Chongqing - Baima Mountain, located in Wulong District, Chongqing, is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Unlike the bustling and well-known Chongqing Fairy Mountain, Baima Mountain remains serene and relatively undiscovered. From the fire lookout tower perched at an elevation of over 1,800 meters, Liu Chuntao is accompanied only by the whispering wind and birds chirping. Liu has devotedly safeguarded this 168,000-mu (112 square kilometers) forest for over three decades, becoming a key figure of "Three Generations of Forest Guardians" on Baima Mountain.

Liu Chuntao stands vigilant in the dense forests of Baima Mountain, where he has dedicated over thirty years to protecting its natural beauty. (Photo/Shangyou News)

Since its establishment in 1958, the Baima Mountain State-owned Forest Farm has seen Liu Chuntao's grandmother, Chen Wenxiu, as its pioneering forest ranger. She was succeeded by Liu's parents, Liu Enyuan and Chen Xilan. In 1992, Liu Chuntao continued the tradition of forest protection, becoming a third-generation forest ranger. Over the past 32 years, Liu has become intimately acquainted with every trail, every fork in the road, the distribution of rare tree species, the locations of rivers and streams, and the habitats frequented by wildlife.

Liu embarks on his mountain patrol each morning at sunrise, returning only at sunset. His patrol kit includes a machete, a bottle of water, a pack of dry provisions, a towel, and a walkie-talkie. Despite the modest nature of his gear, Liu remains resolute in his duties. During the forest fire prevention period, he and his colleagues work tirelessly, often around the clock, to monitor critical points and prevent any potential disasters. Understanding the catastrophic consequences of a possible fire, he spends every Chinese New Year on the mountain, conducting fire prevention campaigns and ensuring the safety of the forest.

During his daily patrol, Liu Chuntao carefully surveys the forest canopy, ensuring the protection and preservation of Baima Mountain's natural beauty. (Photo/Shangyou News)

Baima Mountain Forest Farm is characterized by its rugged terrain and towering peaks, which are home to a variety of rare plant and animal species. It is recognized as a genetic reservoir of wild flora and fauna in Southwest China. Liu frequently contends with harsh environmental conditions and isolation during his patrols. On one occasion, he was stranded at the management station for 45 days due to heavy snowfall. Cut off from the outside world, he subsisted on stored potatoes, wind-cured meat, and pumpkins. Once the snow cleared, he meticulously recorded this extraordinary period in his patrol log.

Although the work of a forest ranger can be monotonous, it is also filled with unexpected discoveries. Liu once encountered a Francois' leaf monkey (François' langur), a first-class protected species in China, which left him so exhilarated that he nearly lost his composure. In recent years, the number of rare plant and animal species in Baima Mountain has steadily increased, a trend that Liu diligently documents in his patrol logs.

Liu Chuntao rides his motorcycle through the rugged terrain of Baima Mountain, beginning another day of dedicated forest patrol. (Photo/Shangyou News)

With technological advancements, a new generation of forest rangers has emerged. Yuan Haiqing, a post-00s ranger, has become adept at using drones and infrared monitoring equipment for forest patrols. Liu Chuntao reflects, "I hope that more fresh talent will join us, enhancing the safety of our forest." Yuan confidently asserts, “Since the older generation has persevered, I will too!”

For 66 years, Liu Chuntao's family has maintained an unwavering commitment to protecting the same stretch of verdant mountain, with no incidents of fires, illegal logging, or other forms of forest destruction. This enduring vigilance across generations has enabled Baima Mountain's forest to thrive continuously. Liu Chuntao's dedication exemplifies the profound notion that safeguarding this forest is akin to preserving our home. The "Three Generations of Forest Guardians" on Baima Mountain have crafted a poignant narrative of commitment and perseverance in protecting this invaluable forest for future generations.