Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS)

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Title Aohan Dryland Farming System
Introduction Located in Northern China and known as the ‘interface between China’s ancient farming and grassland management’, the Aohan Banner system is based on dryland farming and have been cultivating grains for more than 7,500 years. It is an important crop production area that combines farming, forestry and animal husbandry.
Start date 2012
Title Kuaijishan Ancient Chinese Torreya
Introduction The Chinese Torreya trees, some more than 1,000 years old, has been developed by the Kuaijishan Community by applying ancient grafting and artificial selection techniques.It is a harmonious system that prevents soil erosion while providing diverse ‘high value’ economic products such as nuts, medicine, oil and ornaments from the trees.
Start date 2013
Title Ar Horqin Grassland Nomadic System in Inner Mongolia
Introduction Ar Horqin is the first nomadic agricultural heritage system designated in China and an example for sustainable animal husbandry and fragile grazing land management. The ethnic Mongolian population has managed to preserve the traditional nomadic lifestyle, while ensuring the protection of vegetation and sustainable utilization of water resources.
Start date 2022
Title Kuttanad Below Sea Level Farming System
Introduction Kuttanad Wetland Agriculture System is below sea-level, created by draining delta swamps in brackish waters. The system is a complex mosaic of fragmented agricultural landscapes divided in three structures: wetlands used for paddy activities and fish catching, garden lands used for food crops plantation and water areas used as inland fishing and shells.
Start date 2013