Medog County, situated in China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, stands out as one of the counties with the highest orchid species conservation and diversity in the country.
Medog County, situated in China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, stands out as one of the counties with the highest orchid species conservation and diversity in the country.
Its unique vertical elevation, spanning various climate and vegetation zones, has fostered diverse flora and fauna, creating ideal conditions for orchid growth. Over the past decade, Medog County has emerged as a trailblazer in safeguarding its rich orchid resources.
To further advance orchid conservation and promote the high-quality development of the orchid industry, Medog County has enlisted the collaboration of 15 research institutes and universities from across the nation. Additionally, the central government has allocated 1.5 million yuan (approximately $204,957) to establish a seed collection and cultivation base for rare and endangered orchid species in Medog County.
Surveys conducted by the conservation center indicate that many orchids are now being artificially cultivated, with local residents actively engaged in growing wild orchids in their home gardens. Consequently, the local government has encouraged villagers to reintroduce their rare orchid species into the wild, thereby enriching the local ecology.
Tashi Chophel, a forest ranger, mentioned, “We have returned more than 1,000 orchids to nature. People used to bring wild orchids back home and didn’t know what was wrong with them. After our forestry department worked with scientific organizations and encouraged them to release those orchids to the natural habitat, they have taken an active part in this task.”
Liu Zhen, deputy director of the local forestry department, added, “After the release, we established a management mechanism. We collaborated with research institutions for long-term monitoring and dedicated forest rangers are responsible for daily management and patrols. We have built two orchid conservation demonstration communities, one is Gelin Village and the other is Yaren Village.”
The allure of orchids, combined with the presence of tea plantations, has attracted a growing number of tourists to Gelin Village, providing them the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural splendors of the forest.
Every household in the village maintains a small garden, and six homestays have been established to accommodate visitors. Orchids are becoming a significant symbol of Medog County’s progress in eco-wellness, scientific exploration, and rural tourism.
Tsomo, a homestay owner, expressed, “My family released some 50 orchids back into the forest, which allows them to return to nature and gives visitors the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature. We are all willing and eager to release more orchids back into the forest.”
Medog County’s steadfast commitment to orchid conservation and the advancement of the orchid industry underscores its dedication to preserving its natural heritage. Through ongoing research and collaborative endeavors, Medog County is poised to emerge as a premier destination for orchid enthusiasts, researchers, and nature enthusiasts alike.