Staff members use artificial smoke to repel insects from the ancient cypress trees in Guangyuan, Sichuan province. [Photo provided to cngy.gov.cn]

For thousands of years, the manmade cypress forest in Jiange county, Guangyuan, Sichuan province, has grown quietly, bearing witness to great changes in climate, the environment and human civilization. These ancient trees are precious treasures left by our ancestors.

Lining 150 kilometers of roads through Jiange county, the 7,803 ancient trees, the largest manmade cypress forest in the world, together make up the Cuiyun Corridor. The oldest cypress tree in the corridor was planted more than 2,300 years ago.

Thanks to the region's suitable climate, fertile soil and the local tradition of planting and protecting trees, Jiange county has earned the title of "hometown of cypress trees".

Since last year, efforts to protect these ancient cypresses have intensified. The county has established a "forest chief + tree chief" model to ensure the trees are well looked after. Each tree now has a QR code that can be scanned to provide information on its growth and age.

Additionally, wide-ranging cooperation with schools and research institutions has been initiated to improve the environment for weaker ancient cypresses, both above and below ground. The county employs aerial spraying, artificial smoke and physical protective measures to guard against attacks from moths, Yunnan pine caterpillars and termites.

Since last month, various protective measures have been implemented based on the specific needs of the trees. These include masonry protection for over 3,500 trees, termite control for over 1,800 trees, reinforcement for 337 trees, and rescue and rejuvenation efforts for 247 trees.

The efforts highlight Jiange county's commitment to preserving its ancient cypresses, ensuring these witnesses to history continue to thrive for future generations.