endemic and little-known species, thus are worthy of preservation. Additionally, in Qinghai province these areas represent key storage areas for water in the drainage of the three great rivers.

Preserve basal flow in all rivers
A top priority in rehabilitating Yellow River hydrology is the restoration of natural vegetation in the upper catchments and the protection of remaining natural grassland. Dams destroy river continuity, and negative impacts should be mitigated, for example through application of fish ladders.

Increased efforts should be made to conserve the endemic fish fauna in Qinghai province.
BWG were alarmed that the once abundant fish in Qinghai lake now appear to be threatened by over-exploitation and declining lake levels, necessitating a ban on most fishing activity in the lake. The fish fauna in the lake include an entire family of fishes, Schizothoracidae, that are found nowhere else in the world.

A holistic approach should be taken for the management of water resources, including the potential for healthy alpine grasslands to serve as a sponge -- holding water and releasing it slowly, thus reducing the threat of erosion downstream in the three great rivers area

There is a healthy interaction, often overlooked, between the terrestrial and aquatic components of ecosystems. Terrestrial systems have the potential to hold and release water slowly, but this function on the alpine grasslands can only be realized with healthy natural sod soils. Areas where the sod layer has been plowed or removed are prone to rapid runoff and increased erosion potential -- which compounds problems further downstream in each of the great rivers.

4. Natural Vegetation Restoration and Hydrology Protection

4.1 Conserving and restoring natural vegetation
Halt and reverse the conversion of natural pasture to agriculture
Land degradation was obvious throughout most of the trip, mostly the result of overgrazing, but also the conversion of former grassland to cropland. Some local herders attributed changes in the abundance of wildlife and in grassland conditions to these relatively recent farming ventures. Furthermore, highland agriculture (mostly rape seed) sometimes has been developed by attracting non-local immigrants from eastern China, with little or no direct benefit to local herders who now also have reduced grazing land. One individual herder noted a specific decrease in sheep carcass weights of over 50 percent (from 50 to 20 kg) during the past few decades. Some intensification of animal husbandry was also noted, particularly with regard to fodder production for winter feed.

Clarify policy directives by refining the usage of the terms "Ecological Construction" and "Ecological Restoration"
The first priority in the Great Western Development strategy is stated as "ecological construction" and "ecological protection". The group discussed the definition of the terms "ecological construction" and "ecological restoration". Most participants felt that these concepts and the relationship between them are unclear. They felt that restoration was a more appropriate term for returning degraded ecosystems to a more natural state. The use of the term "construction" reflects a widespread assumption that ecosystems are simple enough to be engineered; this is generally not the case. The commonly-held conception of ecological construction seem to encompass several different objectives: 1) Conversion of natural land into agricultural land; 2) Restoring particular environmental services (such as soil or water conservation or carbon sequestration); 3) Restoring biodiversity and ecological functioning (such as energy flow, seed dispersal and pollination) to make them as close to natural ecosystems; and 4) Protecting existing biodiversity and full ecosystem functioning. The term is too broad a concept to apply one single set of criteria and guidelines. It is necessary to sub-divide it into several categories and develop special criteria and guidelines for achieving each of different objectives.

Follow natural succession to restore vegetation, using only native species.
The general principle should be that if natural processes will enable ecosystem restoration, they should be allowed to do so; human assistance should target those processes or attributes (such as seed dispersal, shading etc.) which are absent or too slow to meet restoration objectives.

Qinghai has introduced many exotic species. Qinghai representatives noted that in trying to restore degraded grassland using exotic species, short-term success had been followed by slower growth later. Experience suggests that exotic species will either fail, due to a lack of adaptation to local conditions, or will thrive and cause damage to natural ecosystems. Native species have adapted to the full range of local conditions over hundreds of thousands of years. The combination of species in an ecosystem has a delicate inter-relationship of resource utilisation. Any exotic species which can survive in local conditions are likely to disrupt this, killing or outcompeting native species, causing the loss of Qinghai's unique biodiversity resources, and economic impacts due to the loss of ecotourism and environmental services.

