A field and GIS-based study was conducted in the Yangtze River mainstem and major tributaries from August 2015 to January 2016. This study was designed to investigate the current major anthropogenic stressors, climate change, and potential ecological and environmental challenges faced by the Yangtze mainstem and major tributaries. Field investigations were conducted in 6 regions of the Yangtze River Basin by recording anthropogenic stressors, river flow, riparian vegetation, bank stability and protection, water quality condition, and climate. In the laboratory, GIS tools were used to characterize major land use/land cover in each region and supplement field investigations.
Results/Conclusions
The current study showed: (1) both anthropogenic stressors and climate change are affecting the Yangtze mainstem and major tributaries; (2) the Qinghai-Tibet Headwater region is experiencing the least anthropogenic stress except few extensive animal production; (3) the Jinsha Upper Reach-Yichang region is experiencing heavy anthropogenic stress such as cascading dams at both the mainstem and major tributaries, and mineral mining; (4) the Middle Reach-Hanjiang region is experiencing moderately anthropogenic stress, mainly cropland agriculture and water diversion; (5) both the Dongtinghu Lake region and Poyanghu Lake region are experiencing intensive sand mining; (6) The Lower Reach-Shanghai region is experiencing intensive industry, urbanization, sand mining, and navigation activities; (7) Increased ice/snow melting is affecting the Qinghai-Tibet Headwater region while the atmospheric pollutants are primarily affecting the rest of the basin. Basin-wide ecological and environmental strategies were discussed and suggested.