Harvesting seaweed has long been a traditional activity in Penghu. To promote resource conservation within the park while also safeguarding the rights and interests of local residents, the Marine National Park Headquarters (hereinafter referred to as MNP) announced on September 26 this year, in accordance with Point 5 of the “Penghu South Four Islands National Park Plan – Principles for Protection, Utilization, and Control,” that from November each year through March of the following year, fishermen may harvest seaweed within the terrestrial Special Scenic Areas of Dongji Islet, Xiji Islet, Dongyuping Islet, Xiyuping Islet, and Chutou Islet in the Penghu South Four Islands National Park (please refer to the green areas shown in Figure 1 of the registration form for designated open zones).
The long-leaf laver abundant in Penghu is an edible red algae often referred to as “black gold.” The local laver is renowned for its broad and thick fronds and high nutritional value. Wild laver, in particular, has a distinctive flavor and excellent texture. Each winter, many Penghu fishermen are drawn to harvest it as a means of supplementing household income.
MNP reminds fishermen who intend to enter the Penghu South Four Islands National Park to harvest seaweed to complete a “registration form” in advance at the Dongji Management Station or the Yuping Visitor Center for inspection purposes. Those unable to visit in person may also register by phone (Dongji Management Station: 06-9991112; Yuping Visitor Center: 06-9991502). In addition, the Headquarters urges harvesters not to enter areas that are not open to harvesting. As intertidal zones are rugged and slippery, with frequent strong winds and large waves, harvesters are advised to exercise caution and assume full responsibility for their own safety.