A New Roadmap for the Long-Term Protection of China’s Chishui River

The Chishui River, the only major dam-free first-order tributary of the upper Yangtze River, flows through Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan provinces. Home to more than 150 native fish species, including 45 species endemic to the upper Yangtze, it serves as a critical refuge for freshwater biodiversity and an important demonstration site for Yangtze River conservation.

As a priority freshwater conservation landscape, the Chishui River has benefited from TNC's long-standing engagement. Over the years, TNC has helped identify key conservation areas, demonstrate nature-based "step-pool" restoration techniques to rebuild fish habitat, facilitate international knowledge exchange through the Yangtze-Mississippi Green Partnership and support collaborative governance platforms involving research institutions and provincial and local authorities.

Significant progress has been achieved through intensive conservation efforts from 2020 to 2025. During this period, 342 small hydropower stations were phased out and 300 dams removed. River network connectivity increased from 43.5% to 80.1%, reconnecting approximately 8,300 kilometers of tributaries. Monitoring data also show fish diversity increasing from 116 to 130 recorded species, alongside signs of recovery among flagship species such as the Yangtze sturgeon, Chinese sucker and rock carp.

Despite these conservation gains, challenges remain. The recovery of certain rare endemic fish continues to be slow; water quality pressure persists in parts of the watershed, and habitat restoration efforts require stronger long-term effectiveness. In addition, cross-jurisdictional coordination can be further strengthened, while sustainable financing mechanisms are needed to support conservation over the long term.

Looking ahead, the new plan expands the focus from individual fish species to the health of the entire freshwater ecosystem. Conservation efforts will extend beyond river channels to encompass the broader land-water systems that sustain watershed resilience. Digital technologies will also be integrated into watershed management to improve decision-making and strengthen climate resilience.

Lessons learned from the Chishui River, including approaches to interprovincial collaboration, hydropower removal and integrated watershed governance, are expected to provide valuable insights for freshwater conservation efforts across the Yangtze River Basin and beyond.