A photo of Haimen goats. [Photo/WeChat account: haimenfabu] 

Nestled at the confluence of the Yangtze River's warmth and the Yellow Sea's briny embrace, Haimen goat has thrived for decades, becoming a cultural icon in Haimen district, Nantong. 

Every autumn, the savory aroma of braised lamb wafting through the streets becomes a seasonal symbol etched in the hearts of the residents. 

But Haimen goat is more than just a delicious and nourishing delicacy; it plays a pivotal role in vitalizing local industries. This fact is underscored by its numerous accolades, including designation as a National Geographic Indication Protection Product and among the National Famous, Special, and Superior New Agricultural Products. 

At the Yangtze Delta Region White Goat Conservation and Breeding Research Institute, the air is filled with the sound of bleating goats. Spanning 1,600 mu (106.67 hectares), this national-level livestock genetic resource conservation farm, established in 1974, serves as a vital gene bank for the Haimen goat breed. 

Within its breeding facilities, each goat is equipped with an electronic ear tag, enabling comprehensive traceability of the animal's growth data. A dedicated team of 21 professionals, working in collaboration with institutions like Yangzhou University, drives breeding breakthroughs through deep industry-university-research integration. 

Today, the institute's goat population exceeds 1,000, supplying hundreds of high-quality breeding goats annually. The promotion of superior breeding stock has injected momentum into industrial development. Haimen currently boasts over 70,000 goat-raising households, employing nearly 80,000 people. 

The Haimen goat industry has formed a complete chain encompassing breeding, farming, processing, and sales. Leading enterprises have developed lamb gift boxes and ready-to-eat products sold both domestically and internationally, while research on writing brush wool continues to emerge. 

From a nostalgic flavor to the vision of a modern agricultural cluster, Haimen goat represents not only local taste but also the power of scientific perseverance and industrial innovation. This goat, steeped in the essence of rivers and seas, is now striding forward with vigor, writing a chapter in species preservation and rural vitalization.