A spectacular aerial display of Baikal teals over the Geum River. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
GUNSAN, Sept. 3 (Korea Bizwire) — The city of Gunsan in North Jeolla Province said Monday it will begin accepting applications from local farmers to join its 2025 Ecosystem Service Payment Program, designed to secure food and habitat for migratory birds that flock to the Geum River and Mangyeong River estuaries each winter.
Under the scheme, participating farms receive compensation for adopting practices that provide grain and resting grounds for birds. Two options are available: leaving rice straw in fields after harvest, cut into 10–15 centimeters and spread evenly, or planting winter crops such as barley, oats and wheat.
The designated areas include Sipjadeul in Napo for rice straw preservation and nine towns and districts along the Mangyeong River for winter crop cultivation. Farmers may apply in person at their local administrative welfare centers between August 8–26 for the rice straw option and November 3–28 for barley planting. Payment rates will be set early next year.
“This program plays a vital role in protecting migratory birds while enhancing ecological diversity and resilience,” said Kim Hyun-sook, head of the city’s climate and environment division, urging strong participation from local farmers.
The initiative highlights Gunsan’s growing effort to balance agricultural practices with conservation as part of its broader climate and environmental agenda.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
