Tourists take the raft at the Shangqing Stream Scenic Area. [Photo by Deng Jiahui/chinadaily.com.cn]

Huang said that the demand for rafters has increased significantly since Taining county developed its tourism industry.

Many young people no longer need to leave their hometowns for work, they can find a job right on their doorstep, he said, adding that the influx of tourists has also spurred the development of other related industries.

Over the past 25 years, Huang has also witnessed the efforts of local authorities for ecological protection and significant improvements in the local environment.