Recreate the original, natural vegetation functions
In the light of ecological functions (e.g. soil water conservation) of natural vegetation, programmes to restore degraded landscape/terrestrial habitats (e.g. returning farmland to forests/grassland), should use native species of trees, shrubs, grasses and other herbs to recreate the original, natural vegetation formations (i.e. forests, shrublands, grasslands) as far as possible. These vegetation formations, and the individual plant species they comprise, are the product of interaction and evolution between these plant species, other living organisms (including animals, fungi and bacteria) and the physical environment over vast periods of time. Any change to the components of the system would alter, and very often impair, the functioning of the original system.

If the purpose of restoring vegetation cover in degraded areas is for environmental services, (e.g. soil water conservation and hence flood control in the national drive to "return farmland to forests/grassland"), the use of original native species of the right mix must be emphasized as far as possible. Hence for instance, "returning" farmland (e.g. cornfields) on slopes with a gradient of 25-35O in Sichuan Province to plantations of Gingko or Tangerines does not make much of an improvement in environmental services (i.e. water conservation) over cornfields as compared with the effect that would have been provided by the original, species rich sub-tropical forests. It is the original sub-tropical forest with mixed native species that should be restored. Similarly, in the upland area of Qinghai Province, there are no scientific grounds to plant trees on degraded grasslands where trees had never been part of the natural landscape since the last ice age. In such a case, the use of a good mix of native grasses, herbs and shrubs where applicable to recreate what had been there before the destruction is necessary to correct over exploitation by human beings over the recent past. If necessary, native plant nurseries should be established to support vegetation restoration. This could be a source of employment. Local communities should be involved in all stages of vegetation restoration.

Conduct the research necessary to permit the promotion of native species in restoration
There is evidence that most institutes and agencies involved in research of grass seeds are mainly studying or testing imported alien species from the USA and European countries. The main reason is that studies on alien species usually attract more funds from international and national agencies. There is an extreme lack of funding for studying local species.
The use of alien plant species may be considered only after both extensive and intensive trials on native individuals have been tried without success. In such cases, only non-invasive aliens could be considered and the whole process must be under close monitoring. Also this must be a transient measure and the introduced plants must be replaced gradually by native species over reasonable short period of time so that the original natural vegetation formation with good mix of native species will be established.

Such a practice should be implemented throughout the whole country from Heilongjiang to Hainan, and from Xizang to Shandong.

4.2 Balance short-term and long-term benefits, and local and national perspectives
Current Government priorities appear to emphasise short-term development, without due consideration of either longer-term sustainability or the essential supply of water to downstream provinces. Current priorities also fail to take sufficient notice of Qinghai's importance in providing water to downstream provinces. This is partly because Qinghai's role as a water provider is not properly rewarded.

4.3 Avoid monoculture of either exotic or local species
Qinghai agricultural researchers continue to give priority to experimenting with monocultures of exotic or local species from various countries. This is unfortunate, as single-species systems fail to provide the ecological functions such as water and soil nutrient conservation; they will exhaust the soil's capacity for plant growth. Monocultures are also highly susceptible to fire, disease and pest attack, and lead to biodiversity loss. Researchers are developing a system to relieve winter grazing pressure by use of oat or oat/legume plots to produce hay for livestock; this is said to be up to 20 times as productive as grassland pasture. This system should not be further developed unless strictly tied to a compensation system that frees, for example, 20 hectares of pasture for every hectare of intensive agriculture.

5 Wildlife utilization
The widespread, unsustainable collection of caterpillar fungus (Cordyceps sinensis; Chinese, chongcao) was also observed in several locations.

5.1 Control and management of natural resource-based businesses should be improved
Nature provides numerous goods of economic importance, but many are being harvested at unsustainable levels. Control and management of natural resource-based business development should be improved to ensure the long-term protection (sustainable use) of plants and animals with medicinal values. Furthermore, the medicinal value of wildlife species should be investigated scientifically, and if possible, alternatives identified for species threatened by this use.

The economic value of wildlife is a reason to protect species for long-term sustainable use. Economic valuation can thus serve as a tool for conservation.

To achieve the above, specific direct linkages between conservation and development must also be developed, particularly with profits shared equitably and sustainably with local resource users.

