Thursday, October 9, 2008

Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department , formerly Agriculture and Fisheries Department before 2000, of the Hong Kong Government is responsible for agriculture and fisheries in Hong Kong, conservation projects and issues, and managing the . It reports to the Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food and Secretary for the Environment, Transport and Works .

The department is headed by the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation.

Plans have been revealed to restructure this department together with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department . The department will take up the environmental hygiene responsibility form the FEHD, and will be renamed Agriculture, Fisheries, Environmental Hygiene and Conservation Department.

Aberdeen Country Park

Aberdeen Country Park is located on the south end of Hong Kong Island in the area called Aberdeen, Hong Kong. Much of the south side of the island is underdeveloped and retains more of the rural feel that predominated on the island before it was settled by the .

The 4.23 square kilometre country park opened in 1931. Designated in 1977, it is one of the oldest country parks in Hong Kong.

Tai Tam Country Park

Tai Tam Country Park is a country park in the Tai Tam area in the south end of Hong Kong Island. The park was also expanded with the addition of the Tai Tam Country Park . At 1315 hectares, the park consists of one fifth of Hong Kong Island's land mass.

The park was designated in 1977 with attractions like:

*Jardine's Lookout
*Tai Tam Upper Reservoir
*Tai Tam Byewash Reservoir
*Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir
*Tai Tam Intermediate Reservoir
*Tai Tam Forts

Tai Tam Country Park (Quarry Bay extension)

Tai Tam Country Park is the eastern part of the park system in Hong Kong Island called Tai Tam Country Park. This 270 hectare section of the park is located near Quarry Bay opened in 1979.

Sites include:

* , the second highest peak on Hong Kong Island
* Mount Butler
* Quarry Bay

Tai Po Kau Special Area

Tai Po Kau Special Area is a wilderness preserve in Tai Po area of the New Territories in northern Hong Kong.

Tai Mo Shan

Tai Mo Shan has the highest in Hong Kong, with an altitude of 958 m. It is located approximately at the geographical centre of the New Territories.

The second highest elevation of the territory is Lantau Peak , 934 m, on Lantau Island.
The area surrounding Tai Mo Shan is a country park, which covers an area of 14.40 km? and adopts the same name - Tai Mo Shan Country Park. It is located to the north of Tai Lam Country Park and, separated by Shek Kong Valley is the Lam Tsuen Country Park with an area of 15.20 km?.

Geology


Tai Mo Shan is made up of volcanic rocks of Jurassic age. The volcanic rocks are mainly coarse ash crystal tuff. To the northwest, the west and the south of the peak, the valleys contain large deposits of colluvium. The upper slopes are distinctly "ribbed", as is especially evident after a hill fire. These are stone terraces, running obliquely downhill to the valleys. It is also claimed to be Hong Kongs most misty area due to it being covered in clouds almost daily.

It is rather easy to hike to the peak as there is a road all the way at a comfortable gradient. One cannot actually reach the highest point on Tai Mo Shan as there is a fenced-off satellite compound situated there; entry is prohibited, as is taking photos or making sketches.

Vegetation



There are forest plantations in the southeastern part of the park. Limited by climatic and geographic factors, these plantations end at the 550 metre contour, above which shrubs and grasses dominate.

In the past, Tai Mo Shan was famous for a type of green tea, called ''mist'' or ''cloud'' tea, which grew wild up on the mountain side. Occasionally, local people can still be seen picking the tea shoots for brewing green tea.

''Camellia sinensis var. waldenae'' are found on the mountain.

Wildlife



Some montane birds and rare species of snakes and butterflies breed here. There are also freshwater crabs, feral dogs, feral cats, oxen, and wild boar.

Places of interest


A series of barbecue and picnic sites are provided along Route Twisk, the Shek Kong - Pat Heung catchwater and the Tuen Mun catchwater.

The Rotary Park at Tai Mo Shan which has a car-park and extensive picnic facilities, is especially popular. Tourist groups often come here for a brief stop to enjoy the panoramic view. On a clear day even Lantau and its adjacent islands can be seen. Tai Mo Shan Visitor Centre is located not far away from the carpark, along Tai Mo Shan Road, which leads to the weather station on the top of the mountain.

To learn the techniques of hiking, you may visit the Hiking Practice Trail adjacent to the Tai Mo Shan car Park. Those would prefer short walks may visit the family walks in the park.

The Country Code



Visitors in country parks are asked to help keep the parks clean and prevent hill fires so that the facilities can be enjoyed by all. In 1986, a 34 hour blaze destroyed 282,500 trees at Shing Mun and Tai Mo Shan and ravaged 7.40 km? of countryside. Fire is the greatest threat to the beauty of the country parks.

Transportation



To Route Twisk of the entrance of Tai Mo Shan Country Park: Kowloon Motor Bus route operating between Tsuen Wan Nina Tower I and Kam Tin. The bus also stops at .

External links and references


* Initial text based on information provided by the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department , under the provision that the re-dissemination or reproduction is for non-commercial use.
* http://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/country/cou_vis/cou_vis_cou/cou_vis_cou.html

Tai Lam Country Park

Tai Lam Country Park , established on 23 February 1979, is a country park located in the Tai Lam, at the south of Yuen Long and east of Tuen Mun, in the western New Territories of Hong Kong. This has an area of 54 km?.

Highlights


A series of barbecue and picnic sites are provided along Route Twisk, the Sek Kong, Pat Heung catchwater and the Tuen Mun catchwater. In addition, there are a lot of trails. For example, the MacLehose Trail, The Kap Lung Forest Trail starts from the top of Route Twisk near the Country Park Management Centre. The Twisk Nature Trail near the Country Park Management Centre introduces the natural environment and human impacts in the area.

