Abstract: Significance evaluation and zoning of ecosystem soil conservation will provide scientific basis for the planning of ecosystem protection regions in the upstream of Yangtze River,  the ecological shelter of west China. The following factors were selected as the evaluation indexes: rainfall erosivity, soil erodibility, topographic relief degree, and vegetation cover. Based on the sensitivity assessment of soil erosion, and in association with hazards of landslide and debris flow, and impact degree of soil erosion on the flood control capacity of rivers and reservoirs, as well as river sediment transport capacity, and soil conservation significance level and landform consistency, the upstream area of Yangtze River was divided into 5 zones according to the significance levels. This result will be important guidance for the utilization of land resources in the upstream of Yangtze River.

Key words: upstream of the Yangtze River, soil conservation, significance evaluation, significance zoning