Wild birds fly across the river running through Haiyong town, Haimen district, Nantong, Jiangsu province. [Photo/ntfabu.com] 

In the spring, flocks of wild ducks dive, chase, and soar on the Shahe River running through Xincun village in Haiyong town, Haimen district, Nantong, Jiangsu province, creating a mesmerizing sight.

The 15-kilometer-river, nestled alongside the northern branch of the Yangtze River, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, abundant aquatic life, and various wild bird species including mallards, common moorhens, egrets, and wild geese.

These thriving ecological conditions are largely attributed to a series of proactive measures undertaken by local authorities, including the closure of all industrial polluting enterprises, the creation of leisure trails, pavilions, and parks to enhance the living environment, and the expansion of green spaces.

Presently, the town boasts nearly 10,000 mu (666.67 hectares) of wetlands and tidal flats, with a green coverage exceeding 40 percent and an ecological river coverage rate surpassing 90 percent.