Geo-eco-hydrology of the Upper Yellow River

A climate-induced vegetation gradient induces marked variability in the character and behavior of anabranching reaches of the Upper Yellow River. Analysis of satellite imagery and field appraisal of biogeomorphic attributes shows that these reaches retain a good condition in geo-eco-hydrological terms. Degradational trends experienced in the late 20th century have been transformed into recovery pathways in recent decades. Changing land use practices, especially reduced stocking rates, and creation of various reserves have engendered environmental improvement. Recent climate change has supported improvements in geo-eco-hydrological conditions in the study reaches. A comprehensive suite of environmental protection programs of unprecedented scope and scale enhances the buffering capacity of landscapes and ecosystems in this region, supporting their ability to adapt to increasingly uncertain environmental futures.