Spice of life

As part of sustainable anti-poverty measures, local authorities continue to tap the economic and growth potential of harvesting the black cardamom, also known as caoguo, that adapt particularly well to the pristine, high-altitude environment of Dulongjiang. Measures to encourage and train villagers to harvest the herb are raking in impressive rewards.

In 2018, most village committees were involved in the crop, covering 4,500 hectares with output surpassing 1,000 tons and 7.4 million yuan, according to local officials. Income from harvesting black cardamom hit an annual average of about 2,700 yuan for each villager last year.

The township has also attracted investors to build a 48-ton cardamom-drying facility to help process and distribute the plant more efficiently.

Similar efforts are being made to promote the growth of acclaimed local food products like wild morels and beef from cattle that graze on the verdant slopes of the surrounding valleys.