Farmland enclosure project completed in Asan Village

In March 2012, the fifth Vale Award sub-project, Asan Village Farmland Enclosure Project was launched in Suozuo Township, Nyalam County. The project was completed in June. Gangjiu Natural Village consists of 56 poorest households in Asan Village. Although in recent years, the government has built and strengthened farming irrigation systems and pond, which has largely improved local irrigation facilities, enhanced its ability to resist natural disasters, ensuring agricultural production. 

However, one of the most critical problems arose, which is wild animal, especially Procapra gutturosa, destroying crops. Asan has 290 thousand mu of grassland, and there is no major conflict between human and wild animal or livestock and wild animals for the grassland. There is no hunting or wild animal killing in the village. Due to wild animal conservation efforts, Procapra gutturosa has enjoyed an increased number, where many Procapra gutturosa can be seen around the village. It is estimated that more than 50 Procapra gutturosa are living around Asan. After spring sowing, Procapra gutturosa usually come down to farmland to feed on fresh barley crops when grass has yet grown on hills. It is understandable. But even when the grass is well grown in summer, Procapra gutturosa still feed on crops, which largely undermines poor farmers’ interests, resulting in reduced production. The solution is to set up farmland enclosures to prevent wild animals from destroying crops. 

When the project is completed, it has several benefits. First, it protects farmland from being destroyed by wild animals; Second, it helps build a sustainable development path and increase life abilities for wild animals; Third, over 98% of villagers, more than 600 people can benefit from the project, meeting the urgent needs of the community.