LINE

Text:AAAPrint
Feature

Tree-planting programs defy deserts and drought(3)

1
2019-06-20 10:01:55China Daily Editor : Mo Hong'e ECNS App Download

Orchard workers bag walnuts in Yecheng county, Kashgar. HU HUHU/XINHUA

Environmental benefits

According to local meteorological authorities, Makit saw 100 millimeters of rainfall last year, compared with only half that amount a decade ago. Meanwhile, sandstorms only occur about 50 days a year, from about 150 in 2009.

Wang said a positive cycle is being developed, because "more rain makes the rest of the work easier". At present, irrigation is essential to the survival of saplings in the first year after planting, but the rise in rainfall is expected to result in a shorter period of dependency.

In addition to the environmental progress, the man-made green belts provide vast swathes of land for the cultivation of cash crops that thrive in arid conditions.

In 2016, Wang's team began planting cistanche tubulosa in the woods. The parasitic plant - which has high added value due to its wide use in traditional Chinese medicine and cooking - obtains nutrients and water from the saxaul it grows upon. It is fast-growing too, and is ready for sale just 18 months after planting.

Figures provided by the local government show that 1 hectare of treated land produces about 2,250 kilograms of cistanche tubulosa per harvest, bringing in net profit of about 10,500 yuan. Cultivation of the hardy desert plant has provided jobs for about 200 poor farmers.

Wang said the team is exploring other ways to generate profits from the improved environment, such as developing organic farming by raising chickens in the shade provided by the saxaul trees.

MorePhoto

Most popular in 24h

MoreTop news

MoreVideo

News
Politics
Business
Society
Culture
Military
Sci-tech
Entertainment
Sports
Odd
Features
Biz
Economy
Travel
Travel News
Travel Types
Events
Food
Hotel
Bar & Club
Architecture
Gallery
Photo
CNS Photo
Video
Video
Learning Chinese
Learn About China
Social Chinese
Business Chinese
Buzz Words
Bilingual
Resources
ECNS Wire
Special Coverage
Infographics
Voices
LINE
Back to top Links | About Us | Jobs | Contact Us | Privacy Policy
Copyright ©1999-2019 Chinanews.com. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.