Thinking of what family activity to do this weekend? What about bringing some bread to feed fish and chickens at your local park? NO! Did you know there is up to a $10,000 fine for anyone caught feeding wildlife anywhere in Singapore? Here is a cheaper and better way to mix fun and learning for your little ones that do not harm the environment!

Figure 1: Park Rangers issuing out fines for feeding fish in Bishan AMK Park (Photo Credit: Ariel Ong).

Bishan AMK Park, filled with scenic greenery and beautiful waterscapes was formally a straight concrete canal recently turned into a luscious naturalised river that serves both practical and recreational purposes. The restoration project has helped reduce flooding downstream and has increased biodiversity by 30%! The increased biodiversity includes fishes, birds and even 22 species of dragonfly, adding to the unique beauty of Bishan AMK Park.

Figure 2: Ardea cinerea (common name: Grey Heron) standing stationary waiting for prey (Photo Credit: Ariel Ong).

On my NUS GE3255 Aquatic, riparian and coastal systems in September 2023 we explored this naturalised river. Restoration was not an easy feat, and precautions had to be taken to ensure the success of this naturalised river and designated floodplain. Bishan AMK Park is a naturalised canal that is also designed to accommodate a spike in water levels during rain events which may rise up to 3m.

Challenges arise when the river naturally floods out of its banks, to ensure erosion does not occur even when water levels rise and flow at a high velocity. One soil bioengineering technique employed is the use of Gabions; rock-filled wire cages placed strategically along river banks to provide structural support that prevents erosion.

Figure 3: Gabions (Photo Credit: Ariel Ong)

 

Figure 4: Channelised stream (Photo Credit: Ariel Ong)

The naturalising of Bishan AMK Park stream can serve as a balanced ecosystem, keeping Singapore a City in Nature. Here are 3 tips to ensure everyone can enjoy the Bishan AMK Park sustainably!

  1. Do not feed any animals
  • Human food like bread can introduce different strains of unhealthy bacteria to animals.
  • The introduction of additional nutrients into waterbodies can result in algae growth.
  1. Do not follow or approach wildlife
  • This could make them stressed and therefore result in aggressive behaviour.
  1. Take your litter with you (pack in pack out)

 

Such activities can upset the fragile balance of the ecosystem, it is crucial to educate your little ones, allowing the success of the restoration project of Bishan AMK Park to be appreciated by future generations, and inspiring more restoration projects all around Singapore!