Locust‑breeding industry fuels rural vitalization in Shijing town, Feixian

As early autumn arrives, locust breeding bases in Longshan Village, Shijing Town, Feixian County present a bustling harvest scene. Rows of translucent breeding sheds stretch across mountain‑ringed countryside, forming silver‑ribbon‑like landscapes against rolling hills and farmlands.

Inside the greenhouses, farm workers feed fresh Mexican corn grass to locust colonies. Large numbers of locusts jump and forage on grass blades, creating continuous rustling sounds. The distinctive insect‑breeding sector has become a new pillar for local rural income growth and rural vitalization in southwest Linyi.

Longshan Village has built 167 standardized locust breeding sheds. Each shed can produce four batches of locusts every year. The whole growth cycle from larva to mature commercial locust takes roughly 40 days, featuring short cycles, fast returns and low initial investment compared with traditional crop planting.

Locusts are highly sensitive to pesticide residues. To guarantee product quality, the village has rented over 50 mu of land to plant pesticide‑free Mexican corn grass, which serves as exclusive fresh fodder for the breeding colonies. Zero‑pesticide forage ensures the green and safe quality of farm‑raised locusts.

The industry brings tangible benefits for local villagers. Farmers gain stable earnings from shed operation, fodder planting and on‑site working posts. The emerging characteristic agricultural chain combines planting and breeding, opening up a distinctive path for mountainous villages to increase household income without relying on conventional grain crops.

Shijing Town will continue to optimize the locust‑breeding industrial chain, explore further‑processing and market‑expansion channels, and help more mountain‑area households share dividends brought by featured agriculture.

Editor：韩蒙蒙