Forest-derived economy thrives in Kaiyang

Workers pick bamboo fungi in a forest in Kaiyang county, Guiyang. [Photo/WeChat account of Kaiyang county]

In recent years, Kaiyang county in Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, has adjusted and optimized its industrial structure and developed its forest-derived economy by fully utilizing under-forest land and advantageous natural conditions to plant cash crops such as edible fungi and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs.

Red-topped bamboo fungus, known as the "Queen of Mushrooms", is a characteristic edible fungus in Guizhou. It has a fragrant aroma, good taste, and thick flesh, with high culinary and medicinal value.

Not only does it help protect the ecosystem, but also yields over 400 kilograms per mu (0.07 hectares), bringing in an income of around 30,000 yuan ($4,155).

With the support of the county's policies, Guizhou Fuqian Selenium Green Agriculture Development Co has planted over 1,000 mu of red-topped bamboo fungi this year, 500 mu of which has entered harvest.

From July to October, the fungus can be harvested three times. The expected yield is about 400,000 kilograms, and during the peak harvesting period, it can provide employment for 50 local workers.

The company's general manager stated that since the company started cultivating red-topped bamboo fungi, it has received support and attention from the government. Coupled with the advantageous natural environment in Kaiyang, he is now more confident in developing the red-topped bamboo fungus industry, contributing to the county's rural vitalization.