The collection of wild plants, such as the caterpillar fungus (Cordyceps sinensis; Chinese chongcao), can be very detrimental to grassland ecosystems through the physical presence of large numbers of plant collectors (disturbing wildlife) and by disturbing the land by digging. More control and management of plant collection is therefore needed.

In addition, the existing trend of large-scaled exploiting wild species of flora and fauna for Tibetan traditional medicine would cause further declining of the natural resources of Qinghai-Tibetan plateau. Efficient measures must be taken for its management and monitoring.

The following polices will enable the resources use to be sustainable:
Immediately ban all trade in Chiru (Tibetan antelope) products, as an emergency measure toprevent their extinction,
Establish appropriate quotas on each species of medicinal plants and animals, based on survey & monitoring
Assess distribution and consumption levels of wild plants and animals for medicinal use

5.2 Ban hunting of all threatened species
Because populations of virtually all-potential game species in Qinghai have been reduced to a critical low level, all hunting should be banned for a period of ten years and monitoring of those populations in response to this management change should be undertaken. This would enable many populations to recover to a level that may support a sustainable harvest. Any such harvest should be based on studies of the relevant wildlife populations.

Any plan to attract foreign hunters of trophy animals should be postponed until the wildlife populations can support such hunting.

6. Other biodiversity issues & cross-sectoral cooperation
6.1 Climate change

The climate of Qinghai Province has undergone remarkable changes in temperature (annual increase of 2oC) and rainfall (seasonal decrease of 3-10%) that has resulted in a much drier climate and shrinking wetland and river systems. It is expected that this trend will only be accelerated in the future.

Studies conducted by the Northwest Plateau Institute of Biology have demonstrated the important role of undegraded alpine meadow (Kobresia humilis) as a carbon sink as well as providing underground biomass to stabilise the soil bed. However, with increasing temperatures, biomass will be decreased and the carbon sink and ground stabilising effects will both be decreased as well. As a result, integrity of this fragile ecosystem will fail resulting in desertification and significant loss of biodiversity.

1. Encourage the Governments of China and Qinghai to adopt whatever measures are necessary to mitigate the effects of climate change and to promote adoption and implementation of the Kyoto protocol.
   
2. Encourage efforts to restore grassland ecosystems with biodiversity friendly ways and, thereby, their role in mitigating climate change

6.2 Biodiversity conservation research priorities in Qinghai
The three current biodiversity conservation research priorities in Qinghai Province are:
monitoring the impact of the Golmud/Lhasa railroad. Although some mitigation efforts have been put in place (e.g. 'bridges' for migrating wildlife), the true nature and extent of the impact of this construction on biodiversity is unknown.
protecting the Qinghai Lake wetland system. Climate change effects have resulted in significant decrease in the water level (3 meters in the last 50 years). Pollution, secondary to industries located adjacent to the wetland, also presents an important threat to biodiversity. Research plans include i) examination of animal husbandry and ecotourism as possible, less damaging options for land use in the area and ii) developing a better baseline understanding of the fish populations living in the lake.

protecting the biodiversity of the headwaters of the Changjiang and Huanghe. In this area, human/wildlife conflict is a major problem and has led to habitat degradation in the past. Investigation of replanting/restoration techniques as well as improved use of existing meadows is needed.
In addition to the above topics we also suggest investigation of
effects of increased salinisation, alien species and other threats on native fish (including the endemic Gymnocypris spp.) and other species of Qinghai lake
salinisation of agricultural land
effect of grassland mammals and invertebrates on the sponge effectLong-term monitoring of the major grassland and forest types including productivity, species composition, carbon sequestration, etc.
incorporate research findings into the policies for maintaining and restoring the grassland ecosystem and for the management of the plateau grassland ecosystem

