Jizhou has been strengthening the protection of ancient trees that have lived there for more than a hundred years, turning them into “ecological influencers,” which has been helpful in the development of countryside tourism.
The northernmost part of Fangyu town in Jizhou is in the proximity of Jiulongshan National Forest Park. This natural resource provides the opportunity for Dongshuichang village, whose forest coverage rate is more than 95%, to become a well-known countryside scenic spot.
In Dongshuichang village, there is a locust tree that has a history of over a thousand years. This tree is worshipped by the local people because it has borne witness too many legends. During the Anti-Japanese War, the locust tree and the village nearby were both damaged by the conflagration. However, it survived and provided cover for the soldiers afterwards.
Gao Zhiwei, the agronomist of the Jizhou District Forestry Bureau, has been focusing on the protection of ancient trees in recent years. In addition to the basic living conditions, he is concerned about the historical stories of the trees, aiming to make them the voice of Jizhou.
Gao Zhiwei and Chen Yongsheng checking the condition of the tree [Photo by Zeng Xuebing]
“Dongshuichang village is one of the tour routes for revolutionary heritage. When tourists arrive at the trees, they have a better understanding of the history as well. Nowadays, the legend of the tree has become the anecdote, and brings higher income to the local people by attracting more tourists. Accordingly, people have a stronger awareness of protecting ancient trees.
The “influencer” and countryside tourism
Protecting the ancient trees not only guarantees them a better growing environment but also attracts more tourists. Because of the increasing number of tourists traveling here, many local people have started their own businesses—countryside hotels.
Gao jinhong checking the condition of the ancient tree [Photo by Zeng Xuebing]
Many fruit trees in the northern part of Jizhou can also be dated back hundreds of years. Nowadays, these trees and their fruits are also getting more popular and receiving better protection.