Hualien County Proposes Reclaiming Land in Fengbin with 24 Million Tons of Mataian River Silt, Sparking Concerns

After approximately 24 million tons of sediment were dredged from the Mataian River following flood events, Hualien County authorities proposed transporting the surplus silt to the coast of Fengbin Township for land reclamation to accelerate disposal. County Secretary-General Rao Chung stated that discussions had occurred with water agencies and central authorities, though legal restrictions remain. However, local council members, the Kuroshio Ocean Education Foundation, and coastal residents raised concerns, noting that Fengbin's coastline encompasses sensitive coral reefs and traditional Amis harvesting grounds, questioning the lack of ecological survey reports and community dialogue.

Key takeaways

• Approximately 24 million tons of dredged silt from Mataian River face slow commercial off-take, prompting the county to suggest coastal reclamation in Fengbin.
• The county government stated discussions were held with water agencies and central authorities, while acknowledging legal constraints to overcome.
• Council members and environmental groups criticized the absence of ecological studies, warning silt deposition could endanger key coral reef zones and intertidal areas.
• Local Indigenous Amis residents expressed concern over impacts to traditional fishing and seaweed harvesting grounds, demanding concrete survey reports and consultation.