6.3 Local Communities and Biodiversity Conservation
The important role that local communities can play in effective biodiversity conservation, in particular through local cultural beliefs, has been clearly demonstrated in Qinghai through the activities of NGOs such as the Upper Yangtze Organisation. However, problems currently encountered in southwest Qinghai include:
a lack of awareness of conservation issues - local people can be the first to notice a problem and they need to be sensitised to the indicators
a lack of communication between scientists and their research and the local communities that could make use of them in managing their natural resources
a lack of education/information on basic natural resource management, e.g., preventing the introduction of alien invasive species
a lack of involvement of local communities in important decisions affecting them, e.g., the Sanjiangyuan (Three Great Rivers) protected area
economic gains from tourism in the area do not return to the local people but rest with tour operators from the city
BWG therefore suggests that the following aspects should be greatly strengthened,
Links between all levels of which government and the local communities, especially involving major decisions such as establishment of protected areas
Development and use of training materials on biodiversity/natural resource use and management for local people
Effective system of economic incentives for local people to maintain alpine grasslands as one of their roles in participating in ecotourism
Discontinuation of the sale of land in western China (for agricultural development, or for the planting of trees / 'new' forest) to individuals or companies in eastern China as a part of their "compensation" for urbanization and consequent loss of farmland in eastern China.
Capacity building should be promoted at local levels as well as the provincial level, such as in wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching patrols, service sector, etc. This would likely increase a local sense of ownership of natural resources (biodiversity), and hence increase local support for long-term environmental protection efforts.

6.4 Ecotourism
Tourism, including ecotourism, is being promoted for economic development throughout the province. Ecotourism has the potential to fund conservation programs, and hence to protect the natural resources (biodiversity) - the very foundation of this industry - yet current tourism development planning in Qinghai Province does not seem to prioritize the "eco" of eco-tourism. In one instance, the construction of a long (4 km) tunnel is planned in order to open up a large region of the province, yet this tunnel would actually by-pass some of the most beautiful scenery near Xining. A large variety of other beautiful vistas were also noted on the southern trip as well as fairly significant bird life (except raptors, which are few in number where the plateau pika has been exterminated). If landscapes are adequately protected, ecotourism has the potential to be successfully developed in Qinghai province. However, a lot more planning for environmental protection still needs to be undertaken.

There was no evident active management of tourism in any of the natural areas visited by the Group - we saw limited staffing, minimal public education materials and litter strewn throughout the areas. This is not a situation unique to Qinghai, however, due to the fragile nature of the province's ecosystems, the need for adequate attention to this economic enterprise is vital.

A set of guidelines for all Tourism programmes in Qinghai should be established and enforced that include an overall philosophy of 'back to nature', a commitment to non-polluting activities, inclusion of public education and awareness in all enterprise as well as contribution to local economic development.
Improvements for tourism development are still needed in the service sector (e.g., quality of accommodations)
Assessing and limiting the number and/or environmental impact of tourism construction projects (e.g., road construction).

Annex I

Appendix 1　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Participants of Qinghai Biodiversity Conservation Workshop
BWG members
Wang Sung (Co-chair)　　　　　　　　　　　　 Inst. Zool., Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS)
Jin Jianming 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　State Environment Protection Agency (EPA)
Zhao Shidong　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Inst. Geograph. & Nat. Res. Inst., CAS
Qing Jianhua 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　State Forestry Administration
Zhu Mingyuan 　　　　　　　　　　1st Oceanography Inst. of State Administration of Oceanography
Li Dianmo 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Inst. Zool., CAS
Ma Keping　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Inst. of Botany, CAS
Peter Schei (Co-chair)　　　　　　　　　　　　 Director, Dir. for Nature Management, Norway
John MacKinnon 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　DICE, Kent University UK
Robert Hoffmann 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Div. Mammals, Smithsonian Institution, USA
Jeff McNeely 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Biodiversity Programme, IUCN
Andrew Smith (Coordinator) 　　　　　　　　　Dept. Zool., Arizona State Univ., USA
Jim Harkness 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　WWF - China Programme Office
Susan Mainka (de facto) 　　　　　　　　　　　Species Survival Programme, IUCN
Lawrence Chau (de facto) 　　　　　　　　　　 Kadoorie Farm & Botanical Garden, HK
Shunji USUI（Representing Kunio Kikuchi）Natn. Wildlife Research Center, Japan
Xie Yan (Coordinator) 　　　　　　　　　　　　　Inst. of Zool., CAS
Representatives from Prov. Government
Mu Dongsheng 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Vice Governor
Zhou Yongzhi 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Vice Mayor of Xining City
He Dongjiang 　　　　　　　　　　　　　Director, Qinghai Prov. Environment Protection Bureau (EPB)
Zhao Haoming 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Dep. Director, Qinghai EPB
Zhang Shengjie 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qianhai EPB
Mei Jieren 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qianhai EPB
Gu Wuli 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Qianhai EPB
Qi Ming 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qianhai EPB
Liu Yi 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qianhai EPB
Zhu Lixin 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Qianhai EPB
Liu Dongqing 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qianhai EPB
Ren Yong 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qianhai EPB
Ge Jingsong 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qianhai EPB
Wang Qingli 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Qianhai EPB
Wu Shuishun 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Sci. & Tech. Dept.
Awang Jiancuo 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Qinghai Prov. Husbandry Dept.
Wang Daming 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Grassland Dept., Prov. Husbandry Bur.
Li Jun 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Office, Prov. Husbandry Bur.
Dang Xiaoyong 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Prov. Forestry Bur.
Liao Taiyu 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Dep. D.G., Prov. Water Conservation Dept
Zheng Jie 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Wildlife Section/Qinghai Prov. Forestry Bur.
Liu Tianzhu 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Prov. Forestry Bur.
Wang Lixin 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Prov. Agriculture Dept
Wang Lixin 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Prov. Agriculture Bur.
Shi Xiaobo 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Qinghai Prov. Tourism Bur.
Hou Baojian 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Director, Prov. West Development Office
Luo Mingbao 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Director, Xining EPB
Zhou Zujun 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Xining EPB
Wang Peisheng 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Xining Education Commission
Zhaduo 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Zhiduo County, Qinghai