The fitness trail at So Kwun Wat catchwater provides 14 sets of fitness equipment for visitors and morning walkers.

Transportation


* To Route Twisk at Tai Lam Country Park - Kowloon Motor Bus No. 51
* To Tai Tong at Tai Lam Country Park - K66 feeder bus . The terminus is at Tai Tong.
* To Ho Pui at Tai Lam Country Park - GMB No. 71 .
* To Tuen Mun at Tai Lam Country Park - start the walk at Tuen Mun Hoh Fuk Tong (614 or 614P at
* To Sham Tseng : start the walk at Tsing Lung Tau.
* K51 - The bus Terminus is at Tai Lam, which is the south of the country park. The route passes through and

Shing Mun Country Park

The Shing Mun Country Park is a country park of Hong Kong, hugging the Shing Mun Reservoir.

Location


Located in the central New Territories, it covers a total of 14 km?. It extends from Lead Mine Pass in the north, to the Shing Mun catchwater road in the south, and from Tai Mo Shan in the west to Grassy Hill and Needle Hill in the east.

History


As early as 1971, a "pilot scheme" was initiated and prototype picnic facilities were provided, using funds from Sir David Trench Fund for Recreation. These were well received by visitors. In 1977, the area was formally designated as a country park.

Vegetation


At the head of the near the former Tai Wai Village, a "fung shui" grove contains a rich variety of more than 70 species of trees. It has been designated as a "special area" that merits special protection. To the west of the reservoir, both sides of the stream known as Tai Shing Shek Kan are covered with a rich variety of shrubs, grasses and trees, including several species of Camellia, ''Camellia granthamiana'', which bears beautiful white flowers more than 12 cm in diameter, is a rare species found only a few decades ago. It is named after a former , Sir Alexander Grantham.

During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong in World War II, most of the trees in the park were cut down. Extensive reafforestation was carried out after the war. The main species was ''Pinus massoniana'', whilst ''Pinus elliottii'', ''Lophostemon confertus'', ''Melaleuca quinquenervia'' and ''Acacia confusa'' were introduced later. The area has now become one of the major forest plantations in Hong Kong.

Wildlife


As the park is situated close to the densely populated urban area of Tsuen Wan, wildlife is seldom seen. Apart from a few common birds, other animals such as squirrels, barking deer, wild boars and pangolins may occasionally be discovered. Some monkeys, believed to have migrated from nearby Kam Shan Country Park, can sometimes be found along the forest tracks. Please remember not to feed them.

Geology


The land in this area is composed of and volcanic rocks. The latter form the highest ground, while the granitic rocks, which weather relatively easily, form the lower areas in the southern parts of the park. To the east of the park is a rich deposit of which was first mined in 1936. Mining was interrupted during World War II. With the high post-war prices, mining was resumed in 1951 and continued until 1968 when the prices again fell drastically. The highest average monthly output in the latter period was 30 tonnes, and was entirely for export. There are several abandoned lead workings around Lead Mine Pass, some of which date back several centuries.

Places to go


Shing Mun Country Park Visitor Centre


The Shing Mun Country Park Visitor Centre, is situated near the maxicab terminus. It provides displays on the origin and history of Shing Mun, the reservoir and the mining industry in the early 20th centuries. Animals and mineral specimens are also on display. Video programmes on Country Parks and Countryside Conservation matters are shown in the visitor centre at regular intervals.

Shing Mun Arboretum


The Shing Mun Arboretum, occupies 14 square kilometres, is situated in the Country Park. It extends to Shing Mun Reservoir Road in the south. The western border lies in Tai Mo Shan, while Grassy Hill and Needle Hill mark the eastern margin. There are 7000 plants, belonging to over 270 species in the Arboretum. The plants include a collection of bamboos, protected plant species, plants named after Botanists, plants first discovered in Hong Kong and Camellias found in Hong Kong Countryside, etc.

Other facilities


At the park entrance a large information board and a direction post have been erected, providing visitors with information and guidance. Barbecue facilities are provided throughout the areas to the south and south-east of the reservoir, near the dams. Toilets, a refreshment kiosk, rain-shelters, warden posts, jogging trails, a nature trail, viewcompasses and many other facilities are also provided. Sections 7 and 8 of the MacLehose Trail run through the Park from Smugglers' Ridge in the south-east of the park to Route Twisk in the west. A campsite is provided near Lead Mine Pass for trail hikers.

Transportation


Visitors are advised to use public transport, as there is no parking space in the park. The Transport Department also prohibits coaches and private buses from using the Shing Mun Road leading to the park because of the narrowness of the road. 82 runs between Shiu Wo Street, Tsuen Wan and Shing Mun Reservoir.

External links and references



*Initial text based on information provided by the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department , under the provision that the re-dissemination or reproduction is for non-commercial use.
*

Shek O Country Park

Shek O Country Park is a rural marine park located on Shek O, Southern District, Hong Kong and facing the South China Sea. The 701 hectare park opened in 1979.

The park's attractions include:

*Dragon's Back
*D'Aguilar Peak
*Hong Kong Trail
*To Tei Wan Village
*Shek O Beach

Sai Kung West Country Park

Sai Kung West Country Park is 30 square kilometre country park in Sai Kung Peninsula in northeast Hong Kong. Opened in 1978 the park's sights include:

*Wong Chuk Wan
*Tai Mong Tsai
*Hoi Ha Marine Park

Sai Kung East Country Park

Sai Kung East Country Park is a 44.77 km? country park in Sai Kung Peninsula in Hong Kong. It opened in 1978 with features like:

*Po Pin Chau
*Wong Shek Pier

Pok Fu Lam Country Park

Pok Fu Lam Country Park is located on Pok Fu Lam, the western end of the of Hong Kong Island. The 2.7 square kilometre hectare park was designated in 1979.

