Routes of protection

More importantly, the place has been a source of energy and encouragement for He Wu and his team.

It was built from scratch through the efforts of three generations of a local family, to which his colleague Yang Guojun belongs.

"His grandfather and father had both served as a protective force for this forest, and their commitment and achievements are inspiring," He Wu says.

"There is a great deal of pride in working with Yang and carrying on the legacy of his forebears," he says.

He Jiming also shares He Wu's sentiment, which he says has fueled his passion for his job.

"The township arranged a tree planting event in this area, and I was about 10 years old and our school joined in," He Jiming recalls.

"The saplings were only 70 to 80 centimeters high, shorter than I was, but look how tall and dense they have become," he says with pride.

He Wu says: "If anything, my love for forestry has grown, and I have grown attached to more things here.

"I'll probably retire here, God willing," he adds.