Rural vitality in Shandong's district

The Hedong district of Linyi city, situated in East China's Shandong province, is strategically leveraging its geographical advantages and agricultural characteristics to spearhead rural vitalization efforts, aimed at increasing income for the local residents.

In Hedong's Dayoujia village, vast riverbank sand dunes previously yielded low grain output. Through extensive research and analysis, Allium mongolicum, an indigenous Asian wild onion variety, was introduced for cultivation. Following a year of meticulous exploration, this desert plant successfully established roots in the area.

Meanwhile, Qiaojiazhuang village in Hedong stands as the largest breeding and distribution center for rare fur-bearing animals in southern Shandong. However, market shifts have necessitated a transformation within the original breeding industry. Capitalizing on the large breeding park infrastructure and skilled management personnel, the locals boldly introduced sika deer and rabbit breeding ventures after thorough research and analysis.

The cultivation of Allium mongolicum, alongside sika deer and rabbit breeding initiatives, is propelling rural economic growth in Hedong, complemented by the successful cultivation of kumquats, Shine Muscat grapes, fresh cut flowers, and other produce by local family farms. Since the implementation of the rural development breakthrough project, Hedong has witnessed a surge in rural vitality. By 2023, per capita disposable income among rural residents in Hedong had surged to 21,000 yuan ($2,909), marking a 7.2 percent increase. Looking ahead to 2024, Hedong is committed to ensuring that over 90 percent of its administrative villages reach an annual income exceeding 500,000 yuan, steadfast in its pursuit of enhancing farmers' prosperity and income levels. (Edited by Du Xiaping)

Allium mongolicum planted in Dayoujia village, Hedong district, Linyi city, Shandong province. [Photo by Li Jiaonan for chinadaily.com.cn] 

Sika deer bred in Qiaojiazhuang village, Hedong district, Linyi city, Shandong province. [Photo by Zhu Mengcang for chinadaily.com.cn]