Ordos recently outlined its key tasks for the 2026 phase of the "Three-North" shelterbelt project, setting a target to complete afforestation and ecological restoration on over 14 million mu (approximately 933,333 hectares) throughout the year.

  The trainning site.

At a project launch event, training sessions focused on practical field operations. Technicians with frontline experience and proven success in desert control were invited to lead on-site instruction on core techniques such as afforestation, grass planting, engineering-based sand fixation, and quality control. Attendees observed mechanized operations and learned about human-machine collaboration in sand control practices.

 The sand fixation grid.

At the sand control operation site, pile drivers worked with precision, drones transported straw and materials overhead, and hand-held sand barrier machines moved efficiently to lay out straw grids. Workers coordinated in teams, digging sand trenches, inserting branches, shoveling and backfilling — together painting a vivid picture of all-out efforts during the spring window to advance ecological rehabilitation.

In 2026, Ordos will follow the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region's "1571" work plan and align with the region's broader forestry and grassland goals. The city's over 14 million mu of "Three-North" tasks include 6 million mu designated for desertification control. It also aims to advance the Kubuqi Desert "PV Great Wall" project, targeting over 1 million mu of desert control through photovoltaic integration by year-end. Additionally, 740 kilometers of "desert control via road construction" projects are planned, expected to drive 76,000 mu of ecological restoration along roadways.