Impacts of Middle-Route Project of Water Transfer from the South to the North on Land Resource in Hubei Province

Planners involved in the middle-route project of water transfer from the south of China to the north are hoping to solve drastic water shortage problems in the north. This project is expected to have a strong influence on land use patterns in Hubei Province. Evidence from a recent study found that lands to be inundated by the project are well-developed and productive. Large numbers of inhabitants in the region will need to relocate. Such relocation will place strong social and economic burdens on emigrants. In addition, increased availability of water resources is expected to result in substantial population increases. Arguments are presented favoring resettlement of emigrants to areas far distant from their original homes. Strategies for reducing losses of agricultural potential on valuable lands are considered. (in Chinese, English abstract)