The sheep farm operated by Jiahu Hu Sheep Cooperative. [Photo/WeChat account: rudongfb]

In Chengao village of Rudong county in East China's Jiangsu province, the sheep farm operated by Jiahu Hu Sheep Cooperative has transformed traditional sheep farming with cutting-edge technologies.

The farm, devoid of the usual pungent odors, boasts clean feeding areas, automated feeders, and a waste conveyor belt beneath slotted floors.

This high-tech facility, with an investment of over 5 million yuan ($705,000), has drastically transformed sheep farming, pushing the cooperative's annual sales beyond 30 million yuan and positioning it as a catalyst for local rural vitalization.

The technological overhaul has increased farming efficiency by 40 percent and reduced labor costs by 60 percent, while boosting the survival rate of Hu sheep from 90 percent to 98 percent.

Since its inception in 2009, when the cooperative founder He Xiaoquan invested 150,000 yuan in building a sheep barn and introduced 300 Hu sheep, the cooperative has grown to supply more than 50,000 fully grown sheep annually.

"The sheep farming industry has remained relatively stable over the years, capable of withstanding market risks while also enabling the local community to earn money together. This is meaningful," He said.

The cooperative also embraces sustainable practices, turning agricultural by-products like straw, bean dregs, and herbal residues into nutritious feed through fermentation. Sheep manure is processed into organic fertilizer, highly sought after by local fruit growers.

Last year, fertilizer sales generated over 80,000 yuan, with demand continuing to rise. "This eco-cycle benefits the environment and agriculture," said He.

From simple beginnings to a high-tech operation, He's venture follows a model of "technological empowerment, ecological priority, and farmers participation" to promote rural vitalization.

He said that he plans to replicate this model elsewhere, enhancing rural prosperity and exploring high-value sheep meat processing for premium markets.