Starting around Jan 1, the fish in the Oujiang River system began to migrate with the fluctuation of water temperature to find a more favorable living environment. Their migration this year has been much smoother, thanks in large part to significant adjustments and upgrades to the weirs in Lishui, Zhejiang province.

Oujiang River is known as the "mother river" of Lishui. Since June 2021, the city has invested 180 million yuan ($25.14 million) in the ecological transformation of weirs in Oujiang River system.

"The transformation of the weirs is not just to remove or rebuild directly, but to adapt to local conditions," explained Li Miaoyan, a staff member in the river and lake management center of the city's Bureau of Water Resources. The transformation mainly features three ways: demolition, restoration and reconstruction.

The transformation of 574 weirs has been completed, and the ensuing inspections wrapped up in December 2023. Only 10 weirs were removed, while the rest underwent restoration and reconstruction.

An official from the river and lake management center stated, "After the transformation, fish migration has significantly increased."

In addition to better facilitating fish migration, the weirs have also brought great benefits to nearby villages and residents.

The Biaoxi Weir in Jingning She autonomous county of Lishui previously experienced low flow rates in the downstream river during the dry season, creating a bare riverbed out of harmony with the mountainous landscape.

Following the transformation efforts, a consistent water flow is maintained year round, and various stream fish often leap out of the water, attracting egrets. This pleasant scene has turned the area into a popular attraction.

Today, the ecological weirs in the Oujiang River system have evolved into a beautiful landscape bordered by clear waters and lush mountains, painting a charming ecological picture in Lishui.