Unique barrier slows encroachment of desert sand

An afforestation site has become a fascinating attraction recently for tourists in Wuwei's Minqin county in Gansu province.

A sand-trapping barrier composed of clay, gravel and bags of soil combines with a glaze of snow to create some unique scenery in the desert. The barrier is helping to prevent the Badain Jaran and Tengger deserts from merging into each other, protecting the ancient Silk Road.

Minqin county has implemented a slew of measures to counter desertification, with man-made forested areas reaching about 150,000 hectares. It has protected over 210,000 hectares of natural sand-friendly vegetation.

There is a protective forest belt spanning more than 300 kilometers along the 408 km sand line, according to the local government.

The county is a demonstration area for ecological protection and construction recognized by central authorities.

Zhou Jiaxin contributed to the story.