河南淅川：河滩荒地种出致富新产业

Core Insights - The transformation of the riverbank in Shiyanhe Village, Henan Province, into a productive area for the cultivation of medicinal herb, Acorus calamus, began in February 2025 under the leadership of Wang Xiangdong, the village's first secretary [1][2] - The local community initially expressed skepticism about the viability of cultivating Acorus calamus, given past agricultural failures [1][2] Group 1: Economic Potential - The market demand for Acorus calamus is strong, with potential yields of 7,000 pounds per acre for fresh produce and approximately 1,400 pounds for processed dry herbs, translating to a potential value of 49,000 yuan per acre over three years, significantly higher than traditional crops [2] - A cooperative agreement with the Xichuan County Herbal Medicine Planting Professional Cooperative provided a safety net for farmers through a guaranteed purchase agreement [2] Group 2: Agricultural Development - The trial planting of 50 acres of Acorus calamus was unanimously approved by the villagers after thorough discussions and calculations of economic benefits [2] - The county has developed a comprehensive medicinal herb industry, with over 60 varieties cultivated, including honeysuckle, bupleurum, rosemary, and mugwort, covering an area of over 147,000 acres [2] - Approximately 80 business entities, including cooperatives and large-scale farmers, are involved in the medicinal herb cultivation, benefiting nearly 30,000 households with an average income increase of over 6,000 yuan per household [2]