* Weishan Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northern China, is also a hub of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal -- a world heritage site. However, local traditional industries used to cause serious pollution in the lake.

* In contrast to the overdeveloped fishery in the past, the local government has developed a new model of ecological fish farming, which is also used to develop the rural tourism.

* Weishan Lake now covers an area of 1,266 square km with excellent water quality, as the local government practices the concept of "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets," and promotes the high-quality development of fisheries.

A villager harvests lotus roots near Weishan Lake in Weishan County, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 24, 2022. (Xinhua/Xu Suhui)

JINAN, Sept. 25  -- Weishan Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northern China and a hub of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal -- a world heritage site. However, local traditional industries used to cause serious pollution in the lake.

The heavy pollution was a wake-up call to the locals -- a stark reminder that natural resources should be cherished and used in a more sustainable way.

Today, Weishan Lake in east China's Shandong Province, has become vibrant and charming again.