Research on Vegetation Removal Strategies for the Ming Guangwu Great Wall Based on Clearance Resistance Assessment

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The Great Wall of China, one of the nation’s most remarkable military defense structures, possesses a history spanning several millennia and is associated with numerous heritage sites. Today, it stands as a world-renowned cultural heritage asset. Vegetation growing on the ruins of the Great Wall can exert both detrimental and protective effects on the structure. Indiscriminate removal of such vegetation may lead to unintended damage to the heritage site. Drawing on the theory of “evaluative conservation”, this study integrates the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the Delphi method to develop a resistance assessment system for vegetation removal. A case study was conducted on 40 plant species or categories located along the Ming-era Guangwu section of the Great Wall, with spatial zoning analysis applied to inform removal strategies. The results reveal the structure, key factors, and classification criteria of the resistance evaluation system. Corresponding management recommendations are proposed, including strategies such as “preservation”, “partial preservation”, “removal”, and “subsequent removal and management”. This research provides a foundational reference for the conservation and restoration of the Great Wall heritage, and for the management of associated vegetation.