Extreme Weather and Geopolitics Drive Saline-Soil Reclamation in Tashkurgan, China
Introduction: Extreme Weather and Geopolitics Drive Saline-Soil Reclamation
Extreme weather challenges have propelled China into action with its saline-soil reclamation project in Tashkurgan. The initiative aims to convert saline-alkali soil into productive grasslands to ensure agricultural security in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With significant breakthroughs in vegetation coverage and hay yield, experts like Professor Xi Linqiao are optimistic about the future of high-altitude livestock feeding.
Background on Saline-Soil Reclamation Efforts
After eight years of intensive work in the region's Pamir Plateau, approximately 1,300 hectares (3,200 acres) of salt-affected desert in Tashkurgan have been converted into productive plains. This achievement marks the first large-scale success in cultivating high-quality forage across the dry and salty lands of the plateau.
Benefits of the Reclamation
- Vegetation coverage rate exceeding 85%
- Hay yield surpassing 4,500kg (9,920 pounds) per hectare
- Relieved pressure on high-altitude livestock feed
Innovative Techniques and Research Collaborations
The project includes efforts such as lowering pH levels from 9.5 to approximately 8 using acid-base balancing agents and halophilic bacteria. Moreover, the initiative incorporated irrigation infrastructure and innovative “dry seeding, wet germination” techniques to maximize irrigation effectiveness, addressing the region's uneven terrain.
National Importance of Saline-Land Reclamation
As urbanization and economic expansion diminish China's arable land, the reclamation of saline-alkali soil has gained national significance. Recent studies indicate that China possesses about 36.7 million hectares of saline land, with 12.3 million hectares eligible for agricultural use.
Professor Wang Guangzhou from China Agricultural University stated, “Reclaiming and improving this portion of saline-alkali land could significantly expand usable land, boost grain production, and safeguard national food security.” This sentiment is echoed by local media reports showcasing successful transformations of saline land across different regions, including Tangshan, where a notable 80% of the city's saline land has been converted to arable land.This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.