International organizations and NGOs
Leiv Landro 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Norwegian Embassy
Qian Qihong 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　U.S. Embassy
John Fellowes 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Kadoorie Farm & Botanical Garden, HK
Bosco Chan 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Kadoorie Farm & Botanical Garden, HK
Michael Harding 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Fauna & Flora International
Marc Foggin 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Executive Director, Plateau Perspective
Marion Foggin 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Plateau Perspective
Gyatso Plateau 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Perspective
Drashi Dorje HASHI 　　　　　　　　　　Upper Yangtze Conservation and Development Organization
Jinping Yu 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Zoo Atlanta
Lai Chien Hsun 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Dept. Biology, Arizona State Univ.
Wang Haibin 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Independent Natural Resources Consultant
Stephen Fuller 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Senior Scientist, GEF China Wetland Program
National experts
Qian Yinqian 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Inst. of Botany, CAS
Chen Lingzhi 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Inst. of Botany, CAS
Ding Jianqing 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Biological Control Inst., Chinese Acad. Agr. Sci.
Li Junyang 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Zhejiang University
Su Jianping 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Northwest Plateau Inst. of Biology, CAS
Zhao Xinquan 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Northwest Plateau Inst. of Biology, CAS
Zhang Yanming 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Northwest Plateau Inst. of Biology, CAS
Zhou Xingmin 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　NW Plateau Inst. of Biology, CAS
Peng Ming 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　NW Plateau Inst. of Biology, CAS
Kang Ling 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　NW Plateau Inst. of Biology, CAS
Tao Shuanglun 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　NW Plateau Inst. of Biology, CAS
Chen Guichen 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　NW Plateau Inst. of Biology, CAS
Zhao Zhenying 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Inst. Geograph. & Nat.Res. Inst., CAS
Xiong Haihong 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Inst. of Environment Sciences
Li Fajiang 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Inst. of Environment Sciences
Zhang Dengshan 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Inst. of Agriculture Sciences
Wang Liuying 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Husbandry & Veter. Inst.
Xu Chengti 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Husbandry & Veter. Inst.
Wang Min Dep. 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Director, Xining Zoo
Lang Baining 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Husbandry & Veter. Inst.
Zhu Zhihong 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Agriculture and Husbandry Dept., Qinghai University
Li Junxiang 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Agriculture and Husbandry Dept., Qinghai University
Yan Lin 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Agriculture and Husbandry Dept., Qinghai University
Ma Haizhou 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Normal University
Chen Yuanfu 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Normal University
Liu Tongjian 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Plateau Endangered Species Breeding Center
Si Wenxuan 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Plateau Endangered Species Breeding Center
Guo Jingshi 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Environment Monitor Center Station
Zhu Hui 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Qinghai Environment Monitor Center Station
Others
An Shiyuan 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Chinese Environment News
Dong Zhi 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Chinese Nature
Xie Minhua 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Interpreter
Wu Jinjun 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　State Administration for Broadcast & TV
Wang Yan 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Xining Third Middle School