The park includes:

*Sylvan sanctuary
*Pok Fu Lam Reservoir
*Hong Kong Trail
*Peak Trail

Pat Sin Leng Country Park

Pat Sin Leng Country Park , Plover Cove Country Park and Plover Cove Extension Country Park are country parks of Hong Kong,

Location



Hills, water, trees and flowers - all the elements of the ideal Chinese landscape are to be found in the Plover Cove, Plover Cove Extension and Pat Sin Leng Country Parks. Much of the water in this area of the north-eastern New Territories consists of man-made s from the vast area of Plover Cove itself to the miniature delights of Hok Tau and Lau Shui Heung reservoirs.

The Plover Cove Extension Country Park embraces seven off-shore islands which form some of Hong Kong's most beautiful coastal scenery. The island of Ping Chau in remotest Mirs Bay has long been popular with weekend visitors from the city, but the park boundary now also includes parts of Kat O Chau ; Tui Min Chau; Ngo Mei Chau ; Wong Wan Chau ; Wu Yeung Chau; and Chek Chau which is located in Mirs Bay, near the mouth of Tolo Channel and Long Harbour.

Characteristics



Landscape



Most parts of the Plover Cove Country Parks are dominated by views of water in one direction and by the massive range of hills which bisects the area. The Pat Sin Leng Country Park meets the Plover Cove park and turns this part of the New Territories into a complete scenic reserve. The Pat Sin Range has one of those poetic names which Chinese nature lovers bestow on their favourite haunts. Literally meaning "Eight Immortals Range", these peaks are often wreathed in mist, making them all too believable an abode for spirits.

Wild animals



A Chau egretry is an islet outside the country park boundaries but it is scheduled under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance. Entry into the egretry is prohibited from April to September during the breeding season. Binoculars will give you a good view of the inhabitants of the untidy nests in the dense cluster of trees. The Chinese Pond Heron, Little Egret and Cattle Egret regularly nest here. Since 1972 a small number of Night Herons have also been annual visitors; they are now common here. The residents of this district have traditionally regarded the summer visitors as omens of good fortune and they have thus always been left to breed in peace, now reinforced by legislation.

Plants



This area has long been appreciated by local naturalists. The wooded valleys of the two streams which feed Bride's Pool contain many indigenous species of trees, with scarlet Rhododendron simsii lighting up the valley in spring. Other flowering shrubs line the banks of the valley, and the rocks near the waterfalls are ideal for ferns, begonias and orchids. Like all Hong Kong's wild flowers, these are protected by law and visitors who pick them are liable to prosecution.

Places to go



The highest peak in the Pat Sin Range rises over 550 metres and thus only the more experienced hikers should attempt to walk along these hills - and in fine weather. A four-kilometres nature trail has been laid out from the Tai Mei Tuk Management Centre and back to Bride's Pool. The terrain is rugged in parts, however, and not recommended for casual walkers.

Hok Tau, Lau Shui Heung, Sha Lo Tung and Tsat Muk Kiu all provide good starting points for exploring the Pat Sin Range from the Sha Tau Kok roadside. Barbecue, picnic and camping sites here, as in the vicinity of Plover Cove, make this a natural base for serious exploration.

The Lau Shui Heung and Hok Tau Country Trails are also ideal for hiking.

Transportation



Recreation sites are accessible by taking bus and public light bus. Moreover, limited car park spaces are also available at the roadside recreation sites.

* Bus:
** 75K to Tai Mei Tuk.
** 275R Tai Po Market KCR to Bride's Pool
* PLB :
** 56K to Luk Keng
** 52K Fanling KCR to Hok Tau
* Ferry: Ma Liu Shui to Ping Chau only available on weekend, Sunday and Public Holiday.

External links and references


* Initial text based on information provided by the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department , under the provision that the re-dissemination or reproduction is for non-commercial use.
*

Ma On Shan Country Park

Some of Hong Kong's most dramatic scenery is to be found within the boundaries of the Ma On Shan Country Park . The park was established on April 27, 1979. Located in the central neck of the Sai Kung peninsula in the eastern New Territories, this covers 28.8 square kilometres. This park links the Sai Kung Country Park and Lion Rock Country Park to form an extensive recreation area on the Ma On Shan massif.

Sightseeing



Apart from a charming, separate section of the park of the Hebe Haven peninsula, much on the Ma On Shan Country Park is inland. Distant vistas of the sea and off-shore islands open up from many of the high vantage points within the park's boundaries, but most of the exploring keeps you far from the coast.

Iron mine of Ma On Shan



Iron mining has for long been carried out at Ma On Shan. The lease of the mine expired in 1981 and activity has meanwhile diminished as the quality of the ore has declined. Concealed mine shafts and man-made scree slopes are potentially dangerous and the area around the mine - excluded from the park, although surrounded by it - should be explored with care.


Vegetation



Most of these hills are rather bare in terms of vegetation. Their inaccessibility made it uneconomic to carry out afforestation when tree planting was necessary for fuel supply; the mainly volcanic slopes are inhospitable to all but the hardiest plants. Nevertheless some unusual pockets of vegetation have survived over the years and even the ruined slopes of Ma On Shan are notable for their wild rhododendron, orchids and some unusual ferns.

Wildlife



As can be imagined, such secluded and unspoilt surroundings have fostered an interesting range of wildlife within the park. Pangolin, barking deer, porcupine and wild boar are still spotted from time to time.

