To demonstrate the multifunctional forest management approach and explore how economic, social and environmental benefits can be balanced and enhanced in the forest management unit and in the wider region.
Construct demonstration sites of multifunctional forests in different forest types.
Formulate a protection and collection plan for non-timber forest products.
Construct community co-management demonstration sites on the forest farm.
Promote sustainable forest management and improve management capacity on the forest farm.
Development of information management systems for forest resources, general affairs and finances for a forest farm.
Management of 466 ha of forests with different forest types using close-to-nature forest management approaches.
Grow non-timber forest products, such as edible fungi, to promote forest multifunctional management.
Demonstration sites of community co-management on the forest farm.
Construction of a Multifunction Forestry Training Centre, training 200 technical personnel and 400 forest farmers each year.
The project successfully integrated ecological restoration, community development, and institutional capacity building, setting a benchmark for multifunctional forestry in northern China. Continued investment and scaling-up are critical to ensure long-term sustainability and regional impact. Key achievements include:
Forest Transformation & Biodiversity Enhancement
The project converted 7000 mu (466 ha) of monoculture plantations and secondary birch forests into mixed, diverse forests using close-to-nature management (CNFM). Biodiversity improved through assisted natural regeneration, enrichment planting of native species like Mongolian oak and Korean pine, and reducing monoculture dominance.
Community Co-Management & Livelihood Improvement
A forest-community co-management system was established with Andangou Village (2,800 residents), engaging locals in patrols, fire prevention, and sustainable NTFP use. Mushroom cooperatives provided jobs for 280+ villagers, seasonal work for 600+, while seedling production (4 million seedlings annually) and eco-tourism diversified incomes.
Economic & Ecological Benefits
The project promoted sustainable NTFP harvesting, identifying 100+ species and linking villagers to markets, particularly for aromatic fungi. Improved forest health enhanced carbon sequestration and watershed protection, contributing to ecosystem services and climate resilience.
Capacity Building & Infrastructure
Forest farm management was modernized with digital monitoring systems, while a Multifunction Forestry Training Center was established. Over 200 technicians and 400 farmers received annual training in sustainable forestry practices, strengthening local expertise.
Policy & Regional Influence
The project provided a replicable model for sustainable forest management in semi-arid regions, aligning with national goals on ecological conservation and climate adaptation. Its success highlights the potential for scaling up similar initiatives across northern China.
