In Gansu province, the Babusha forest farm stands as a testament to the dedication of three generations of workers, notably embodied by a group known as "the six old men." These individuals began their journey in 1981, aiming to halt the encroachment of the Tengger Desert, which had devastated local agriculture and communities by advancing into farming land at an alarming rate.

Initially, Guo Chaoming, the eldest of the group at 61, alongside five other villagers, took a bold step by leasing 5,000 hectares of sandy terrain to create a forest farm. Their goal was to shield their crops from the destructive sandstorms that plagued their region, which had severely impacted more than 30,000 local residents during the 1980s.

Despite their initial efforts of planting 667 hectares of saplings, survival rates were disappointing due to harsh conditions; only 30 percent remained after the first sandstorm. Learning from these challenges, they discovered that planting saplings near clumps of grass increased their chances of survival. By employing techniques such as covering tree pits with wheat straw, they enhanced the saplings’ resilience, a method that would later be recognized as effective in desertification control throughout China.

The task of maintaining the newly planted trees proved even more challenging. To safeguard their labor, the six men lived onsite, facing minimal comforts. They constructed basic shelters from local materials and relied on simple meals, dedicating themselves to the cause for years. Their living situation improved slightly after assistance from the local forestry bureau in 1983 helped them build more substantial accommodations.

Throughout the hardships, these men cherished their forest farm as their most valued possession. Despite economic struggles in the 1990s, they remained steadfast, refusing to sell any of the trees or grass for financial gain. Over the years, illness took the lives of some members of the group, but their families continued this vital work, upholding the legacy of their ancestors.

The enduring commitment of the Babusha workers has led to a remarkable transformation in the once-arid area. Official statistics reveal that they have reclaimed over 30,000 hectares, converting dunes into lush grasslands and forests. The vegetation coverage within the farm's protected area has risen dramatically from below 3 percent to more than 75 percent today.

The relentless efforts of "the six old men" and their descendants have not gone unnoticed; in 2019, they were honored with titles such as "Model of the Times" and "Most Beautiful Fighters," celebrating their success in transforming a harsh desert landscape into a green oasis.