An aerial view of horses grazing on stubble fields at Shandan Horse Farm Unit One. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

On Dec 4, a remarkable unique ecological shift happened at Shandan Horse Farm Unit One, as herds of horses, cattle, and sheep gracefully relocated from natural grasslands to over 70,000 mu (approximately 11,667 acres) of stubble fields for sustainable foraging.

Located in the core area of Qilian Mountains ecological protection zone, Shandan Horse Farm serves as an integral part of the northern Qilian Mountains grasslands and a crucial water conservation area for the Hexi Corridor. Its ecological environment holds strategic significance for the Qilian Mountains' preservation.

Every year, from November to late April, Unit One provides free access to over 70,000 mu of stubble fields for workers' livestock. These fields have become an essential winter "supply station" for the animals.