Core Viewpoint - The Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province has made significant progress in the ecological protection and governance of Erhai Lake, with the introduction of the "Erhai Index" to scientifically evaluate and guide conservation efforts [1][4][6]. Group 1: Ecological Protection Measures - The "Erhai Index" consists of eight evaluation indicators across four dimensions: cleanliness, clarity, ecology, and sharing, providing a comprehensive assessment of the lake's ecological protection [4][8]. - The ecological regulation of fish species, particularly targeting invasive species and optimizing the fish population structure, is a key component of the restoration efforts [2][5]. - Continuous investment in ecological protection has been substantial, with approximately 47.2 billion yuan allocated since the 13th Five-Year Plan, leading to the construction of sewage treatment facilities and the implementation of pollution control measures [6][10]. Group 2: Monitoring and Data Utilization - A sophisticated monitoring network, termed "Digital Erhai," has been established, featuring 428 automatic monitoring stations that provide real-time data on water quality and quantity [5][6]. - The platform enables quick responses to pollution incidents, exemplified by a rapid reaction to a sewage leak in 2022, showcasing the effectiveness of the monitoring system [6][10]. - The integration of data from 26 departments enhances collaborative efforts in ecological protection and management [5][6]. Group 3: Economic and Social Impact - The ecological improvements have led to a surge in tourism, with Dali receiving 98.21 million visitors and generating 120.8 billion yuan in tourism revenue in the first three quarters of the year, reflecting a 19% increase [9][10]. - The establishment of an ecological compensation mechanism has facilitated financial support for pollution control, benefiting both upstream and downstream communities [10]. - Local communities are increasingly engaged in tourism-related activities, with the number of homestays in Gusheng Village growing from a few to over 100 in five years, indicating a shift towards sustainable economic practices [10].

Group 1 - Erhai Lake is a crucial natural reserve and drinking water source for Dali City, Yunnan Province, playing multiple roles in ecological protection, tourism, urban water supply, climate regulation, and biodiversity maintenance [1] - The protection of Erhai Lake is a complex and systematic project requiring the participation of government, enterprises, and the public, emphasizing the need for diverse stakeholders including green enterprises, environmental organizations, and research institutions [1] Group 2 - The Dali government has implemented various protective measures such as "Three Retirements and Three Returns," "Six Major Projects," "Seven Major Actions," and "Eight Major Battles," leading to improvements in water quality and ecological environment around Erhai Lake [2] - A local environmental technology company focuses on ecological protection and resource recycling, processing nearly 2000 tons of organic waste daily, which contributes significantly to the protection of Erhai Lake and increases income for surrounding farmers [2] Group 3 - Local communities around Erhai Lake actively participate in its protection by establishing rules and regulations through cultural practices, ensuring sustainable fishing and resource use [3] - The community enforces traditional practices such as prohibiting the use of small fishing nets and toxic methods, which helps maintain the ecological balance and supports the lake's recovery [3] Group 4 - Comprehensive ecological protection efforts have led to the gradual restoration of the Erhai Lake ecosystem, highlighting the interdependence between humans and lakes, and the importance of nurturing nature for sustainable ecological benefits [4]