Hiking trails


* Ma On Shan Country Trail - From Ma On Shan Village to Tai Shui Tseng via .
* Wilson Trail - Stage 4 is from Tseng Lan Shue to Shatin Pass via Tai Lo Au.
* MacLehose Trail - Stage 4 & 5, starting from Kei Ling Ha to Tate's Cairn and then to Tai Po Road via Shatin Pass.

Lung Fu Shan Country Park

Lung Fu Shan Country Park is a country park located in the Central and Western District of Hong Kong. It covers the densely vegetated slopes of Lung Fu Shan, including the disused Pinewood Battery as well as the Pinewood Garden picnic area, providing a scenic backdrop to the residential and commercial districts of Hong Kong Island. In proximity to residential areas in Mid-levels and , Lung Fu Shan area is intensively used by the public, especially by morning walkers and picnickers. It is situated at the north of Pok Fu Lam Country Park. Towards the east of Lung Fu Shan Country Park is Hatton Road, to the south is Harlech Road whereas to the north and west is a covered conduit constructed by the Water Supplies Department. This country park covers an area of about 47 hectares, making it the smallest country park in Hong Kong . It is also the newest country park, according to the establishment date.

Spots


Lung Fu Shan Trail


Lung Fu Shan Fitness Trail is a 2750m long trail on the Peak. Signs provide information about safe hiking on the trail. The trail starts at Pinewood Garden, routing through the Pinewood Battery, a few barbecue sites, a number of shelters, a flight of steps and a section of steep road before arriving at the junction of Harlech Road and Hatton Road. It takes about 60 minutes to complete the trail.

Pinewood Battery


The disused Pinewood Battery is a historic military site constructed in around 1903, and is now under preservation. Interpretive signs are erected to illustrate the historical significance of this Battery.

With the excellent environment, the Battery became a spot for wargaming. To prevent further damage of the Battery, the Country and Marine Parks Authority, has set up a warning sign on the site, stating that "''using or possession of any firearm, airgun, propelling or releasing instrument are prohibited''". However, many plastic BB bullets are still found on the site.



View Compass


The View Compass commands an excellent vistas of the western part of the territory and the Victoria Harbour.




Country parks nearby


*Pok Fu Lam Country Park

Sai Kung West Country Park (Wan Tsai Extension)

Sai Kung West Country Park is a 1.23 km? country park in Sai Kung Peninsula in northeast Hong Kong. Opened in 1996 the park's sights include:

*Tap Mun
*Ko Lau Wan
*Coffin Rock
*Campgrounds

Lion Rock Country Park

Lion Rock Country Park is a country park, located in the New Territories, Hong Kong. It consists of approximately 5.57 square kilometres of land, including Lion Rock and Mong Fu Shek and their surrounding scenic hillsides, of which 3.48 square kilometres is forestry plantations.

Landmarks


The dominant topographical feature of the park is the Lion Rock, which from some angles resembles a lion perching on a hill ridge.

Another topographical feature of the park is the Mong Fu Shek . The legend is that of a faithful wife who climbed the hills every day, carrying her son, to watch for the return of her husband, not knowing he had been drowned at sea. In reward for her faithfulness she was turned into a rock by the Goddess of the Sea so that her spirit could unite with that of her husband.

is another landscape feature of the park. Its Chinese name derives from the warning fire signals which were lit during the Qing Dynasty on the hill top, which was one of the many "lookouts" guarded by soldiers to alert surrounding areas to danger from pirates or hostile intruders. Today a radar station and a police transmitter occupy the top of the hill.

Sightseeing


From the slopes of Golden Hill and several places along the western ridge at the park, magnificent panoramic views can be enjoyed. From these localities the whole length of Smugglers Ridge, Tai Mo Shan , Needle Hill, Shatin New Town, Lion Rock and Beacon Hill can be seen. The northern part of Kowloon, the western anchorage of , and Stonecutters Island, the housing estates of Kwai Chung, , the industrial parts of Tsing Yi Island and the town of Tsuen Wan can also be viewed from these vantage points.

The Lion Rock area has long been a favourite for picnickers, hikers and tourists because it includes scenic spots such as Lion Rock, and Mong Fu Shek.

Vegetation



The more common species in the area include ''Pinus elliotti'' , ''Myrica rubra'' , ''Schefflera octophylla'' , ''Reevesia thyrsoidea'' , ''Phyllostachys aurea'' , ''Enkianthus quinqueflorus'' and species of Melastoma.

Wildlife


The area is specially noted for two species of wildlife, the black-eared kite and the long-tailed macaque.

The black-eared kite is a migratory bird found in Asia and Australia. It is a scavenger, feeding on offal, carrion, refuse and dead fish in the harbour. , a well wooded ridge in the park, is one of the popular nesting areas near the harbour, probably because of the presence of tall pine trees.

The long-tailed macaques present in this area are not local wildstock but are descendants of monkeys released in 1920. Their food includes leaves, fruits, insects and small animals. It is illegal to feed monkeys. They can attack and inflict painful bites on human being, especially in their mating season or when they have their young with them.

Geology


Varieties of granite which occur include Sung Kong, Cheung Chau and Ma On Shan Granites. In some places the granites are cut by quartz veins containing, amongst other minerals, wolframite, which is tungsten-bearing.

Places to go


Owing to the most convenient transport, people enjoy themselves in the parks with different kinds of activities, such as morning walking and hiking. Particularly on Sunday and Public Holiday, it is very busy in the parks. There are jogging trail, morning walker gardens and barbecue sites etc. provided in the parks.

