Temporary closure of AFCD public facilities from tomorrow

     The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) announced today (July 14) that, in the light of the latest developments of COVID-19, there is a need to put in place measures to reduce social contact. The following AFCD public facilities will be temporarily closed from tomorrow (July 15) and school and public programmes will also be cancelled until further notice:

1. Hong Kong Wetland Park;
2. Eight Country Park Visitor/Education Centres, namely Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre, Ngong Ping Nature Centre, Lions Nature Education Centre (LNEC) (except for the outdoor exhibition area), Shing Mun Country Park Visitor Centre, Aberdeen Tree Centre, Clear Water Bay Country Park Visitor Centre, Tai Mo Shan Country Park Visitor Centre and Sai Kung Country Park Visitor Centre (except for the reception counter for permit applications);
3. Seven Hong Kong Geopark Visitor Centres, namely Hong Kong Geopark Visitor Centre at LNEC, Sai Kung Volcano Discovery Centre, Lai Chi Wo Geoheritage Centre, Tai Po Geoheritage Centre, Ap Chau Story Room, Kau Sai Village Story Room and Kat O Story Room; and
4. Endangered Species Resource Centre at Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices.

     An AFCD spokesman said, "The 163 barbecue sites and 41 campsites under the management of the AFCD will also be closed from tomorrow. Details of these sites are available on the AFCD website: www.afcd.gov.hk. During the closure of the above facilities, no one should carry out barbecuing or camping activities in country parks. AFCD staff will step up patrols of the sites concerned. Appropriate follow-up action will be taken against any violation of relevant regulations."

     The AFCD will continue to closely monitor the situation and review the above arrangements as appropriate. The latest updates on the facilities in the country parks are available on the "Enjoy Hiking" website: www.hiking.gov.hk as well.

     The spokesman reminds visitors of country parks to ensure personal and environmental hygiene and maintain social distancing. Visitors should properly handle used masks and waste and take their litter home.