Analysis of ecological security for Baishuijiang natural conservation area based on ecological footprint theory

Ecological footprint is an important indicator for sustainable development state and capacity.Mainly according to data in Statistical Yearbook and the national economic statistics of Gansu province,the ecological footprint of Baishuijiang natural conservation area in 2005 are computed and analyzed.The result demonstrates that the ecological bearing capacity in the area is slightly higher than ecological footprint with the ecological surplus of 0.13,being a ecological sustainable development area,but compared with forestry developed countries and regions,the ecological bearing capacity still remains a large gap,and population increment and economic development in future will produce a probability of ecological deficit and threat to ecological security.The active and effective measures should be taken to maintain ecological surplus and sustainable development and protect ecological security and biological variety.