This paper was intended to solve the main eco-environmental problems of the alpine meadow in the upstream area of the Xiliao River.Based on natural and economic conditions of the area

the distribution and construction techniques of an integrated protection forest system were studied systematically

and its protection effects were investigated preliminarily.The integrated protection forest system covers 46 800 hm2.The main part of the system is the shelter forest for farmlands

which is combined with trees

shrubs and herbs

as well as forest belts

forest nets and forest patches.Water resources conservation forest

soil and water conservation(forest and eco-economic) channels are the important compensations.The percentage of forest coverage increases from 11.8% to 23.3%.At present

effects of the shelter forest for farmlands are not so significant

but grass yield

grass species composition

physical property and nutrient status change greatly in the deteriorated grasslands.The integrated protection forest system may greatly accelerate sustainable development of the regional environment

economy and society

and maintain ecological security of the midstream and downstream areas of the Xiliao River and the capital of China.