Villages demonstrate 'lucid waters' concept

A trio of rural villages have been selected by the Shenyang bureau of ecology and environment as model examples of ecological development in line with the concept of "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets".

The villages of Yanjia, Qianxintai and Heishan, nominated in mid-March, are the first to be selected for demonstrating green concepts for development.

These villages are of great significance for Shenyang to show a more green concept, said Liu Tao, deputy head of the Shenyang bureau of ecology and environment.

The winners were assessed by 11 departments based on metrics related to the environment, tourism and transportation.

Located in the Qipan mountains, the village of Yanjia boasts an impressive natural environment around which has developed a prospering tourism industry.

Upholding a sustainable development philosophy, the village has promoted ecological tourism and established homestays to cater to visitors, Liu said.

Awarded as a national civilized village, Qianxintai in Yuhong district is located near the Puhe ecological corridor and benefits from being near the Beijing-Harbin high-speed railway.

Qianxintai has also focused on developing a tourism industry around the natural scenery that surrounds the village, as well as developing modern agriculture.

While it also has established homestays, visitors can pick fruits in the village orchards while sightseeing.

Tourism and agriculture have created economic growth and helped to improve the incomes of local people.

By promoting the coordinated development in terms of ecology, agriculture and tourism, Qianxintai has created a distinctive agricultural tourism brand for itself, Liu said.

Surrounded by mountains, the village of Heishan in Kangping county used to be very poor.

Some 15 years ago, villagers' entire income relied on just 200 hectares of farmable land, with the average per capita annual income about 1,500 yuan ($228), according to Liu.

In recent years, the village has sought the development of a forestry and fruit-growing industry based on an improved farming area of 266.67 hectares. The average annual income in the village has increased tenfold.

As its agricultural resources have increased, Heishan has been able to develop a characteristic eco-plantation and its own brand with strong market competitiveness, Liu said.

That not only helps with rural revitalization but also combines ecology, agriculture, rural areas and farmers, he added.

Shenyang is set to further implement ecological construction in these villages and explore new ways for the green economy to develop, he said.

Wu Yong contributed to this story.

CHINA DAILY

The village of Yanjia in Hunnan district is located in the Qipan mountain range, and has been hailed as a good example of eco-tourism development.