Thriving without tree-felling

The shift to a green economy has given rise to a thriving "under-forest economy". Luo Zhizhong, head of the Ma'anshan Forest Farm, said that forest clearings are now used to cultivate medicinal herbs and fungi, plants that are accustomed to growing in the shade.

"Growing crops under the forest canopy not only improves their quality but also suppresses weeds and promotes tree growth," Luo said. To ensure the healthy growth of medicinal herbs, continuous maintenance of forest land is required, he added.

"Under-forest cultivation not only reduces the accumulation of combustible materials and lowers the risk of forest fires but also prevents damage to the forest land, playing an important role in preserving regional biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance," said Luo.

Local farmers grow black fungus and medicinal herbs such as Ganoderma lucidum and astragalus. With government guidance, the Ma'anshan mountain has become a demonstration area for forest-based cultivation.

The harvested herbs are sold at nearby markets specializing in traditional Chinese and Mongolian medicines, where demand is strong and prices are high. The government of Harqin Banner offers subsidies of 6,000 yuan ($844) per hectare for herb cultivation and 45,000 yuan per hectare for fungi cultivation — encouraging more residents to join the under-forest industry.

High-value-added crops and smooth sales channels have made the under-forest industry attractive to local villagers. "Residents came to take part when they saw the benefits of the under-forest economy," Luo said, adding that residents participate mainly through land transfer arrangements with the forest farm providing technology and land.