Chuanming Ecological Education Sericulture Farm Introduction
In Miaoli, in a tranquil corner of the Shitan Valley, there used to be terraced rice fields. In the late 1970s, due to government initiatives, mulberry trees began to be planted, nurturing plump silkworms and marking the start of professional sericulture. Initially focused on round cocoon production, the farm later transitioned to flat cocoon production. However, by the 1990s, changes in government agricultural policy led to the abolition of the sericulture industry, and there was no longer anyone purchasing silk. Looking out at the vast green mulberry fields and an uncertain future, the farm owner was determined to preserve this precious historical industry in Taiwan, allowing children to see the adorable silkworms. Thus, the "Chuanming Ecological Education Sericulture Farm" was established. In this pesticide-free ecological mulberry garden, thousands of silkworms are nurtured. We can observe the silkworms eating mulberry leaves, gradually growing, spinning silk, pupating, and eventually transforming into moths. The yard is home to charming insects and small animals that flutter and scurry around. At night, fireflies accompany us, and if we're lucky, we might even spot a large silkworm! With over 20 years of sericulture experience, Chuanming is currently the only professional silkworm farm in Taiwan and is designated as a demonstration teaching site by the Miaoli County Government. From the basics of mulberry leaf planting and silkworm rearing to allowing visitors to personally participate in the production process of flat handmade silk quilts, the farm offers professional, lively, and easy-to-understand guided tours. This helps the public gain an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of silkworm ecology and leads them to experience the fascinating world of silkworms.
