On October 23, 2024, the Taijiang National Park Headquarters (hereinafter “TNPH”) hosted the 2024 Eco-Friendly Habitat Achievements Presentation and Fishermen’s Photography Exhibition. The event brought together eco-friendly habitat partner fishermen, ecological conservation groups, and community members. With Acting Director-General Chen Chen-jung of the National Park Service as a witness, TNPH Director Hsieh Wei-sung joined 47 partner fishermen in signing a letter of intent on cooperation and presented awards for the third Fishermen’s Photography Exhibition. Additionally, TNPH signed a “Black-Faced Spoonbill Habitat Management and Corporate ESG Partnership MOU” with Luo K’ai-nan, President of Jebsee Electronics Co., Ltd., demonstrating the collective determination of partner enterprises and fishers to safeguard national park resources.

Acting Director-General Chen Chen-jung of the National Park Service expressed delight at the recognition of TNPH’s black-faced spoonbill conservation efforts by local fishermen and corporations, noting it as a major step forward in sustainable ecological management within national parks. Director Hsieh elaborated on Tainan’s vital role as the largest wintering ground for black-faced spoonbills in Taiwan. Since 2019, TNPH has gradually converted private fish ponds into eco-friendly habitats through the Eco-Friendly Habitat Development Project, creating a more comprehensive feeding environment for migratory birds. To date, 47 fish farmers managing 248.57 hectares of fish ponds have joined the initiative. Additionally, corporate partners such as Mingtai Insurance and Jebsee Electronics have committed ESG resources to assist TNPH in advancing biodiversity conservation efforts, further strengthening the collaboration between public and private sectors.

Participation in the Eco-Friendly Habitat Development Project has grown from an initial three fishermen to 47, thanks to word-of-mouth and community engagement. At the event, fisherman Liang Jui-fen was awarded the Annual Contribution Award for rallying nine new participants, bringing an additional 23.04 hectares of fish ponds into the program. The event also marked the opening of the Third Fishermen’s Photography Exhibition, featuring bird ecology photos taken by partner fishermen. Curated by experts, the exhibition highlights the beauty of migratory birds utilizing fish pond habitats and will be on display at the visitor center for a month. Despite their busy schedules, these fishermen have documented the interactions between birds and fish ponds, showcasing the ecological value of conservation. Through their participation, many fishermen have come to appreciate the importance of ecological preservation, gradually shifting their perspectives on coexistence with migratory birds. Fisherman Wang Chi-sen shared his experience, stating that he now takes care not to disturb migratory birds feeding in his fish ponds, ensuring these migratory waterbirds can rest and forage safely.

The TPNH emphasized that the black-faced spoonbill is considered an umbrella species. Protecting the spoonbills and their habitats also benefits other coexisting waterbirds and biodiversity, while maintaining the ecological functions of wetlands. Looking ahead, TNPH plans to continue partnering with fishermen to expand eco-friendly habitats and integrate corporate sustainability resources. Initiatives such as habitat management, resource support, and conservation education will further strengthen public-private collaboration, enhancing ecological preservation and environmental sustainability efforts within the national park.