Gokseong-gun Breaks Ground on Restoration Project for Damaged Seomjingang Riparian Wetlands

Expectations for Revitalizing Local Economy through Restoration of Damaged Wetlands in Seomjingang River Basin

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Heo Seon-sik] Gokseong-gun, Jeollanam-do (Governor Yoo Geun-gi) announced on the 24th that it is actively promoting the main construction of the restoration project for the damaged Seomjin River floodplain wetland.

Since 2019, Gokseong-gun has been conducting basic and detailed design services and compensating for acquired land to promote the restoration project of the damaged Seomjin River floodplain wetland. After completing the preparation process, the main construction officially began on May 7th.

The main construction is planned to be completed in 2023 and will be carried out over two years with a total budget of 10 billion KRW. Facilities such as a visitor center linked to the Seomjin River floodplain wetland, an observatory, experience and observation wetlands, birdwatching towers, and ecological play spaces will be established. Gokseong-gun expects that upon completion, the project will not only restore the damaged wetland but also invigorate the local economy due to increased visits by ecological tourists.

The Seomjin River floodplain wetland was designated as a national protected area by the Ministry of Environment in November 2016, recognizing its conservation value. Within the protected area, 655 species of diverse organisms inhabit. Notably, 17 endemic species of the Korean Peninsula reside here, which is known to be the highest number among river wetlands. Additionally, seven endangered species such as the white-tailed eagle, otter, leopard cat, and Chinese pond turtle have been discovered. Among photographers, it has become famous as the "Mureungdowon of the Seomjin River" due to the tranquil dawn mist rising gently.

A Gokseong-gun official stated, “We will strive to restore the damaged Seomjin River floodplain wetland to conserve the ecosystem and promote sustainable use. We hope residents will take an interest in the floodplain wetland and actively cooperate with the project’s promotion.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.