An extensive network of footpaths has been laid out in the park providing access to almost every part or the park. MacLehose Trail - Stages 5 and 6 starts from Sha Tin Pass to Shing Mun Reservoir. Wilson Trail - Stage 6 begins from Tai Po Road to Shing Mun Reservoir Main Dam via Smugglers Ridge .

Within the park there is a family walk provided for family users.

Surrounding the and reservoirs are two jogging trails specially designed for visitors who enjoy morning exercises and keeping fit.

Moreover, there is a tree walk to guide visitors who wish to know more about trees in the park.

A 15-station fitness trail, with specially designed equipment, is located on the catchwater track leading eastwards from the Tai Po Road near 51 milestone. In the western part of the park there is a nature trail which provides an opportunity for studying the natural history and geography of the area.

The Country Code


Visitors in country parks are asked to help keep the parks clean and prevent hill fires so that the facilities can he enjoyed by all. Nearly all of the hill fires, and certainly all the litter, can be attributed to those visitors who do not observe the country code. Fire must only be lit in the barbecue and camping places which are specially designated and clearly marked. Every bit of unwanted waste and litter must be put into litter bin or stockade or taken away by those who brought it.

Transportation


There is no road access to the Lion Rock Country Park; walkers may enter by footpaths via Hung Mui Kuk, Tsok Pok Hang from Sha Tin, or via Wang Tau Hom from Kowloon and from Tai Po Road via the catchwater footpath near Kowloon Reservoir.

Lantau South Country Park

Lantau South Country Park is one of two rural parks on Lantau Island and is located on the south side of the island. At 144 square kilometres was designated in 1978 and it is the largest country parks in Hong Kong.

Sites include:

*Lantau Peak
*Sunset Peak
*Yi Tung Shan
*Fan Lau
*Shek Pik Reservoir

Lantau North Country Park

Lantau North Country Park is one of two rural parks on Lantau Island and is located on the north side of the island.

Highlights of the park include:

* Wong Lung Hang Country Trail
*Tung Chung Fort
*Tai Tung Shan
*Lin Fa Shan 766m
*Three Towers

The 22 square kilometre park was designated in 1978.

Lam Tsuen Country Park

Lam Tsuen Country Park is 15.20 km? country park in the New Territories, Hong Kong. The park opened in 1979.

Features include:

*Yuen Long Plain
*Lam Tsuen Valley
*Kwai Kok Shan 585 m
*Sam Tin
*Liying School

Kiu Tsui Country Park

Liu Tsui Country Park is a 1 km? country park in Sai Kung. The park opened in 1979 with features like:

*Hap Mun Bay
*Sharp Island
*Tombolo
*Liu Tsui Beach

Kam Shan Country Park

Kam Shan Country Park , established on 24 June 1977), is a country park located in the ranges north of Kowloon, Hong Kong. It covers an area of 3.37 km?. Most of the area is covered by the Kowloon Group of Reservoirs.

Flora and Fauna


The Country Park is very rich in flora, with a great diversity of native and exotic species.

Melastoma species, Rose Myrtle , Acronychia , Hong Kong Gordonia , Fragrant Litsea , Red Machilus , Pop-gun Seed and Ivy Tree , and the rather special Ram-rod Bamboo are the common varieties in the Country Park.

Since the 1950's, exotic flora species have been progressively introduced to Kam Shan Country Park. These exotic species includes Brisbane Box and Eucalyptus species from Australia, and the charming Paper-bark Tree . They can be found in abundance along the waterlogged uplands on Kam Shan Road near the shooting range.

Kam Shan, or Monkey Hill to most locals, is a famous macaques kingdom in Hong Kong. The macaques are the largest group of mammals in the park. Major species occurring here are Rhesus Macaque and Longtailed Macaque . These monkeys are probably descendants of individuals released by pet owners, whereas wild macaque groups native to Hong Kong have almost disappeared due to habitat destruction and over-hunting. Apart from monkeys, this Country Park is also a shelter of squirrels and many bird species.

Common winged species found in the Counrtry Park includes Black Kite , Crested Goshawk , Common Kingfisher , Common Tailorbird , Great Coucal , House Swift and Rufous-backed Shrike .

Hoi Ha Wan

Hoi Ha Wan or Jones Cove is a bay at the north of Sai Kung Peninsula. It is a marine park in Hong Kong.

The location has a high biological value, as it shows a high degree of biodiversity. That is because the Park is a sheltered bay with pristine water quality, so that it provides a good marine environment for housing a great variety of marine organisms. Numerous kinds of corals can be ascertained under the sea, and it is a hot spot for diving. So as to keep the local ecosystems away from human intervention, fishing, particularly bottom trawling and uses of dynamites or poisons like cyanides, collecting sea products and corals are prohibited by law.

Geography



Covering an area of around 2.6 square kilometres, the seaward boundary of the Park is demarcated by linking the tips of Heung Lo Kok and Kwun Tsoi Kok through the northern end of Flat Island and . The landward boundary follows the high water mark along the coastline.

Ecology


Mangrove communities


Like the nursery grounds in Mai Po, Ho Ha Wan also offers a mangrove community occupying about 5,300 square metres. Along with a buffer zone between the tidal waters and the land, the mangrove woods are commonly act an ecologically sustainable habitat for juvenile fishes and other intertidal and subtidal invertebrates.

Marine communities


Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park has lush coral communities. Most of the stony coral species recorded in Hong Kong can be found in this marine park. 100-odd species of reef-associated fishes have been recorded in Hoi Ha Wan. In addition, records of wide variety of marine animals, like starfish and jellyfish, in the Park further demonstrates its ecological significance.

