Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the severe impact of climate change on agriculture in China, highlighting the increasing frequency of extreme weather events such as droughts and floods, which are forcing farmers to adapt their practices and face rising costs [7][45][46]. Group 1: Current Agricultural Challenges - Farmers in regions like Henan and Shaanxi are experiencing prolonged droughts, leading to increased irrigation costs and reduced crop yields [4][5][24]. - The article notes that the average number of high-temperature days in Zhoukou, Henan, has increased to 23 days in 2023, compared to the historical average of 19 days [39]. - Farmers are facing significant financial pressure, with irrigation costs for crops like corn and kiwi fruit rising sharply due to the need for more frequent watering [20][29]. Group 2: Adaptation Strategies - Some farmers are adjusting their planting strategies by investing in drought-resistant seeds and irrigation infrastructure, despite the increased costs [6][33]. - The article mentions that farmers are increasingly using modern irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation, to improve efficiency and reduce water usage [33][49]. - There is a growing trend among farmers to abandon traditional crops in favor of more resilient varieties that can withstand extreme weather conditions [40][47]. Group 3: Long-term Implications - Experts predict that climate change will continue to alter agricultural practices in China, with suitable planting areas for crops like wheat moving northward [8][47]. - The Chinese government is initiating new agricultural climate zoning efforts to adapt to changing weather patterns and improve crop resilience [10][48]. - The construction of high-standard farmland is seen as a crucial measure to mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture [49][50].

Core Viewpoint - Climate change is fundamentally altering agricultural practices in China, necessitating adjustments in crop selection and planting schedules to adapt to new weather patterns [1][3][30]. Group 1: Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture - The suitable regions for wheat cultivation are gradually shifting northward, requiring changes in sowing times for winter wheat and the introduction of flood-resistant rice varieties in northeastern China [1][3][30]. - Farmers are facing increased costs due to prolonged droughts and extreme weather, leading to higher irrigation expenses and reduced crop yields [2][3][20]. - The frequency of extreme weather events has increased, with a notable rise in high-temperature days and drought conditions affecting crop production across various regions [26][30]. Group 2: Adaptation Strategies - Farmers are beginning to adopt new planting strategies, such as using drought-resistant seeds and investing in irrigation infrastructure to cope with changing climate conditions [3][22][31]. - The Chinese government is initiating a nationwide agricultural climate zoning project to redefine crop planting areas based on current climate conditions [4][30]. - High-standard farmland construction is being promoted as a key method to mitigate the impacts of climate change, enhancing irrigation efficiency and reducing the risk of crop failure [32][31]. Group 3: Economic Implications for Farmers - The financial burden on farmers is increasing due to higher irrigation costs and reduced crop yields, leading some to reconsider their agricultural practices or exit farming altogether [2][27][28]. - In regions like Henan and Shaanxi, farmers report significant drops in income due to adverse weather conditions, with some expecting a 30% decrease in yields compared to previous years [12][20][27]. - The rising costs of labor and inputs for crop production are pushing farmers to shift from high-maintenance crops to more resilient options like wheat and corn [27][28].