Baotou has initiated a major ecological restoration effort this year, targeting over two million mu (1.33 million hectares) of land as part of China's Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program. The project focuses on key areas, including the Yinshan Mountains' northern foothills and Daqing Mountain's southern slopes, with 8,680 hectares specifically allocated for forest upgrades through measures such as irrigation systems and desertification control.

Over 200 afforestation workers have begun planting drought-resistant elms in Guyang county, marking the first phase of the 180 million yuan ($25 million) initiative. The city aims to complete 80 percent of the work by May, with the remaining tasks to be finished by October. This ambitious program underscores Baotou's commitment to combating sandstorms and enhancing the Yellow River basin's ecological security.