Rapid development in the impoverished village of Yalu in Huangjing town has moved irreversibly forward since the beginning of 2007. Yalu village cooperated with Yalu Group in 2007 when the latter injected 10 million yuan ($1.6 million) to develop the poor village. So far, 61 private enterprises, a standard factory measuring 60,000 square meters, and the largest vegetable base in Taicang have located in the village.

The village has embraced cooperation and farmer innovation, establishing a community in which farmer can hold shares. The development model, in which enterprises support and interact with villages to jointly build new rural areas, has benefited Yalu residents.

Every farmer can be an example for others to follow. Each has a story and highlights. A rural library, basketball court and other sports facilities have been set up in the village. Yalu also often organizes artistic performances.

As a demonstration village for new rural areas in Suzhou, total disposable income in Dianzhan village reached 10.5 million yuan in 2011. The per capita net income for farmers was 21,520 yuan. Dianzhan village is also home to an industry-intensive area, ecological sightseeing zone for vegetables and fruits, and high-quality land.

Set up in 2008, farm product production and specialized sales cooperatives have adopted a model combining cooperation, bases, farmers and markets. The work has resulted in increased farmer income, land production and product value.

Dianzhan’s vigorous promotion of ecological agriculture has left the village heavily dependent on fruits and vegetables. Roughly 500 tons of grapes and 8,000 tons of pollution-free vegetables are produced annually. A fishing center, farm product demonstration center, ecological seed and chicken park, and fruit sightseeing park have been set up in the village.

Private enterprises have taken the lead in absorbing surplus labor. Farmers in the village are happy to enjoy the benefits of reform and innovation. The Party secretary of Dianzhan village will continue to lead all cadres to explore new ways to improve farmer income.

With rapid economic development, farmer ability and skill has improved significantly. Although demolition is hard, the farmers here are very rational and cooperative with such issues.