Prof. Max Finlayson (left) and Dr. Cui Lijuan during a China-Australia wetland network research cooperation. [Photo courtesy of Prof. Finlayson]

My journey in China goes back to the late 1990s when I had increased opportunities to explore more of the world and to engage with wetland scientists and managers. At that time, I was working in an international non-governmental organization (now known as Wetlands International) with strong links to the intergovernmental Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. It provided a pathway for connections with wetland experts in many countries as well as an increased understanding of the value of international cooperation when addressing the complex problems of managing wetlands.

I was able to work with wetland specialists (ecologists, hydrologists, managers, educators) in China. We met and shared knowledge, and learned from each other. I have been to China many times to participate in field investigations, provide guidance on wetland restoration, monitoring and management practices, and help promote the development of China's wetland expertise through training and education activities. This narrative covers some of these activities only — the activities are many and this is a short article.