Neigou Stream Ecological Trail Introduction
Nei Gou Stream is a tributary of the Keelung River, with a total length of approximately 5.5 kilometers and a drainage area of about 7 square kilometers. To the west of Nei Gou Stream is Taipei City, while to the east is New Taipei City. It serves as a great spot for residents of the Donghu area to walk, relax, and chat, and is also the best place in Donghu to get close to nature. Since 2013, a comprehensive landscape transformation of the mid-section of Nei Gou Stream in Donghu has been underway, extending nearly 1 kilometer of riverside walking paths from the upstream area. By establishing scenic bridges and waterfront paths, it connects the previously separated Taipei and New Taipei Cities, allowing for a roaming route. While clearing accumulated soil, the environment of the Wufenpi water area is restored, creating ecological habitats of varying depths. It aims to provide a space for ecological education that is accessible day or night, fostering a connection to the mountain, water, and nature, enhancing the willingness of residents to engage with these areas and promoting recognition, understanding, and joint conservation efforts. This project also aims to allow the beautiful memories once held by the local elders to resurface. The four main aspects include: 1. Unique creativity and restoration of the former natural and cultural living environment, emphasizing lightweight structures and designs integrated with the desired Jiangnan garden landscape aesthetics, while respecting and blending with the natural environment of Nei Gou Stream. It also considers hydraulic engineering and flood control structures while ensuring aesthetic appeal. 2. Preserving the existing riverside green corridor and increasing opportunities for greening along the embankment top. Where feasible on the top of the embankment, greening will be undertaken to enrich and expand the riverside ecology. 3. Preservation and improvement of riverside habitats, prioritizing embankment safety while also focusing on the preservation and enhancement of natural ecosystems, ensuring that overall design follows the existing bank gradients and topography, with minimal excavation or ecological disturbance beyond dredging. 4. Energy conservation, carbon reduction, and sustainable development. In response to energy-saving and carbon-reduction needs, low-intensity lighting will be utilized along the riverside paths, maintaining safety lighting for nighttime walkers and planning for decorative lighting on key scenic bridges connecting the two cities, creating the imagery of a starlit waterfront. (Part of the data source: Public Works Department, Taipei City Government)