Reef Check through AFCD performed by local British Sub-Aqua Club diving enthusiasts 'Ydive' has annually monitored coral & marine life variety & density since 1997.

History


There are also the remnants of limekilns. There are total 4 limekilns in Hoi Ha Wan but only 2 remain comparatively intact. They are located on the eastern shore of inner Hoi Ha Wan. Limekiln industry was one of the oldest industries in Hong Kong, which refined lime from either oyster shells or coral skeletons for construction and agricultural uses. In the processes, limestone, i.e. calcium carbonate, in the shells and corals would be transformed into calcium oxide by means of heating.

Transport


It can be reached by taking Route 7 of of New Territories at Sai Kung Town Centre. The minibus provides service at daytime everyday, and the fare is 10 as of 2007.

Country parks and conservation in Hong Kong

Although Hong Kong is regarded as one of the world's great cities, out of the total 1,092 km? of land, about three-quarters is countryside. Scenically, Hong Kong has a great deal to offer - a landscape rising from sandy beaches and rocky foreshores to heights of almost 1,000 metres, woodlands and mountain ranges covered by open grassland and a variety of scenic vistas rarely, if ever, matched in so small a territorial unit. Most of the Hong Kong's parks have over 1,000 species of plants.

Country parks


To conserve and, where appropriate, open up the countryside for the greater enjoyment of the population, the Country Parks Ordinance was enacted in 1976 to provide a legal framework for the designation, development and management of Country Parks and Special Areas. It provides for the establishment of a Country and Marine Parks Board to advise the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation who, as Country and Marine Parks Authority, is responsible for all matters on Country Parks and Special Areas.

Country Parks are designated for the purposes of nature conservation, countryside recreation and outdoor education. Special Areas are created mainly for the purpose of nature conservation.

The parks



The country parks and special areas cover a total area of 415.82 km?. The country parks comprise scenic hills, woodlands, reservoirs and coastline in all parts of Hong Kong. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department manages the parks and is responsible for tree planting, litter collection, fire fighting, development control and provision of recreation and education facilities. The country parks are very popular with all sectors of the community and spending a day in a country park is accepted by many as one of the best recreational choices in town. About 12 million visitors were recorded in 2004 and most visitors engaged in leisure walking, fitness exercises, hiking, barbecuing, family picnics and camping.

The parks include Tai Mo Shan, Pat Sin Leng mountain range, Ma On Shan, Lion Rock, Sai Kung Peninsula, forest plantations at Shing Mun and Tai Lam, Shek Lei Pui Reservoir group and Lantau Island. Several islands such as Ping Chau in Mirs Bay are included, and Hong Kong Island itself has five Country Parks.

Facilities


Park facilities provided in recreational sites include tables and benches, barbecue pits, litterbins, children’s play apparatus, shelters, campsites and toilets — all carefully designed to blend in with the environment. Footpaths and family walks provide easy access to the hills and the woodlands for visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of these areas. Major paths are being improved and through the hilly terrain.

The four are very popular among hikers:
* The MacLehose Trail traverses the New Territories from Sai Kung in the east to Tuen Mun in the west.
* The Lantau Trail is a circular trail on Lantau Island.
* The Hong Kong Trail traverses all the five Country Parks on Hong Kong Island.
* The Wilson Trail opened in January 1996 stretches from in the south of Hong Kong Island to Nam Chung in the north of the New Territories.

Education and visitor service



More facilities are provided to help visitors to enjoy and understand the countryside. Visitor centres have been established at Aberdeen, Plover Cove, Sai Kung, Clear Water Bay, Shing Mun and Tai Mo Shan. The Lions Nature Education Centre at Tsiu Hang Special Area in Sai Kung is a special attraction to visitors as it consists of a rich collection of fruit-bearing and amenity trees, vegetables, rocks and minerals and other local vegetation. The Shing Mun Arboretum has a collection of about 300 plant species. Along nature trails and tree walks, there are on-site interpretative signs for those who wish to study nature. AFCD has also set up a website and a number of fax-on-demand lines to provide the public with information about country parks. Furthermore, community involved conservation programmes such as the Corporate Afforestation Scheme, School Visit Programme, Guided Walks and many other voluntary services have been organized. In 2004, more than 200 000 people participated in these conservation programmes.

The parks and the special areas contain a wide variety of vegetation, including native and introduced tree species such as Camphor Laurel '''', Machilus, Schima, Acacia, Slash Pine and Brisbane Box. There are also animals such as Barking Deer, Macaque, Wild Boar, Civet Cat, Pangolin, Chinese Porcupine and Squirrel; birds such as the Greater Coucal, Great Barbet, Chinese Bulbul, Crested Mynah, Spotted Dove and Black-eared Kite; and a large variety of insects and about 240 species of butterflies. Over 500 bird nest boxes have been introduced into country parks to enhance the breeding of birds.

The Tai Po Kau Special Area is a 'Nature Reserve' and caters for those who wish to study tree, plant, bird and insect life, as well as providing pleasant and interesting walks. There is a total ban on the lighting of fires in this important woodland area. This is Hong Kong's best site for forest birding, with species including Chestnut Bulbul, and Grey-throated Minivets, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Fork-tailed Sunbird, and Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker. Several species that were certainly or probably escapees from captivity have become established here - for instance, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, Blue-winged Minla and Silver-eared Mesia. Migrants occur here, especially during spring and autumn, and in winter; the globally near-threatened Japanese Paradise-Flycatcher occurs annually in small numbers.

