Recently, Wang Hongyuan, Chairman of University Council, BFU, led a delegation to Yanchi County in Ningxia to review several key collaborative projects between BFU and Yanchi, including the Xiajidun large-scale experimental site, the National Monitoring and Research Station for the Maowusu Desert Ecosystem in Yanchi, the Macanghao Desertification Prevention Experimental Demonstration Area, and the Ningxia Haba Lake National Nature Reserve. A ceremony to unveil the new base in Yanchi was also conducted. Wang Tao, the university’s Deputy Party Secretary and Discipline Inspection Secretary, and Sun Xinli, Vice-Chairman of University Council, also participated in the research trip.

At the Xiajidun large-scale experimental site, Wang Hongyuan, along with key leaders from the Yanchi County Party Committee and County Government, officiated the unveiling of Beijing Forestry University’s Yanchi Base. Wang Hongyuan emphasized that the establishment and commissioning of the Yanchi Base is a significant step forward in the university’s pursuit of high-quality development. This milestone deepens the cooperation between Beijing Forestry University and Yanchi County, providing a robust platform for collaborative efforts in the ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin, as well as in the comprehensive fight against desertification in the Jiziwan area of the Yellow River.

Wang Hongyuan led a detailed inspection at the National Monitoring and Research Station for the Maowusu Desert Ecosystem in Yanchi Shaquanwan, evaluating desert experimental plots, labs, research outcomes, and the welfare of the stationed staff and students, as well as the station's routine operations. Wang underscored the importance of aligning desertification efforts with national and local needs, pushing the envelope in scientific and technological frontiers. He advocated for significant strides in theoretical innovation, tech development, and practical demonstrations to underpin local policymaking and provide innovative solutions for sand control. These efforts aim to enhance ecological sustainability, improve production, and steadily better living conditions across China's northern sandy areas, offering dedicated strategies and insights from BFU for the comprehensive desertification control in the Yellow River's crucial bends.

Wang Hongyuan and his delegation also visited the Macanghao Desertification Prevention Experimental Demonstration Area to gain insights into the collaboration between the university and local authorities on the application, testing, and promotion of new technologies for desertification control. They then visited the Ningxia Haba Lake National Nature Reserve to review the university's contributions to the reserve’s establishment, comprehensive surveys, scientific research, and public education efforts. Wang expressed high praise for the university’s faculty, commending their long-standing dedication to the frontline of sand and desertification control, where they have provided crucial technological support and innovative solutions for local development.

Leaders and relevant staff from President's Office, Division of CPC Organization, CPC of Retirement Services Office, School of Soil and Water Conservation and other departments and units, accompanied the delegation during the visit.

Written by Qin Shugao
Translated and edited by Song He
Reviewed by Yu Yangyang