Annex I

Appendix 2 Specific Recommendations for Protected Areas in Qinghai
These recommendations are based upon BWG's observations of two nature reserves and discussions during the Workshop on Biodiversity in Qinghai, which in particular highlighted the establishment of a new large nature reserve, Three Great Rivers (San Jiang Yuan), encompassing southwestern Qinghai province. Our accompanying justifications are designed to support both the general and reserve-specific recommendations.

Bird Island Nature Reserve:

Non-native poplars which have been planted along the approach road into the reserve should be removed
BWG noted that an introduced non-native species of poplar had been planted along the approach road. There are several significant problems with this development. First, it is inappropriate to promote the establishment of a non-native species in a nature reserve. Second, upon their maturation these poplars will totally restrict the vision of eco-tourists visiting the reserve, and will detract from the visitor's experience. Thus, the promotion of planting poplars appears short-sighted.
Small mammals are an important component of the natural ecosystem and should not be artificially reduced or removed
BWG noticed that plateau pikas, which were abundant in the reserve as recently as three years ago, were gone. This observation was confirmed by the staff of the small store located near the site (although they did not have direct information concerning the reduction in pika numbers). As indicated elsewhere in this document, plateau pikas are a keystone species for biodiversity, thus should be considered as an essential element in the reserve. In addition, plateau pikas have an intrinsic interest for eco-tourists and should be promoted as an interesting and dynamic species to observe in nature.
Research should be conducted on the viability of Bar-headed Goose eggs
BWG noted that at the primary nesting site of the Bar-headed Goose, there were an abundance of apparently infertile eggs. Given the putative poisoning with Botulism strains in adjoining agricultural areas, and maybe in the reserve itself, there is the potential for the grazing geese to have accumulated poisons leading to increased infertility.
Environmental education should be developed for visiting tourists to enhance their experience and contribute to an overall awareness of natural history and conservation issues
BWG observed that available information was very limited, old, and often illegible. BWG noted that some tourists were attempting to read the signs, but were frustrated. Bird Island is a very special place, so the lack of environmental education is a lost opportunity.

Chanhanhe Nature Reserve (Baoku Forestry Area and Reserve):
This area represents a remnant of mixed montane forest once common in the province, but which has now almost disappeared. Thus, it is a very special sit
No further areas should be cleared to provide services for tourists
BWG observed that the reserve has suffered the loss of forest cover when a large area was cleared for a parking lot and to create space for concessionaires.
Areas in the reserve which have been cleared or degraded should be reforested using native species.
Alien species, such as sheep and goats, should be removed from the reserve
BWG observed that while a number of deciduous species remain in the park, natural regeneration is inhibited by the presence of sheep and goats. These alien species destroy seedlings. The coniferous species which normally occur together with deciduous elements had been eliminated in places we observed. These species should be reintroduced utilizing conifers native to the region.
Trash and other discarded human products should be cleaned up, and management should provide appropriate avenues for trash disposal
BWG observed a significant amount of unsightly and unhygienic trash throughout the reserve, which undoubtedly discourages visitors from enjoying a positive experience.
Environmental education should be developed for visiting tourists to enhance their experience and contribute to an overall awareness of natural history and conservation issues
BWG observed that there was no available information provided to visitors, and this lack of environmental education is a lost opportunity.

Three Great Rivers (San Jiang Yuan) Nature Reserve:
This newly designated nature reserve covers most of the southwest corner of Qinghai province and encompasses an area of 236,000 km2. This large area is primarily high alpine grassland which is the current home of pastoralist townships. It is also the headwaters of three of the world's greatest rivers, each of which is an important economic, cultural and biological resource for China.
Existing pastoralist populations should be allowed to remain in the reserve and encouraged and facilitated in the protection of the reserve's natural resources
Connect the proposed reserve to the Chang Tang Reserve in Tibet, and coordinate management
BWG believes that, based upon its observations, provincial officials have a difficult time managing even small nature reserves. Thus, it is difficult to imagine the assumption of responsibilities of a reserve of this size. The concept of moving people out of core areas, used in some areas in China, is not advisable in this region. New roads are proposed in the area, and if local people are removed and enforcement activities remain as scarce as in other nature reserves in China, then the opportunities for poaching rare and endangered wildlife will only be greatly enhanced. In contrast, the BWG has experience working with a local NGO in the region (see Appendix II), and this experience has demonstrated that local pastoralists can indeed be part of the solution, not part of the problem.

