From October to November 2025, the Million Tree Initiative successfully completed its Autumn Forest Survey in Inner Mongolia after 14 days of fieldwork. The survey focused on young and mid-aged forest stands planted between 2013 and 2025, using random sampling methods. A total of 22 forest plots were surveyed, with an average tree survival rate reaching 74.53 percent.
To support the survey, three local staff members were employed to conduct fieldwork across forest sites in Horqin Left Rear Banner. The team carried out systematic measurements of standard forestry indicators, including tree height, diameter at breast height (DBH), and basal diameter. In total, measurements were completed on more than 2,800 living trees.
Marking sample standard trees during field measurements (Photo by Kai Wang)
Poplar trees planted in 2018 (Photo by Kai Wang)
Poplar trees planted in 2014 (Photo by Kai Wang)
By contrast, young forests aged one to three years remain in a relatively vulnerable stage of development. These stands are more strongly affected by alternating periods of drought and flooding, which continue to pose challenges to their survival and growth. In addition, risks from weed competition, waterlogging, and soil salinization remain high, particularly in low-lying areas.
Soil salinization observed in low-lying areas (Photo by Kai Wang)
