We thank Mr Tan Chin Hwee for his concern for the reserve (Dried leaves cleared away at Sungei Buloh, but not the rubbish; March 4).

The trails and boardwalks at the reserve are swept regularly for the safety of visitors.

These leaves are not cleared away but retained in the forest.

Much of the rubbish that gathers at the reserve's mangroves is brought in by the high tides.

The National Parks Board can clear the rubbish only at low tide, which means that our cleaners have a narrow window to do their job before the incoming tide brings in more litter.

To supplement our clean-up efforts, we get help from school volunteers, corporations and environmental groups.

We would like to remind all visitors to keep the reserve clean by disposing of rubbish in the bins provided.

Wong Tuan Wah

Group Director / Conservation

National Parks Board