Forest-related economy aims high in Xichuan

Xichuan county in Nanyang, Henan province, has seen a rapid growth in its forest-related economy, thanks to the local government's proactive promotion of innovation and development.

The drive to promote a forest-related economy has focused on agriculture, improving social welfare and tourism. In this matter, the local government has gone to lengths to provide policy support to encourage farmers to establish cooperatives and family forestry centers.

Nearly 10,000 mu (666.67 hectares) of pomegranate trees were supplied to 800 local farmers by forestry company, Renhe. So far, the trees have yielded an extra annual per capita income of 5,000 yuan ($748.81).

In addition, the government established demonstration bases to promote industries specifically designed to improve social welfare, such as mushroom and walnut production. The county cultivated 2,000 mu of walnuts in Siwan, benefiting 180 farm households in Dahuashan and Dujiayao villages.

Taking advantage of its natural resources, the county promoted local tourism through establishing vocational villages, and helping more than 30,000 farmers in the region gain prosperity.