Brief Introduction
The Country Parks Ordinance was enacted in
August 1976. In the past quarter of the
century, the Country Parks system has been
well developed, thus successfully performing
its functions in nature conservation,
outdoor recreation and countryside
education. Despite its development pressure,
Hong Kong has set aside about forty percent
of its land resources to be protected areas
under the Country Parks Ordinance. This is a
tremendous achievement in such a highly
populated place as Hong Kong.
The
history of the Hong Kong Country Parks, as
outlined in Part I of this book, indicates
that the success of the programme has
depended on timely designation, strong
government commitment, public support and
proper management. In 2001, there were over
11 million visitors to Country Parks and
about 250,000 citizens took part in our
education programmes. Country Parks and
Special Areas are well protected and
maintained with a vision of creating "an
island of stability in the storm of change"
for the present and future generations.
