Efforts for desert spring eco-protection in northwest China

Local authorities in Dunhuang City of northwest China’s Gansu Province have managed to protect a rare desert-spring landscape by optimizing water resource utilization and taking accurate restoration and protection measures. The Crescent Spring, a crescent-shaped lake surrounded by giant sand dunes, is located at the Mingsha Mountain, or the Singing Sand Mountain, in Dunhuang.

According to ancient historical documents, the dunes and the lake have coexisted for at least 2,000 years. The sand has never moved into the spring, and the water has always kept a sweet and crystal clear texture, which has made it a world-renowned scenic spot. The elevation of Crescent Spring is lower than its surrounding water level and has a rich source of groundwater or water recharge. Local authorities made great efforts to sustain the spring in the desert.