Water resource environment of the Heihe river basin, China

Changes in development and use of water resources over the last 30 years have led to significant environmental and hydrological degradation of the River Heihe basin in China. Water discharge of the lower reaches has been seriously compromised and more than 30 tributaries and terminal takes have dried up. The water output of springs has dropped significantly. Also water quality problems have been observed, in both surface waters and groundwater. Too many people using too much water inefficiently, leading to depletion of groundwater, drying up of lakes, desertification. Action is needed.