Annex II:

Biodiversity and Sustainable Use of Biological Resources on the
Alpine Grasslands of China

2000 - 2001 PROJECT SUMMARY
The BWG Alpine Grasslands Project was initiated with several objectives:
To serve as a demonstration project for the maintenance and restoration of biodiversity and sustainable use of the alpine grasslands of Qinghai province
To provide direct support - through research, consultation and funding - of projects designed to improve the status of biodiversity and sustainable use of these alpine grasslands
To use the forum of the CCICED/BWG to ensure coordination and integration of approaches to projects in the region
To use the forum of the CCICED/BWG to communicate successful approaches for preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable use of natural resources in the region
In the past year, the BWG Alpine Grasslands Project has produced the following results:

1. Research was conducted to test the effect of poisoning of plateau pikas (Ochotona curzoniae) on the biodiversity of native birds on the alpine grasslands. The results indicated that poisoning of pikas reduced species diversity and overall abundance of birds, thereby providing solid evidence that the plateau pika serves as a keystone species for biodiversity on the alpine grasslands (Funding from Kadoorie Charitable Foundation). BWG worked closely with KCF and through the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden's South China Biodiversity Team to ensure sustainable practices in the activities of OxFam in their work on the grasslands of southern Qinghai.
   
   
2. Upper Yangtze Project. The BWG continued to work closely with Plateau Perspectives (PP) and the Upper Yangtze Organization (UYO) to develop the activities of the collaborative Upper Yangtze Project (UYP). A memorandum of understanding was signed between the BWG, PP and UYO to ensure common interests and goals for the project. Funding for the activities listed below originated from a variety of sources, many through the actions of PP. The BWG has served as a liaison for acquisition of funds in several instances (i.e., a grant to the UYO from Global Greengrants - A Tides Foundation, and more recently Flora and Fauna International - FFI; see below). Direct funding of projects from the BWG and some additional sources is indicated below. A summary of the background for and primary objectives of the UYP appear in the BWG Year 2000 Report

Ongoing development of solutions to arrest serious environmental issues in the source area of the Yangtze River in southwest Qinghai province

Ongoing activities of the Suojia Township Environmental Protection Bureau, its four branches (four villages in the region), and its 16 wildlife monitors. Native wildlife observations have now been gathered for over one year and are continuing. These data will form the basis of a larger program to involve local people in wildlife conservation efforts, and when compiled will demonstrate how local people can contribute significantly to national environmental policy. Each branch office has been supplied equipment and supplies to assist in this work. BWG has provided stationary and notebooks, GPS units, tape measures, and a library of field guides to assist with identification of flora and fauna; PP has provided work tents, binoculars, a 4WD vehicle, and other materials.

Ongoing development of a 133 km2 grassland demonstration area with a Snow Mountain Nomad Family Ecological Demonstration Village (Ch: Xueshan mumin jiayuan shengtai shifan cun) - a project whose main purpose is to spread new concepts of sustainable development and conservation
Ongoing development and management of four local protected areas (one for each of the following species: black-necked crane, snow leopard, Tibetan antelope, Tibetan wild ass) and one wetland habitat

Production of materials that express local understanding of ecology and culture in the source area of the Yangtze River (part of UYO's plans to develop their "Snow Mountain Nomad Family Compilation of Books" (Ch: Xueshan mumin jiayuan xilie congshu)

Book drafted on Tibetan antelope - to be distributed free to local nomads - designed to highlight the dangers that face this species and the need to involve local pastoralists in its protection

Book planned on the environment of the Tibetan plateau - designed to enhance environmental education efforts by providing a clear understanding of the local environment and sustainable development (PP has provided a camera to photographically document the target region). Author: Byemba.

