Algal Reef Ecological Environment Classroom Introduction
The only macroalgae reef ecological environment classroom in the country is located in the Xinwu District of Taoyuan City. It was formerly the Yongxing Landfill, which had been closed for over a decade. The city government prioritizes the conservation of macroalgae reefs and invested NT$15 million in 2018 to revitalize and transform the landfill into a macroalgae reef ecological environment classroom, which was inaugurated on July 4, 2019. This facility conducts ecological education on macroalgae reefs through physical observation, sensory experiences, and multimedia interaction, providing free admission for the public. Visitors can also book guided tours online, allowing for real-time ecological observations of macroalgae and intertidal zones according to tidal schedules. This initiative enables more people to experience the macroalgae reef ecological environment firsthand, making the classroom not just a display area but also a significant educational coastal environment. The coastal macroalgae reef in Taoyuan extends approximately 27 kilometers, starting from the Shaluan Macroalgae Reef in Dayuan District to the Guanxin Macroalgae Reef in Xinwu District. This plant-based reef is currently the largest and most complete macroalgae reef formation in the country, existing for over 4,000 years. The area surrounding the macroalgae reef ecological environment classroom comprises the Guanxin Macroalgae Reef Ecological Wildlife Protection Area, which is the southernmost macroalgae belt in Taoyuan, extending about 4.3 kilometers. The porous ecological characteristics of the area nurture rich biodiversity. To protect this precious macroalgae ecosystem, the classroom aims to promote environmental education while fulfilling rehabilitation, conservation, education, and recreational functions. The city government collaborates with the Yongxing Community Development Association in Xinwu District to jointly manage and operate the facility, fostering local ecological interpreters. On November 3, 2021, it received certification as an "Environmental Education Facility" from the Environmental Protection Administration of the Executive Yuan. The hope is to rally public support to cherish the valuable macroalgae resources along Taoyuan's coastline. The macroalgae reef ecological environment classroom features various themes, including macroalgae reef experiences, macroalgae crises, macroalgae characteristics, and community participation in protecting macroalgae habitats. It offers a two-hour environmental education course titled "A Thousand Year Love," attracting more people to learn about macroalgae. Future plans include organizing exploration adventures in the Hohuxi Hidden Valley, observing ecological features of windbreak forests, offering farm experiences at ancient Yongxing houses, and providing DIY hand-painted koi activities, all aimed at enriching environmental education through fun activities, hoping to encourage more people to step into the time tunnel of macroalgae. (Source: Office of Coastal Management, Taoyuan City Government)
