The “Laokeng River Water Environment Patrol Team from Yangmei District, Taoyuan City, participated in the “National Excellent Water Environment Patrol Team” selection organized by the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) of the Executive Yuan in 2022 and was honored with the “Excellent” distinction. The EPA presented them with a reward in the form of monetary recognition, acknowledging the continuous and dedicated efforts of the 54 team members.
Commissioner Shih-Wei Chen of the Department of Environmental Protection expressed that the Laokeng River Water Environment Patrol Team was formed by a group of river-loving and enthusiastic residents who took the initiative. With the belief of “taking care of our own homeland,” they dedicated themselves to safeguarding the water quality of rivers in Taoyuan City. With the guidance and support from the Department of Environmental Protection, the Water Environment Patrol Team was established. Through the formulation of guiding principles, guidance, nurturing, and coordination, they assisted the patrol team in effectively responding to various situations during their missions. Furthermore, they encouraged the development of distinctive characteristics unique to each location, taking into account local customs and traditions.
The Department of Environmental Protection stated that in the early stages, the upper reaches of the Laokeng River were plagued by environmental pollution, filth, and unbearable stench. Since the establishment of the patrol team in 2014, they have been actively involved in the protection and monitoring of a 5.7km stretch of the creek (from Huandong Bridge to Laokeng Bridge No. 1). In addition to regular patrols and periodic water quality monitoring, they have also been vigilant in monitoring pollution hotspots and conducting public outreach. As a result of their efforts, the river has gradually regained its original appearance. In recent times, further efforts have been made in the collaboration between local schools to restore the native flora and fauna, gradually reviving the pristine beauty of Laokeng River. Furthermore, with the aim of ensuring sustainable conservation of the riverine environment, future plans include utilizing the natural ecology as an environmental education site, expanding the promotion of environmental education to nearby junior high schools, elementary schools, and kindergartens.
Under the collective guardianship of the 70 Water Environment Patrol Teams, Taoyuan City has gradually crafted a vision of “Clear Waters, Flourishing Taoyuan” akin to a picturesque water paradise. The statistics for the voluntary patrol efforts in 2022 include a total of 266,628 hours dedicated, 1,480 instances of water quality monitoring, 251 reported instances of pollution, and an impressive 7,119 river garbage removal operations amounting to 100.95 metric tons. The Water Environment Patrol Teams have played a vital role in river conservation, and it is hoped that more civilian forces will actively engage in the conservation of water environments, joining the ranks of those devoted to maintaining the cleanliness of our city’s rivers.