Increasing emphasis is being given to facilities to help visitors to enjoy and understand the countryside. In this connection, six visitor centres have been established at , Plover Cove, Sai Kung, Clear Water Bay, Shing Mun and Tai Mo Shan. The Lions Nature Education Centre at Tsiu Hang Special Area in Sai Kung, consists of a rich collection of fruit-bearing and amenity trees, vegetables, rocks and minerals, and other local vegetation, has been established for the purpose of nature education. The Shing Mun Arboretum has a collection of about 300 plant species. Along nature trails and tree walks, there are on-site interpretative signs for those who wish to study the nature.

Management


Fire is the major hazard and it bedevils park management for about six months every year. This is the time of the cool, dry winter when many people like to spend a day out in the hills-especially at weekends and public holidays. In a normal fire season there can be as many as 300 hill fires in the parks with five to seven fires a day when conditions are particularly bad. In 1986, a 34 hour blaze destroyed 282,500 trees at Shing Mun and Tai Mo Shan and ravaged 7.4 km? of countryside. Fire is the greatest threat to the beauty of the country parks.

Litter is another problem. One of the major tasks of park management is to collect litter left by the visitors which in 2001 totalled some 3 850 tonnes.

With such problems in mind, the Country and Marine Parks Authority has provided barbecue pits and litter bins located strategically throughout the park areas for the visitors. The Authority also prosecutes anyone found littering, damaging facilities or lighting fires outside the approved barbecue sites in the Country Parks.

A number of management centres have been established in strategic locations within the Country Parks from which construction, maintenance and protection services are provided.

Marine parks



The Marine Parks Ordinance protects and conserves the marine environment and a rich collection of aquatic animals and plants, such as corals, sea grasses and dolphins. The ordinance also provides the legal framework for the designation, control and management of marine parks and marine reserves. The Marine Parks and Marine Reserve Regulation provides for the prohibition and control of certain activities in marine parks and marine reserve.

Conservation


A wide variety of animal and plant life can be found in large areas of Hong Kong, especially in the New Territories. The Government’s increasing concern with the protection of the natural environment has been demonstrated both by legislation and by the activities of its conservation staff. Game hunting is prohibited.

Habitat protection


About 38 per cent of land in Hong Kong has been designated as country parks and special areas which provide statutory protection for the habitats of our diverse flora and fauna. In addition, 64 Sites of Special Scientific Interest have been listed to recognize the scientific importance of these sites and to ensure that due consideration to conservation is given when developments in or near these sites are proposed. For example, San Chau and Ngong Ping at Lantau have been listed as SSSIs in recognition of the presence of the largest population of Rhododendron championae and Romer’s Tree Frog in Hong Kong respectively.

Flora


The flora of Hong Kong is diverse in character and surprisingly numerous in species. Many typical species of the Southeast Asian tropical flora are seen here at the limit of their northern distribution range. More than 3,100 species and varieties of vascular plants have been recorded in Hong Kong, approximately 2,100 of which are native and the rest are of exotic origin. Many species of plants in Hong Kong are noteworthy for the beauty or fragrance of their blossoms. Bauhinia blakeana was discovered in 1908 at Pok Fu Lam. It is among the finest of the Bauhinia genus anywhere in the world. The flower of the bauhinia is prominently featured on the flag of Hong Kong. It is widely planted — being propagated by cuttings since its seeds are usually sterile.

Hong Kong Herbarium


AFCD's Hong Kong Herbarium is responsible for the systematic collection, identification and curation of plant specimens of the Hong Kong flora. It plays a significant role in supporting the studies on taxonomy, ecology and conservation of Hong Kong flora. Established in 1878, it houses approximately 37 000 plant specimens and is equipped with a specialised library to support its function.

Conservation of flora


Efforts have been made to conserve rare and endangered plant species. In addition to habitat protection, they are also conserved through the following approaches.

*Species protection: Under the Forests and Countryside Ordinance, damaging plant in any forest or plantation on government land is prohibited. Some rare and attractive species are specifically listed in the Forestry Regulations to control the sale and possession of such listed species as Camellia species, Enkianthus quinqueflorus, Iris speculatrix and Impatiens hongkongensis.

*Active propagation: Various methods such as seed collection, cutting, air layering, etc, have been attempted to propagate rare and endangered plants. Transplantation may also be carried out if their habitats are found to be under threat. Successful examples of active propagation include Keteleeria fortunei, Camellia crapnelliana and Camellia granthamiana.

*Ex-situ conservation: A base for flora conservation has been set up at the Shing Mun Arboretum. About 300 species including some rare species have been propagated and established there for conservation purpose.

Terrestrial mammals


Larger wild mammals are declining in numbers in Hong Kong, mainly because of the increased urbanisation. Civets, leopard cats and Chinese porcupines are seen occasionally at night in the New Territories. Indian muntjac are uncommon but are heard and seen in wooded areas. There are wild boars in some remote areas, occasionally causing damage to crops. Unlike others, rhesus macaques are easily seen in Kam Shan Country Park. Visitors are reminded not to feed these wild animals as uncontrolled feeding has led to unnatural growth of the monkey population and caused nuisances. A feeding ban has been implemented and enforced in the area since July 1999 to help the monkeys revert back to forage natural food in the natural environment. Smaller mammals such as squirrels, the woodland shrew, house shrew and bats are common in rural areas. As of 2005, some 54 species of terrestrial mammals have been recorded in Hong Kong.

