Chinese scientists have developed a new technology to improve the soil structure and permeability of saline land, making it possible to fully use the country's Songnen Plain, one of the world's major saline lands.

After three years of research, scientists with the China Academy of Science found that slightly salt water could be used to increase the aeration and texture of salinized soil.

After the treatment, high-yield grain crops like corn, beans, spring wheat and cabbage could be planted, they said.

Compared with fresh water, the slightly salt water is more effective in reducing the content of salt and alkalis in soil.

Initiated in 1999, the program was conducted by the Northeast China Institute of Geography and Agricultural Ecology affiliated to the academy. The research group is comprised of experts on physical geography, agrology, plant protection, hydrology and stock breeding.

Pilot programs have been conducted in 10 villages and townships of Da'an City in Jilin Province and have succeeded in raising grain output.

With 56 million mu (3.7 million hectares) of saline and alkaline land, the Songnen Plain situated between the Songhua and Nenjiang rivers in northeast China is also often plagued by drought.

(Xinhua News Agency August 12, 2002)