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Water and soil erosion is a serious problem in P.R.China due to its limited per capital agricultural resources. It is even worse in the suburban area where the rapid urban sprawl stretches the limit of the natural resources. Urban sprawl also affects the community development and its physical landscape. However, the education and technology development, together with the huge potential commercial market for the agricultural products in the urban area, can be a major driving force for the economic development in the rural area. To significantly reduce water and soil erosion, effectively integrate the unique characteristics of urban and rural areas, and steadily build a balanced ecosystem in the suburban watershed, have become the key issues for both urban and rural long-term development.

This study proposes the procedures and solutions for the above-mentioned issues through a case study at Shi Ren Gully watershed. Shi Ren Gully watershed is located about 10 km away from Harerbin City, the capital of Heilong Jiang Province. The Shi Ren Gully watershed covers 10.42 km2 area that includes water and soil erosion area of 8.98 km2. This research started in 1989. Twenty-five major factors that have serious negative impacts on the nature recourses, land productive, and economical growth within the water basin have been identified. A computer-based model (BS) has been developed to analyze the relationships and the severities of all the factors. Comprehensive watershed management planning, and biological and water resource engineering have been developed and executed. After about 6 years of research and the implementation of the strategic plan, dramatic social and economic benefits have been achieved within and beyond the watershed area. The research results illustrated that the soil erosion reduced about 88%, water storage in the watershed increased to 1880 km3. Average income increased 300%. Substantial improvement has occurred in peoples daily life in this area.

The Shi Ren Gully watershed approach accomplished the mission of supporting the urban area development, while achieving conservation of suburban area water and soil resource, increasing land productivity, and sustaining a balanced natural resource environment which is vital for generations to come.