Program: The Nature Conservancy - Pak Nai Field Trip and Habitat Management Activity
Eligibility: Age 12 - 18
Quota: 20
Date & Time: 12 Apr, 2025 15:00 - 18:00
Duration: 3 Hours
Learning Objectives:
Overharvesting and coastal development have destroyed much of Hong Kong's shellfish reefs, degrading local marine environments and jeopardizing livelihoods. Along with our partners, TNC has established two pilot reefs, in Lau Fau Shan and in Tolo Harbour, to monitor their impact on biodiversity, establish a baseline of local oyster habitats and biodiversity and study the feasibility for new growth to bring back Hong Kong’s shellfish reefs at scale.
The now-abandoned oyster farms were built following a traditional method of planting concrete poles in concentrated rows where oysters can settle to and grow on. However, these farms have been abandoned for ten years and are no longer in use. To restore Pak Nai's natural shorelines, we will remove these poles and reconfigure them into more natural reefs. This will restore habitat for species to forage and increase biodiversity on the mudflat. Through out the field trip you are invited to explore the nature of Pak Nai and commit habitat management work to know about TNC conservation works in Hong Kong and offer community service by restoring the shellfish reefs.