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As the Growing Mai Po (GMP) project manager, Maggie leads the work to integrate innovative smart technologies with traditional farming techniques to restore the rice paddy ecosystem. In this Q&A, she shares her insights on innovative ideas and adaptive strategies driving the restoration of the wetlands.

How does the project use technology to sustain the wetland ecology sustainability and encourage climate change adaptation?

The Mai Po wetlands face challenges from extreme weather and a variable climate. We use smart technology to remotely monitor and manage water levels and other environmental conditions. The system includes smart pumps, water level sensors, solar panels, water quality monitoring devices, and surveillance cameras. These components work together through a networked control system to automatically adjust water levels, ensuring optimal conditions for our diverse wetland habitats.

In a pioneering partnership with the Hong Kong Observatory and local universities, we’ve deployed an IoT weather station using the Observatory’s G-WIN technology that is linked to the Community Weather Information Network (CO-WIN). This first-in-Hong Kong innovation provides precise weather data that feeds directly into the water management system, helping the wetlands adapt to our changing climate.

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When restoring rice paddies, how do you balance conserving local intangible cultural heritage with modern ecological protection?

Restoring Mai Po’s traditional tidal shrimp ponds (gei wai) requires honouring cultural heritage and meeting ecological targets. We’ve selected several local rice varieties for cultivation and to preserve genetic diversity and cultural relevance. These include the freshwater “Mei Yeung Jim” and “Fa Yiu Zai” varieties, and a less-common brackish water type called “Ham Mun”.

We also adopt dual growing seasons – an early season in spring/summer and a late season in summer/autumn. This staggered cultivation strategy ensures that migratory birds like the Yellow-breasted bunting have access to food and habitat year-round. Our observations have shown that bird preferences are related to the physical structure of rice plants – upright freshwater rice plants are preferred by perching birds like buntings, while drooping brackish rice attracts ground feeders like White-breasted waterhens. We can actually tailor our planting to foster biodiversity!

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How do you assess and monitor the project’s impact on endangered birds and wetland biodiversity?

We conduct bird surveys twice a month and have recorded 39 bird species, including the target Yellow-breasted bunting. Partnering with the Hong Kong Bird Ringing Group, we ringed 97 birds last growing season to track populations and movements. These included ten Yellow-breasted buntings and four Greater painted-snipes, each one a testament to the GMP’s positive impact.

Monthly crop height measurements guide adaptive management. Typhoons can damage crops, but planting diverse varieties builds ecosystem resilience. For example, choosing more storm-resistant rice species to ensure birds and insects have shelter during adverse weather.  

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Are collaborations helping the GMP?

Our success is anchored in strong partnerships with academia and local experts. Professor Lam Hon-Ming from The Chinese University of Hong Kong advises us on seeds and research, while local farmers share practical knowledge of nursery cultivation and planting. This blend of science and tradition enhances ecological and agricultural outcomes.

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How does the project promote public education and community engagement in wetland protection?

We use a multi-channel approach to raise awareness: educational panels near rice fields, guided school tours that include rice cultivation experiences, and Nature School programmes for families that cover the full farming cycle from planting to harvest. We also offer on-site corporate farming experiences. These initiatives deepen public connections to wetlands and create a conservation-conscious community.

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What are the project’s main challenges?

Rice paddy restoration is a complex process that is hindered by multiple factors such as weather, soil quality, intricate water management needs and many more. Our team conducts frequent monitoring and experimentation, and makes constant adaptive adjustments. We hope to gain more experience in the process and looking forward to sharing even more positive results as we move the GMP forward!

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Enthusiastic volunteers celebrate a successful harvest in December 2024. Over 30 bird species have been recorded at the rice fields since the seedlings were first planted – evidence of the project’s success in creating habitats for our avian friends!

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Our colleagues working hard in contributing their efforts during a rice transplantation session in July 2024

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Collateral efforts – Our local farmer works with closely our colleagues with sowing seeds for the late season crop in early August, 2025.

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The ambitious goals of the GMP: Recreate rare habitats for globally endangered wildlife and develop a proactive, viable management model using smart hydrology management. This is Gei wai #16B and its rice paddies.

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A rice paddy field in late August 2024.

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This innovative smart hydrology system aims to ensure optimal conditions for diverse wetland habitats and serve as a viable case study for smart wetland management.

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Since the first GMP seedlings were planted, several species have been recorded, including the endangered Yellow-breasted bunting, the Greater painted snipe, a species of local concern, and the White-breasted waterhen.

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Thanks to the support of the Lee Hysan Foundation (LHF), our strategic partner and sponsor, the GMP project is underway. Established in Hong Kong over five decades ago, LHF drives transformative social impact for a better Hong Kong. We invited the Foundation’s president, Cecilia Ho, to share her insight on their biodiversity conservation vision.

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Why did you choose to support Growing Mai Po?

