Sankeng Nature Ecological Park Introduction
The Sankeng Ecological Park is located by the picturesque Shimen Reservoir along the Dahan River, covering an area of approximately 7 hectares. The park features a large ecological lake and extensive grassy areas for recreation, built using ecological methods that incorporate a large number of native plant species. The ecological park harmonizes with natural landscapes and is equipped with facilities such as leisure parks, pavilions, wooden arches, and water channels, connecting to the Sankeng Cycling Trail, creating a space for leisure and fitness. The surrounding environment of Sankeng Ecological Park, free from industrial development, is adjacent to the reservoir dam, with layers of beautiful lake and mountain scenery, complemented by expansive sloped green areas along the lakeshore, creating a serene and leisurely atmosphere. In autumn, the native Taiwan bayberry trees bring a splash of tender red, adding beautiful colors to the green treetops, showcasing a stunning view. Historically, Sankeng Ecological Park was a busy ferry landing during the Japanese colonial period, which later declined due to river siltation affecting water transport. Additionally, the indiscriminate backfilling of waste after sand mining severely damaged the local natural landscape. However, through efforts from the local community and various stakeholders, the National Development Council redesigned and planned the area by introducing water from the Shimen Main Canal, gradually improving surrounding vegetation and transforming it into a sparkling, lush ecological park. Sankeng Ecological Park demonstrates rich riparian ecosystems and has become one of the representative spots of Longtan Mountain with its beautiful scenery. The ecological park, adjacent to Shimen Reservoir and the Dahan River, was designed with the main concept of preserving original ecosystems, minimizing human interference, and integrating nature with recreation. Apart from the pavilions and scenic bridges built with concrete, the entire area allows rainwater to naturally seep into the soil, while the edges of the ecological pond are constructed with natural pebbles, continuously supplied with groundwater and mountain spring water to keep the pond clear. The protective embankments are reinforced with treated wooden stakes to provide resting spots for birds; fishing is prohibited in the pond to maintain a rich aquatic ecosystem, making the scenery serene and enchanting, especially at sunset. Walking along the wooden path by the lakeshore allows close observation of the beautiful lake and mountain views and birdwatching, making it a perfect spot for visitors to enjoy leisure time, wedding photography, and ecological observation. Additionally, right next to the park is the Dahan River levee, where visitors can ascend the stone steps to enjoy distant views of the Shimen Dam and the Dahan River's coastal landscape. Behind the park connects to the well-known Sankeng Iron Horse Trail, a 6-kilometer-long bike path with a moderate slope, suitable for people of all ages to enjoy cycling and sightseeing. In midsummer, visitors can appreciate the endless green rice fields, and after the autumn and winter rice harvests, planting cosmos seeds serves as green manure, creating vast fields of cosmos flowers, presenting a picturesque floral spectacle.
