Enforcement

To better conserve the Ramsar site and protect the wildlife inside, the Mai Po Marshes and the adjacent mudflats are listed in Schedule 6 of the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance and access to the area is restricted. Nature Wardens of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department are on high vigilance in patrolling the Ramsar Site for detecting illegal activities including entry without a permit from the authority. Two high-speed hovercraft, the 'Mudsurfer', have launched in assisting the patrol in the mudflats. Some areas in the Ramsar site are within the Frontier Closed Area and are patrolled by the Police.

Any person who enters into or be within the Restricted Area without a special permit issued by the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, is liable to a maximum fine of HK$50,000 on conviction.

Visiting Mai Po Marshes Restricted Area

Mai Po Marshes Restricted Area

Experienced bird watchers, conservationist and academic researchers who would like to enter the Restricted Area with a purpose in line with conservation of the Ramsar Site may apply to the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation for a special permit to enter the Mai Po Marshes Restricted Area.

The World Wide Fund for Nature Hong Kong (WWF-HK) works closely with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department in management of the Mai Po Marshes. School parties or members of the public may join the guided tours organized by WWF-HK with prior booking.