“Environment” is one of LHF’s five key focus areas. This internationally-significant wetland is a habitat for endangered species and a crucial stopover site for migratory birds. WWF-Hong Kong’s strategy to manage the Mai Po Wetlands through an intelligent water-level management system aligns with the Foundation’s funding direction. Our support will strengthen resilience against climate change while providing a model for future conservation efforts in the Northern Metropolis development.

Building on this ecological foundation, we’re also helping to revitalise Mai Po’s rich cultural heritage through traditional rice cultivation. This approach honours the area’s history while recreating vital habitats for endangered species. To ensure success, we’ve engaged Professor Lam Hon-Ming, an internationally-renowned agricultural expert, to advise on sustainable rice cultivation techniques.

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What role do you think businesses should play in promoting environmental protection?

Businesses must serve as catalysts for environmental change. First, we need to “do more”, by strategically investing in ecosystem transformation. At LHF, we support a community recycling initiative with two Hong Kong Housing Society estates, creating volunteer platforms that help residents develop sustainable waste habits. Second, we must “do better”. LHF partners with a social enterprise to recruit elderly cardboard collectors, providing a safer working environment and stable income. Students join these elders as they sort plastics, fostering intergenerational connections. These dual approaches demonstrate how businesses can create meaningful environmental impacts while addressing social challenges.

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Do you have any suggestions for future environmental corporate community collaborations?

We take a “4Cs” approach to corporate-community collaboration. We believe that companies must Co-create solutions with diverse organisations; Connect resources and talent for mutual benefit; Collaborate across sectors to integrate different perspectives; and Co-fund initiatives by bringing together like-minded funders to amplify impact. This framework fosters genuine partnerships where businesses do more than support, they actively shape sustainable development alongside communities, creating lasting environmental and social value.

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Guided by WWF-Hong Kong senior leadership, LHF project team conducts a site walk at Mai Po Nature Reserve in early 2025. The team appreciated the beautiful spectacle of bird migration from a bird hide (below), and strolled along the boardwalk, exploring deep into the mangrove forest.

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After discussing project updates, LHF project team received festive decorations made from rice straw collected from a paddy, symbolising its importance to Hong Kong’s local heritage.

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Mai Po, the literal translation of which is “rice harbour”, is full of reflections from Hong Kong’s rich agricultural past. But today, re-introducing native rice is a challenging prospect. Agricultural scientist Professor Lam Hon-Ming, our project advisor, shares his views on revitalising rice farming and returning indigenous varieties to their ancestral wetlands.

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How does restoring local rice cultivation in Hong Kong help preserve agricultural heritage and traditional knowledge and promote sustainable agriculture?

Bringing local rice cultivation back in Hong Kong means preserving our rich agricultural heritage and ensuring future sustainable food production. Historically, rice farming occupied up to 80% of Hong Kong’s arable land. Extensively cultivated, it formed the cultural backbone of rural communities, particularly in the New Territories. Traditional farming practices and locally-adapted seeds embody generations of practical knowledge and community identity.

Despite significant pressures from urban development, farmland loss and the decline of native rice varieties that have adapted to local conditions, it is culturally and ecologically important to revive rice cultivation. Although primarily a heritage-focused endeavour, supporting this effort symbolises resilience, biodiversity preservation and a commitment to sustainable agriculture.

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Given these challenges, how do environmental pressures and resource constraints influence the choice of rice varieties?

The main selection priorities are adaptability to the local soils and climate, and resilience to environmental stresses. Since most indigenous varieties have been lost already, seeds are sourced from germplasm banks and neighbouring regions – but only those suited to Hong Kong’s conditions are chosen. Constraints like limited arable land and degraded soils restrict viable options, necessitating a focus on established, adaptable varieties rather than experimental breeds. This practical approach supports sustainable small-scale farming, aligns with green agriculture and carbon reduction goals, and ensures that rice cultivation remains viable.

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How can rice cultivation support wetland conservation in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong’s wetlands are valuable ecological habitats, particularly for waterbirds. Rice cultivation helps advance numerous conservation objectives. Cultivating rice in wetlands supports ecosystem food chains, promotes biodiversity and enhances wetland management work.

Choosing rice varieties suitable for wetland farming involves balancing agricultural productivity and ecological sensitivity. Challenges include ensuring that crop growth does not disrupt habitat quality, and making sure chosen varieties can adapt to unique hydrological conditions. This project highlights the potential of environmentally-conscious rice farming as a tool for wetland conservation, strengthening biodiversity while preserving agricultural heritage in these fragile ecosystems.

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Professor Lam inspecting rice crop seeds

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Professor Lam visiting Sai Wan for the area’s local rice cultivation project

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Local brackish rice seeds – “Ham Moon”

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Freshwater rice seeds – “Mei Yeung Jim”

Freshwater rice seeds – local species – “Fa Yiu Tsai”

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Mai Po’s rice paddy fields provide vital feeding and resting sites for migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. To monitor how these wetlands support bird populations and guide conservation efforts, we use bird ringing to track individual movements and biological information, e.g. age, sex, body fat, etc. Gary Chow, Chairman of Hong Kong Bird Research Institute (HKBRI), talks about the critical role bird ringers play in the project.

