Danaihu Ecological Park Introduction
The name "Dana'iy Valley" is a direct transliteration from the pronunciation in the Tsou language. It is one of Taiwan's rare clean streams, located in the upper reaches of the Zengwen River at an altitude of about 500 meters. The stream is 18 kilometers long, with a pleasant climate and beautiful scenery. However, until more than a decade ago, Dana'iy Valley was in a concerning state, with people overfishing and polluting the water source, which became unbearable for the Tsou people of Shanmei village, who were determined to defend this vital water resource for their community. As a result, Dana'iy Valley underwent over ten years of restoration, even facing the impact of Typhoon Herb, which deformed the riverbed and caused trees and boulders to collapse. Nevertheless, the Tsou people of Shanmei rallied all villagers to move the stream stones and restore Dana'iy Valley. Today, we can finally see the crystal-clear waters flowing through it. The Dana'iy Valley Ecological Park is Taiwan's first ecological park promoted by the private sector, managed by the Shanmei Community Development Association. It is open for visitors, charging only a nominal maintenance fee. In recent years, Dana'iy Valley has become an emerging attraction in Alishan, with traditional song and dance performances even taking place at the park entrance. Dana'iy Valley not only features rich natural ecology, with lush mountains stretching gracefully, but also offers warm and serene trails, where streams shimmer in the valley, and large boulders line the stream with birds and butterflies dancing along the banks. The fish species in Dana'iy Valley are abundant, including the local mullet, commonly known as "bitter flower," which can be found in large numbers. On the other hand, for ecological balance, during the rainy season and fish spawning periods, Dana'iy Valley also allows fishing in the Zengwen River for anglers and provides fish fry to aquaculture operators. Thanks to the thorough protection of these ecological landscapes and the careful management of tourism resources, the living conditions of the Tsou people in Shanmei village have improved, enhancing the quality of life in the community.
