Zhang Yinglong observes on the forest watchtower at Gechougou Village, Shenmu County of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 27, 2020. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)

 
Zhang Yinglong quitted his work in 2003 and returned to his hometown Shenmu County in northwest China's Shaanxi for sand control. He first contracted a land of 192,000 Mu (about 12,800 hectares) and embarked on his journey of planting trees and controlling sands.

Over the past 17 years, Zhang has contracted accumulated 428,000 Mu (about 28,533 hectares) of lands, where he led villagers to grow plants as well as raise livestock, not only helping local villagers increase earnings but also preserving the environment.

Land has turned green under the management of Zhang Yinglong at Gechougou Village, Shenmu County of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 27, 2020. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)

 

Zhang Yinglong checks the growth of plants at Gechougou Village, Shenmu County of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 27, 2020. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)

 

Zhang Yinglong (R) and a scientist discuss about soil moisture at Gechougou Village, Shenmu County of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 27, 2020. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)