Zhanghe Wetland Introduction
Zhanghe Wetland is located in the middle of the Zhonghe Interchange on National Freeway No. 3, covering an area of 6.7 hectares, with a water area of 0.9 hectares. It was completed and opened in 2013, becoming the first metropolitan artificial wetland park in New Taipei City. The park was closed afterward due to seismic reinforcement work on the highway and reopened to the public again in December 2021. The natural methods used allow Zhanghe Wetland to follow the existing topography for construction, incorporating low-carbon and energy-efficient natural purification methods to treat wastewater, which is then recycled back into the canals, creating a sustainable water cycle. By establishing different types of water areas and planting various native species, the biodiversity within the habitat is enriched. The wetland also features crops such as bamboo shoots, water lilies, and taro, promoting food and agricultural education. The urban ecosystem of Zhanghe Wetland is highly diverse, with a total of 116 butterfly species, 90 bird species recorded, and over 384 plants cultivated. It serves as a habitat for species such as the Common Mormon butterfly, the large white butterfly, the Taiwan blue magpie, the Asian emerald cuckoo, and the Crested Serpent Eagle, and has also reintroduced various endangered species such as the Wulai blue and white cuckoo. Visitors can only enter Zhanghe Wetland by reservation, with guided tours led by professionals. Reservations can be made through the New Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau for an ecological journey in an urban corner. (Guided by Lin Zhenxing, Zhanghe Wetland Tour Instructor)
