Promoting the realization of ecological product value is a key pathway for implementing the principle of “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets” and for developing happy rivers and lakes. Taking the Yaodu River in Dongzhi County

Anhui Province

as a case study

this paper analyzes the achievements and constraints of river governance and examines the mechanisms and enabling pathways through which happy river and lake development promotes the realization of ecological values. A theoretical analytical framework centered on “value identification-value enhancement” is established. On this basis

a value-realization-oriented five-dimensional pathway framework is developed

comprising the strengthening of ecological baseline value

activation of direct-use value

enhancement of cultural value

conversion of ecological value into industrial and economic value

and innovation in management value. Together

these pathways facilitate the systematic transformation of ecological advantages into development advantages. Safeguards are further proposed in four aspects: property-rights institutions

value accounting systems

investment and financing mechanisms

and collaborative governance. The study can provide insights and references for ecological governance and green

high-quality development in comparable river basins.