Birds


Hong Kong is a major stopover point of Asia’s migration routes for birds. The wide varieties of local habitats including wetlands, grasslands, woodlands, seashores, and s contribute to the diversity of the birds. There are over 450 species of wild birds including residents, winter visitors, passage migrants, and summer visitors recorded in Hong Kong. Some of these are globally endangered species such as Black-faced Spoonbill. About 120 species have been recorded breeding in the territory. The Mai Po Marshes are listed as a restricted area and access is restricted to permit holders. This area of mudflat, mangrove and shrimp ponds is the richest habitat for migratory birds. More than 320 species of birds have been recorded in the area and about 120 of these are rarely seen elsewhere in the territory. The Marshes form part of the 15 km? Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site which was listed in 1995 as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. This area is also one of the participants of the East Asian — Australasian Shorebird Reserve Network.

Amphibians and reptiles


Hong Kong has over 100 species of amphibians and reptiles. Among them, over 40 species are snakes. Most snakes in Hong Kong are harmless and there have been very few cases of known bites by highly venomous snakes. There are nine species of chelonians found in Hong Kong, of which the Green Turtle is of particular interest in that it is the only known species of sea turtles breeding locally. The nesting site of Green Turtles at Sham Wan of Lamma Island was designated a restricted area in 1999 to protect the species during the breeding season. Hong Kong has a total of 23 species of amphibians. Three of them, Hong Kong Cascade Frog, Hong Kong Newt and the endemic Romer's Tree Frog have been listed under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance due to their rarity. A site that supports the largest population of the Romer's Tree Frog — part of Ngong Ping on Lantau Island, has also been designated as SSSI in May 1999.

Insects


Hong Kong has a rich insect fauna. At least 6,784 species has been recorded so far and 700 additional species are expected to be found. There are about 230 butterfly species, including the beautiful and Birdwings . Of over 2,000 moth species recorded, the is outstanding for its large size with wing span up to 30 centimetres, while the is eye-catching for its long hindwing tails. moth species include ''Athetis hongkongensis'', ''Ugia purpurea'', ''Athetis bispurca'' and ''Egira ambigua''. The dragonfly fauna is diverse, with over 110 species recorded, some of which are endemic to Hong Kong. Hong Kong also has 235 species of ants, 17 species of preying mantids, 31 species of cockroaches, 6 species of flea, 78 species of mosquitoes and 124 species of grasshoppers. 4,583 species are known to be plant eating and over 1,000 species are beneficial insects either preying on or existing as parasites over other pests.

Aquatic animals


The marine fauna of Hong Kong is exceptionally diverse. Though primarily tropical, it is an admixture of tropical South China Sea and temperate Chinese forms because of the seasonal fluctuations of warm and cold water and monsoon weather conditions. Of an estimated 1,800 species of fish on the South China continental shelf, clupeoids, croakers and sea breams are the dominant groups in Hong Kong waters. Farther offshore, golden thread, big-eyes and others are also of high value to fishermen. Marine invertebrates are also abundant — ranging from corals, molluscs to crustaceans. There are 84 species of stony corals in Hong Kong. The richest coral communities prevail to the east of Hong Kong where the waters are both sheltered and free from the influence of Pearl River. Marine mammals, Chinese White Dolphin and Finless Porpoise, are resident species and can be found year-round. All cetaceans are protected in Hong Kong under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance. There are more than 120 species of native freshwater fish recorded of which about 30 primary freshwater species spend their entire lives in freshwaters. Of the primary freshwater fish, cyprinids are dominant.

List of country parks & special areas in Hong Kong


Hong Kong Island:
*Aberdeen Country Park
*Lung Fu Shan Country Park
*Pok Fu Lam Country Park
*Shek O Country Park
*Tai Tam Country Park
*Tai Tam Country Park

:
*Kam Shan Country Park

New Territories:
*Clear Water Bay Country Park
*Hong Kong Wetland Park
*Kiu Tsui Country Park
*Lam Tsuen Country Park
*Lion Rock Country Park
*Ma On Shan Country Park
*Pat Sin Leng Country Park
*Plover Cove Country Park
*Plover Cove Country Park
*Sai Kung East Country Park
*Sai Kung West Country Park
*Sai Kung West Country Park
*Shing Mun Country Park
*Tai Lam Country Park
*
*Tai Po Kau Special Area
*Tung Lung Fort Special Area
* Tsiu Hang Special Area
* Ma Shi Chau Special Area
* Lai Chi Wo Special Area
* Hong Kong Wetland Park

Lantau Island:
*Lantau North Country Park
*Lantau South Country Park

Clear Water Bay Country Park

Clear Water Bay Country Park is rural park located in the New Territories of northern Hong Kong. The park is located near the beaches in Clear Water Bay. The 6.15 square kilometre park opened in 1979 with features like:

* High Junk Peak
* Tin Hau Temple in Fat Tong Mun
* High Junk Peak 344 m
* Clear Water Bay Beach
* Clear Water Bay Tree Walk
* Clear Water Bay Golf Course

There is a designated hiking trail which begins on Clear Water Bay Road near Tseung Kwan O and ends near the Clearwater Bay golf course.

Cape D'Aguilar Marine Reserve

Cape D'Aguilar Marine Reserve, designated in July 1996, is the only Marine Reserve in Hong Kong. It is located at the far south east corner of Hong Kong Island and extends to around 20 hectares of rocky coastline. It was designated to protect the rocky shores and the subtidal habitats in the area.

Cape D'Aguilar Marine Reserve is managed by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department with on-site assistance from the Swire Institute of Marine Science, a research faculty of the University of Hong Kong.

History


In 1991, the area was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest by the Government. In 1996, it became the first and only Marine Reserve in Hong Kong.

Rules in the reserve


Fishing, swimming, diving and collecting organisms are strictly prohibited in the marine reserve.

It is required to apply for a permit from AFCD for any research activity conducted.