Ecological monitoring of MTR Kam Tin Wetlands, Hong Kong
Long-term monitoring of Tuen Ma Line wetlands shows how thoughtful infrastructure mitigation can foster thriving, biodiverse habitats in urban Hong Kong.
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AEC, a member of the Aurecon Group, was appointed to design an ecological enhancement wetland to offset habitat loss and disturbance arising from the construction and operation of the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line.
The Lok Ma Chau Ecological Enhancement Area covers 32 hectares and is composed of three main habitats, reedbeds, marsh and fishponds. It is a requirement under the Environmental Permit for the project.
AEC was originally appointed by MTR Corporation Limited (MTR) to design the Ecological Enhancement Area and has subsequently undertaken environmental surveys and wildlife monitoring and provides adaptive management advice.
During the design process, vegetation composition, structure and water regimes were optimised, and associated structures (topography, water supply and drainage, water courses and water control) were designed to encourage biodiversity. A Habitat Creation and Management Plan was developed to ensure a net ecological gain compared to fishponds that are not managed for wildlife.
Following completion of the Ecological Enhancement Area, Aurecon has remained as MTR's long-term ecological consultant conducting regular surveys and monitoring to inform adaptive management practices.
This process entails reviewing the monitoring data, habitat conditions and seasonality, to ensure the site is maintained in an optimal condition. The area now supports a wide variety of species of conservation importance, including the rare and declining Eurasian otter, the globally-threatened black-faced spoonbill and the critically endangered yellow-breasted bunting.
Over 280 bird species have been recorded in the Ecological Enhancement Area, accounting for half of the bird species recorded in Hong Kong.
Our measures allow MTR to ensure that the operation of the Spur Line has a net ecological gain, and that the Ecological Enhancement Area continues to provide ecological value for Hong Kong and support its wildlife, especially that associated with wetlands.
Long-term monitoring of Tuen Ma Line wetlands shows how thoughtful infrastructure mitigation can foster thriving, biodiverse habitats in urban Hong Kong.
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