EditorialSite patrols a good start for better protection of Hong Kong’s countryside

Enforcement action at country parks and campsites signals a turning point from the previous approach

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A campsite at Ham Tin Wan in Sai Kung is seen during the Easter holiday. Photo: Facebook/AFCD

Published: 6:45am, 9 Apr 2026

Hong Kong’s authorities are finally getting serious about enforcement against reckless behaviour threatening our precious countryside. While there is no shortage of laws for protection in this respect, our natural assets are left at the mercy of visitors with little awareness of wildlife conservation or respect for the environment.

The 18 enforcement actions taken at Sai Kung East Country Park over the first four days of the Easter break may appear too little, too late, but they signal a turning point from the previous approach. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department deployed about 90 members of staff each day to patrol popular sites, including the ecologically sensitive Sharp Island and Shui Hau on Lantau.

Despite the rainy weather, a daily average of 1,400 people still flocked to East Dam in Sai Kung, a favourite destination for mainland visitors. The Lantau site, a vital habitat for horseshoe crabs, drew 160 visitors daily, with 68 verbal warnings issued over the four-day period. The department also logged about 180 tents at Ham Tin Wan and another 70 at Sai Wan each night. Sharp Island welcomed about 580 visitors per day, with 350 verbal warnings to visitors over the same period.

We trust the authorities will continue to keep the situation under control, especially as the countryside becomes even more popular in summer. Experiences show there has been insufficient public education and enforcement, resulting in littering, illegal camping and disturbance to wildlife as visitors look for hidden gems under the influence of social media.

Better management and enforcement are needed to instil greater awareness and responsibility among visitors. The longer-term management plan under consideration must be accelerated. The department is exploring options such as a reservation system or charging fees for campsites. The proposed measures can help regulate visitor numbers and promote more responsible use of such facilities. They should be in place sooner rather than later to strike the right balance between public enjoyment and conservation.

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Enforcement action at country parks and campsites signals a turning point from the previous approach

Enforcement action at country parks and campsites signals a turning point from the previous approach