Xingwang village in Qidong, Nantong, has recently improved its environment with water conservation work.

Drought and waterlogging frequently hit the village in the past. A water conservation project was established to improve the quality of farmland, reduce difficulties in farming and increase output.

With villagers' permission, the farmland of two pilot groups was tenanted at the price of 4,000 yuan ($564) per hectare and gathered by the local cooperative. To date, 17 old ditches have been drained and a new drainage network has been established.

"Although it may cause some losses to my fishpond, the improvement of the drainage system is good for all the villagers, so we all support the changes," said a local villager.

After the improvement of the drainage system, mechanized farming is easier in the village. The improved, high-quality farmland will be managed by major farming investors.

Xingwang village in Qidong, Nantong, improves its environment after water conservation work. [Photo/ntfabu.com]

Freshwater aquiculture will also be greatly developed and is expected to help increase farmers' incomes. The farmers working on the aquiculture are also required to take charge of the protection of the surrounding water environment.

Due to scientific management, 2 hectares of new farmland has been added.

Accordingly, the innovative water conservation project in Xingwang village was praised by Qidong's government department of water affairs, and technological support has also been offered for further improvement.