Book written and published on the cultural history of the environment of the Suojia region, including oral histories of past pastoralist practices, attitudes towards the environment, ancient hunting practices, etc. PP has provided a tape-recorder to facilitate interviews; book written with funds provided by local government. Author: Wenzha.

Environmental education - establishment of tent schools, community centers and environmental education centers. The first two facilities listed below plan to adopt a curriculum targeted towards nomad children, including instruction in health and environmental issues. The schools are also being developed as community centers to encourage and facilitate adult education, sustainable rangeland management, alternative forms of income generation, etc. This model has "taken off" and now several schools have been replicated in the region.

Muqu village, Suojia Township, Zhiduo County. Established November 2000, approximately 20 students and two staff. Primary support from Barbour Trust (Scotland) via PP; also Global Greengrants (obtained with assistance from the BWG).

Yaqu village, Suojia Township, Zhiduo County. Established September 1999, approximately 70 students. Physical facilities (tents) provided by Children in Crisis (UK).

Snow Mountain Nomad Family Young People and Children's Environmental Education Center (Ch: Xueshan mumin jiayuan Qingshaonian Huanjing Zhongxin) - or Zhiduo Environmental Education Center. Active teaching of classes in ecology at middle-school level for two years, now incorporating additional printed teaching materials obtained from Friends of Nature (China) and international environmental videos translated into Chinese made available by Environment Education Television Project for China. Library resources provided by BWG.

Planning for Snow Mountain Nomad Family Environmental Awareness Truck (Ch: Xueshan mumin jiayuan huanjing jiaoyu liudong che). UYO does not yet have the truck, but teaching and training content is currently being developed.

Continued training of UYO leaders and village schoolteachers in environmental and health issues being led by PP - with proposal pending to Friends of Nature (China) for collateral support.

Income generation. Two principal means of income generation in the high altitude grasslands of Qinghai are currently being investigated:

Ecotourism development. Investigations are underway to assess the advantages and disadvantages of developing a limited local ecotourism industry (c.f. stakeholder analysis, cost-benefit analysis, environmental impact assessment). These could lead to the formation of a Snow Mountain Nomad Family Ecotourism Company (Ch: Xueshan mumin jiayuan luxingshe)

Value-added products. Investigations are underway to determine new ways to generate income through further processing of livestock products and handicraft development.

Collateral projects: While the BWG's input to the UYP focuses on those issues related to natural resource conservation and biodiversity, the UYP, primarily with the leads being taken by the UYO and PP, does address other critical issues in the region: Snow disaster relief and community health issues. These issues tend to be folded into the overall UYP agenda, as tent schools double as avenues for health awareness training in addition to environmental education, etc. Some of the funding sources for these issues thus provides support for some of the infrastructure needed for environmental programs

• Coordination of biodiversity and sustainable development activities in the alpine meadows grassland region of Qinghai.
  
  A primary way in which the BWG assists bringing together those interested in issues confronting the high grasslands of Qinghai is through open participation in its annual meeting. In July 2000 BWG invited representatives from the UYO and FFI to its meeting to ensure that their respective interests could be coordinated. Similarly the June 2001 meeting in Xining brought together government officials, agencies, academic institutions, and NGOs with a common interest in the project area.
  BWG played an active role in the development of FFI's initiative to work on the alpine grasslands of Qinghai: introducing the UYO and UYP to FFI, giving their support to FFI's funding proposal to the Darwin Fund, assisting with the preparation and writing of the successful proposal, and participating in the first scoping workshop.
  Within the past year, BWG has worked closely with the Kadoorie Charitable Trust, the South China Biodiversity Team of the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, OxFam (UK), Landcare Research Ltd. (New Zealand), CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems (Australia), and the IUCN/SSC Invasive Species Specialist Group on issues impacting the biodiversity and sustainable use of the alpine grasslands of Qinghai.
  
• BWG annual reports and targeted recommendations stemming from the 2001 meeting in Xining serve to inform of activities in the region that are working as well as present ideas of activities for consideration by various sectoral levels for implementation to promote biodiversity and sustainable development on Qinghai's high alpine grasslands.