The Gaoping River’s vital role in Southern Taiwan cannot be overstated. Starting at Yushan (Mt. Jade), the river travels through 23 townships before emptying into the Taiwan Strait. Its main tributaries—the Laonong, Qishan, Zhuokou, Ailiao, and Meinong rivers—stretch the system to 171 kilometers. With a basin covering 3,257 square kilometers, it is Taiwan’s largest.
The river serves as a crucial water source for millions in Southern Taiwan. However, the steep terrain, heavy rainfall, and sudden floods also make it a force to respect and sometimes fear. Environmental activist Lee Ken-cheng points out that Kaohsiung City’s northern boundary lies at Yushan. He stresses that understanding the Gaoping River is key to understanding the region.
Taiwan’s climate intensifies the river’s challenges. While the island receives abundant rain, the wet and dry seasons vary greatly. The Gaoping River Basin sees 82% of its rain between May and December. This imbalance causes landslides and flooding, which damage reservoirs and disrupt water supplies. Despite its heavy rainfall, Taiwan still faces droughts during dry periods.
The river suffered from neglect in the 1990s. It was polluted by livestock waste and industry, and illegal sand mining damaged its banks. Thanks to activists like Dr. Tseng Kuei-hai, the government finally created a committee to protect the river. This committee has helped improve the river’s environment significantly.
Even so, water shortages persist during dry seasons. Large hydrological projects have been attempted, but most failed due to environmental or technical problems. Still, the search for sustainable water management continues.
The Gaoping River’s vital role also shapes local culture. The Hakka and Hoklo people, along with indigenous groups like the Bunun, Hla’alua, and Kanakanavu, have lived here for generations. Their rituals and festivals honor the river’s life-giving waters. The Meinong Folk Village hosts ceremonies dedicated to water deities, reflecting deep respect for this resource.
Moreover, the area includes “Little Yunnan,” where descendants of Chinese soldiers settled after World War II. The cultural mix around the Gaoping River highlights its importance beyond water supply.
Experts like Professor Ting Cheh-shyh emphasize new approaches to managing the river. He promotes hyporheic water systems, which use underground flow beneath riverbeds. These systems offer stable, clean water, even during droughts or floods. They cost less, require less maintenance, and avoid environmental damage compared to traditional reservoirs.
After decades of advocacy, nine hyporheic water projects now serve nearly four million people. These projects have prevented water restrictions during recent severe droughts. Ting’s work shows how innovation can protect the Gaoping River’s vital role.
In conclusion, the Gaoping River’s vital role connects nature, culture, and modern life in Southern Taiwan. Despite natural challenges, its people continuously find ways to coexist with the river’s power. This “mother” river teaches valuable lessons about resilience and the preciousness of every drop of water.
