Kaohsiung Transforms Former Golf Course into Expansive Public Park

New Green Space Prioritizes Nature Conservation and Water Source Protection

A significant transformation is underway in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, as a 70-hectare private golf course adjacent to the vital Chengqing Lake is set to open as a public park in October. This initiative aims to create a valuable green space for the community while implementing measures to protect the surrounding environment.

The new park will preserve much of the golf course's existing greenery and landscape features. Given its proximity to Chengqing Lake, a crucial water source for Kaohsiung, the park will operate under specific regulations. These include a prohibition on pets and early closing times to safeguard the lake's water quality and the local wildlife.

City officials explained that the presence of pet waste could potentially impact the lake's water purity. Furthermore, the activity of pets, such as barking and roaming, could disturb resident birds and other wildlife, negatively affecting their habitats and breeding patterns.

The park boasts 70 hectares of diverse green space, encompassing hills, ponds, and grasslands. Plans are in place to develop 7.2 kilometers of walking trails, with the design thoughtfully incorporating natural elements. For instance, fallen branches from a previous typhoon have been creatively repurposed to create seating areas.

Conservation organizations have highlighted the ecological significance of the area. The Kaohsiung Wild Bird Society has recorded over 90 bird species in the vicinity of Chengqing Lake, including protected species like the crested serpent eagle, crested goshawk, and black-naped oriole. The presence of these species has led conservation groups to advocate for the park to be designated as a nature reserve, with further restrictions on public activities to ensure minimal environmental impact.

The park will adhere to the operating hours of the Chengqing Lake Scenic Area. From April to September, it will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and from October to March, the hours will be 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There will be no lighting after operating hours, and overnight parking will not be permitted.

Security patrols will be conducted both inside and outside the park to ensure safety and adherence to regulations. Activities such as camping, barbecuing, fishing, and swimming will be prohibited. Similar to other public parks, sports involving swinging bats or clubs, such as baseball and golf, are banned for safety reasons.

To encourage sustainable transportation, the park will offer paid parking for cars, scooters, and motorcycles. Additionally, bicycle parking facilities and YouBike rental stations have been established in the vicinity to promote eco-friendly travel options for visitors.