Gaomi: Innovative farming paves the way for prosperity

As winter approaches, Gufeng family farm in Damoujia town, Gaomi city buzzes with activity. Large drying towers hum as freshly harvested corn is dried and stored, awaiting the day it reaches the market.

The farm has introduced an innovative "non-equidistant" corn planting method. After years of experimentation, farm owner Liu Qingqiang has refined this technique to boost yields, achieving an increase of over 3,300 pounds per hectare. Liu has also implemented a 5:1 rotation layout to optimize land use and improve planting efficiency.

Grain is transported from Gufeng family farm. [Photo provided by chinadaily.com.cn]

In the same region, Liu Li 's family farm stands as another example of agricultural innovation. With over 373 hectares under cultivation, Liu Li's farm generates more than 16 million yuan ($2.2 million) in annual revenue, becoming a model for modern farming practices.

Liu Li employs water-saving drip irrigation technology, reducing water by over 30 percent and fertilizer by 10 percent, which saves 1,492 yuan per hectare and increases yields by more than 15 percent.

Beyond innovation in farming techniques, Liu Li has also expanded her business model by integrating agritourism and value-added agricultural products. The farm now offers visitors the chance to pick their own produce and explore heavily processed products.

Workers dry corn at a family farm in Xinlitun village, Gaomi city. [Photo provided by Li Haitao/for chinadaily.com.cn]

"We want everyone to earn more through farming and achieve shared prosperity!" Liu says. Her team now includes four recent graduates, bringing fresh energy and innovation to the agricultural sector. (Edited by Lin Li)