New farmers lead Shandong county’s agricultural modernization

A modified wheat seeder developed by Zhang Wencheng is widely used in local agricultural production. [Photo by Zhang Zhaoyang/for chinadaily.com.cn]

An increasing number of educated individuals with advanced skills, known as “new farmers,” are emerging, injecting vitality into the modernization of agriculture in Ningyang, Shandong province. Among them is Zhang Wencheng from Chonghua village, Xiangyin town.

In 2016, Zhang established an agricultural machinery service cooperative, offering villagers land leasing services related to cultivation and fertilization.

Moreover, he is a visionary inventor. By widening seedling plow spacing, he revamped the seeder, optimizing wheat plant distribution for enhanced light absorption, significantly elevating wheat germination rates and fortifying lodging resistance.

He also integrated a precision cruise system into his machinery for precise straight-line sowing, promoting reduced furrows and expanded land utilization.

Furthermore, this creator repurposed an industrial feeder into a "spiral feeder" for the efficient  loading of grain onto vehicles. This cost-effective, portable multi-functional machinery has become a top seller nationwide, with tens of thousands of units already sold. (Edited by Li Weiwei)