Gokseong-gun Begins Restoration Project for Damaged Seomjingang Riparian Wetlands

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Heo Seon-sik] Gokseong-gun, Jeollanam-do (Governor Yoo Geun-gi) announced that it held a groundbreaking ceremony for the restoration project of the damaged Seomjin River Chimshil Wetland on the 23rd.

The Seomjin River Chimshil Wetland is known as a treasure trove of the Seomjin River ecosystem, home to 655 species including 17 native Korean species and 7 endangered species. It is also nicknamed the "Mureungdowon of Seomjin River" among photographers for its scenery where water mist and green aquatic plants harmonize. The Ministry of Environment recognized the value of the Chimshil Wetland and designated it as a national protected wetland in November 2016.

The restoration project for the damaged Chimshil Wetland is being carried out with a total budget of 16 billion KRW and is scheduled to continue until 2022. The main focus is to restore the wetland that was damaged due to exposure to various pollutants and partial use as farmland in the past. Additionally, an ecological education promotion center, ecological playground, artificial wetland, and walking trails will be developed to raise awareness of the importance of environment and ecology.

The groundbreaking ceremony held at the Chimshil Wetland Yongmujeong area was attended by about 150 people including Gokseong-gun Governor Yoo Geun-gi, county council members, environmental groups, and residents of Ogok-myeon. During the ceremony, the progress of the project was reported to the attendees, and a first shovel ceremony marking the start of construction was conducted.

After completion, the developed space will be used for visitor experience activities, residents’ resting areas, and community spaces. Furthermore, it is expected that the local economy will be revitalized if it establishes itself as a hub for eco-tourism through various promotional activities.

A county official stated, “We will protect the Chimshil Wetland from external threats that endanger the environment and nurture the vitality of the wetland to become healthier.”