Coral Reef Ecology Classroom Introduction
The rare algal reef-themed educational facility in Taiwan Did you know that Taiwan has a natural algal reef with a history of over 4,000 years? Located in the Xinshi District of Taoyuan City, the "Algal Reef Ecological Environment Classroom" is one of the few ecological education facilities in Taiwan focused on algal reefs. The algal reef area stretches a total of 27 kilometers, starting from the Zhuwei Fishing Port in Dayuan District and ending at the Yong'an Fishing Port in Xinshi District, making it the largest and most complete algal reef belt in Taiwan. It not only witnesses the traces of natural evolution but also harbors rich biodiversity and precious coastal resources. From a landfill to a coastal highlight, who would have thought that this green environmental education center was once the Yongxing landfill, which had been closed for over a decade? The Taoyuan City Government invested 15 million NTD to remodel and officially opened it in 2019, transforming it into a sustainable space that combines education and entertainment. Inside the facility, various methods such as physical observation, multimedia interaction, and sensory experiences provide an accessible introduction to the formation and evolution of algal reefs, common intertidal organisms, and the mangrove ecosystem of the Xinshi Creek. It is not just a classroom but also an outdoor adventure base. In addition to the indoor exhibitions, visitors can participate in outdoor tours led by professional guides, exploring the mangrove boardwalk and observing the new algal reef protection area. The ecological observation experiences arranged according to tidal times allow visitors to witness the rich ecology nurtured by porous algal reefs firsthand, as if embarking on a natural adventure exploring the ocean's mysteries! A paradise for children, the reading area in the classroom is set up with warm and charming furniture, offering several award-winning works selected from the city’s picture book competition, allowing children to develop an awareness and love for the environment through reading. Wooden chairs, delightful picture books, and natural light create a learning corner suitable for parents and children to enjoy together, enabling young travelers to become environmentally conscious little warriors. Collective action for ecological protection The "Algal Reef Ecological Environment Classroom" received the EPA's certification as an "Environmental Education Facility" in 2021 and is operated jointly by the city government and the Yongxing Community Development Association, committed to sustainable goals in conservation and education. This place is not only a tourist attraction but also an action base to raise environmental awareness and unite local forces. Let visiting travelers experience the millennia of Taiwan's coastline in this ecological classroom and together love and protect the ocean and algal reefs!