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Bird ringing: a critical conservation tool
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Bird ringing generally involves placing uniquely numbered metal bands on birds’ legs to track migration patterns. Bird ringing experts undergo rigorous training and are granted a ringing permit from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, ensuring bird welfare and safety. Data collected at strategic locations during migratory periods and exchanged information among bird ringing groups in other places can support vital conservation research and wildlife management decisions.

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How does bird ringing data enhance the effectiveness of the GMP project?

Long-term ringing data gives vital insights into migration strategies and habitat use. These findings inform adaptive conservation measures, ensuring Mai Po’s paddy fields can serve as a stopover site providing suitable habitat and food sources for the targeted species. This evidence-based approach raises management standards locally and regionally, shaping policies that secure the future of birds and their wetland habitats.

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Have any iconic migratory bird species been recorded through the GMP’s bird ringing activities?

Yes! We have documented several remarkable migratory species, notably the Greater painted snipe, with medium threat of local extinction, and the critically endangered Yellow-breasted bunting. These species depend on our paddy fields – they are an essential stopover site during long migratory journeys. The carefully-managed freshwater habitats and rice paddies offer rich feeding and resting grounds, supporting buntings, snipes, and many other migratory species. Their consistent presence affirms the ecological value of actively managed habitats.

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How does bird ringing improve our understanding of the impact of rice cultivation on bird ecology?

Bird ringing is a fundamental tool that lets us track individual birds and understand their migration patterns, population trends and survival rates. By analysing ringing data, we can assess how conservation-focused rice farming benefits migratory species. For example, timing the rice harvest to align with peak migration ensures plentiful food resources. These findings help us refine habitat management and reinforce the importance of sustainable agriculture. Ringing also promotes international collaboration, since sharing records contributes to the protection of migratory routes across borders.

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What special considerations are required for bird ringing in paddy fields?

Safety and accuracy are paramount. All bird ringers receive rigorous training and are granted a permit from Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for bird ringing. Birds are gently handled and swiftly processed: standard biometric data (e.g., weight and wing length) are collected, and each bird is fitted with a lightweight, uniquely numbered ring before being quickly released. We closely follow stringent protocols to minimise stress, always placing bird welfare at the forefront of our fieldwork.

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Bird ringers carefully extracting the birds trapped by the mist nets (nets made specially for bird ringing) and, shortly afterwards, place a small ring on their legs for individual identification and monitoring.

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Bird ringers photographing the Scaly-breasted munia, ringed in a GMP survey on weekly-basis during the dry season.

The concept of “sustainable parenting” merges the joy of raising children with environmental stewardship, helping to instil life-long ecological values. By making conscious choices and leading by example, parents can nurture children who naturally respect and protect our planet. Taking kids on a rice farming experience blends environmental education and family bonding with a healthy outdoor activity. We invited Shion, founder of the popular parenting social media page “MeeliMami Parenting” to share her family’s adventures with rice farming and explore the intersection of parenting and sustainability.

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“Walking through rice paddies is no easy feat – it’s like stepping into a natural ‘ball pit’, where every step is a challenge; except that falling in a rice paddy might leave you covered in mud – undoubtedly an exciting experience for adults and children alike. While children initially appear clumsy and need to hold their parents’ hands when entering a field, they quickly adapt and are soon walking freely and pulling weeds from all around.

When caring for young rice seedlings, parents are often more anxious than their kids, as the little ones don’t yet understand that a single misstep could break or uproot the growing seedlings, wasting all the previous planting and cultivation efforts.

Habitat diversity is crucial for ecological conservation. If we can invest resources in restoring farming to certain countryside areas, we can provide food and shelter for wildlife and teach children the “farm-to-table” process through hands-on agricultural experiences that cultivate an appreciation for food.

A short reflection: Parents can choose outdoor activities according to their own and their children’s preferences. Such activities enhance family communication, reduce screen time and deepen understanding of each other’s personalities and interests by completing tasks together.

As long as children don’t resist too much, parents should encourage them to connect more with the natural world and appreciate the wonders of nature. This helps relieve stress, and nurtures gratitude, observational skills and empathy toward people and the environment – contributing enormously towards their moral development.

Bounded by high-rises makes it easy to overlook natural beauty and even become accustomed to pollution and environmental destruction. But if we guide children to explore nature from an early age through sensory experiences and field trips, protecting our precious natural world will become second nature to them.

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Family farming fun: By participating in rice paddy experiences embedded in our education tours and “Nature School” programmes, parents and kids can gain hands-on experience with practical farming while nurturing their love for nature.

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Learning by practice – Our little nature enthusiast Elly helps with paddy field maintenance

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Elly assists Maggie as she measures the height of rice seedlings and records field data