The integrated breeding base for meat sheep in Huanghuatan village. [Photo/Baotou news network]

In Damao Banner, Baotou, a new path is emerging where green development and high-quality animal husbandry go hand in hand. Here, the livestock industry is no longer at odds with the environment. Instead, it supports both ecological protection and economic prosperity.

At the integrated breeding base for meat sheep in Huanghuatan village, more than 1,000 well-groomed ewes graze peacefully in clean, organized pens. Nearby, lambs just weeks old bask in the sunlight. Overhead, rows of solar panels convert sunlight into clean, renewable energy.

A breeding ewe at the base. [Photo/Baotou news network]

"Local villagers entrust their breeding ewes to the base. We pay them an annual dividend of 200 yuan per ewe ($27.8) and return the sheep after three years if they choose," explained project leader Yang Yaoquan. The base focuses on embryo transfer to enhance local breeds. This system improves livestock genetics, and eases villagers' workload and feeding costs, boosting their annual income by up to 80 percent.

More importantly, it helps achieve ecological balance between livestock and grassland. By separating people and animals and centralizing breeding, the initiative curbs overgrazing and supports the sustainable use of pastures. 

To further maximize land use, the farm has invested 2.8 million yuan in a photovoltaic system installed atop the shelters. "This solar setup reduces our electricity costs by 10 percent and provides clean energy for the facility," Yang said.