Taipei City GovernmentWater Resource

How can I book a Feitsui Reservoir tour or the Feitsui Reservoir Environmental Learning Center Programs?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 01:00:00 GMT

(1)Tours and Programs Available from:
09:30A.M. – 11:30A.M., 2:00P.M. – 4:00P.M., except Mon. and weekend.
(2)Groups Qualified for Booking:
–1. Schools and government organizations.
–2. Non-governmental organizations and enterprises.
–3. Foreign visitors invited by government agencies.
–4. Reservation Procedures: Tours or programs can be scheduled by phone and an official reservation letter must be sent two weeks prior to the scheduled tour time.
Reservation Tel: (02) 26664996~8

Why is Feitsui Reservoir located in New Taipei City but managed by Taipei City Government?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:59:00 GMT

In the 1970’s, the Taipei metropolis suffered water shortages and the effective solution was to build a reservoir. Therefore, the Executive Yuan approved the construction and the reservoir was completed in June, 1987; most of the construction cost was raised and paid for by Taipei City Government. Therefore, Feitsui Reservoir’s management is supervised by Taipei City Government. Feitsui Reservoir and Nanshih Creek both share an important task of supplying public water to all of Taipei City and parts of New Taipei City.

What is the meaning of Feitsui Reservoir operation rules?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:58:00 GMT

To meet the water demand in the Greater Taipei area, and in accordance with the catchment area rainfall, seasonal characteristics, as well as demand factors, Feitsui Reservoir has set 4 gauge lines indicating different levels of water limits (Upper, Middle, Lower and Critically Lower). The meaning of each gauge line is described as follows:(1) Above the Upper Limit, water storage is sufficient for supplying the Taipei metropolis. In case of a typhoon, reservoir administration will lower the water level as much as possible to hold the enormous amount of rain brought by the storm.(2) Between the Upper and Middle Limits, water storage is enough to supply the Taipei metropolis. During a typhoon, the reservoir has enough storage to contain a large amount of rain, thereby lowering the risk of downstream floods. The gauge line is ideal for storage and supply.(3) Between the Middle and Lower Limit, water storage is enough to meet the demand. In order to reduce the risk of water shortages in the future, the reservoir must assess the water demand, predict precipitation in the catchment area and cautiously operate the flood release.(4) Between the Lower and Critically Lower Limit, water storage is likely unable to meet the demand of the Taipei metropolis. Reducing the nighttime water supply is considered plausible after a joint session with other related agencies to discuss the hydrological situation.(5) Below the Critically Lower Limit, water storage will not meet the demand of the Taipei Metropolis, rationing the water supply will come into effect.

Does Feitsui Reservoir allow fishing, boating, or any types of water activities?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:49:00 GMT

Feitsui Reservoir is an important water source for Taipei metropolis, and is one of the country’s most excellent reservoir in terms of water quality. Since development of source water is increasingly difficult and reservoir is in an environmental sensitive area. For the purpose of supplying public water and maintaining the excellent water quality, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, R.O.C. had decided on October 21, 1994 that fishing, boating, or engaging in any types of water activities in Feitsui Reservoir and its impounding area is strictly prohibited.

How does the water/flood release broadcasting system of Feitsui Reservoir operate?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:39:00 GMT

To ensure the safety of residents living downstream,the Feitsui Reservoir broadcasting system is activated prior to water releases (flood discharges) to warn residents to leave the downstream areas immediately. The procedures are as follows:

(1)Water Supply/Hydropower Release: 20 minutes prior to Feitsui Reservoir's water release, the Feitsui Reservoir broadcasting system will activate the warning system from the river downstream of Feitsui dam to Xindian Guangxing Park.

(2)Flood Discharges: according to the announcement made by the Water Resources Agency of the Ministry of Economic Affairs in November, 2001, Feitsui Reservoir must activate the flood release warning system 2 hours (in 20-minute increment) prior to the release. The warning system covers areas from the river downstream of Feitsui dam to Huajiang Bridge.

Which are the activities Feitsui Reservoir offers for people to participate in?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:32:00 GMT

(1)Student Tours: From March to June and September to December, a total of 18 tours and 80 students per tour and schools (fifth to sixth graders) in Taipei City and within the water conservation area in New Taipei City with courses based on the Water Ecological Education.

(2)Ecological Camp of Feitsui Reservoir: two groups per year only, mainly for sixth graders from Taipei and New Taipei City. The course is mainly about wildlife observation and arts and craft activities.

(3)Registration dates for the above activities are posted on Feitsui Reservoir's website prior to each event. For more imformations, please visit https://activity.feitsui.gov.tw/(Chinese).

How is the Emerald Tree Frog named?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:30:00 GMT

Rhacophorus prasinatus,the Emerald tree frog, was found near the Feitsui Reservoir area, and was therefore given the chinese name, "Feitsui" Tree Frog. In English through, it is commonly referred to as the "Emerald" tree frog due to its color. They are distributed primarily along the Nanshih and Peishih Creek basins and low elevation areas such as Xindian’s Guangxin, Wulai’s Wa-Wa valley, Yi-lan’s Fushan Botanical garden and Jiaoshi. It has an emerald green back ,black pupils and golden iries, and yellow-golden skin folds behind the eyes. The breeding season is from March to November of each year. Males and females vary in sizes, with the male body lengths reaching 5 to 6 centimeters, and females' can grow to 6 to 8 centimeters. They often inhabit in bushes, water containers, and ditches. Males croak in a short "gung” sound near waterside plants and females are attracted by it. Females lay pinkish foamy on plants, attaching them on branches and leaves.

Why is Rhododendron kanehirai wilson valuable?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:28:00 GMT

Rhododendron kanehirai wilson is an endemic of Taiwan. Its population distribution is the least and the narrowest among the 15 Ericaceaes in Taiwan. It was first discovered by Ernest Henry (E.H.) Wilson, a British botanist, in the Peishih creek riverside near Lu-zi lake in 1922. Its only habitat was submerged in water after the initial impounding of Feitsui dam in 1984. It was thought that the Rhododendron kanehirai wilson would disappear forever. Fortunately, it was declared as a precious rare species in August 20, 1988 by the government and after authorities concerned put in 10 years of restoration effort, the Rhododendron kanehirai wilson can once again be seen in the office area of Feitsui Reservoir, Feitsui dam site, and their original habitat. For over 20 years, the Feitsui Reservoir catchment area has been well managed to conserve the rich natural environment, which plays an important role on the reservoir site and in providing a clean and sufficient raw water to Metropolitan Taipei. We believe that we can achieve a balance between human welfare and nature’s prosperity between reservoir’s developments and environmental conservation.

What are the features of the Feitsui Fern Garden?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:20:00 GMT

Taiwan is a cornucopia of fern; a plethora of fern species is also preserved in Feitsui Reservoir. It is estimated that 22 families, 45 genus, and 110 species of ferns grow in the Feitsui Reservoir catchment area. In 2007, Feitsui Reservoir Administration cooperated with Hsi-Liu Environmental Greening Foundation to launch one of the first reservoir fern gardens in Taiwan. The garden is designed to demonstrate the evolution process of fern. For instance, Pslloyum nudum (L.) P. Beauv appeared 350 million years ago, Ophloglossum pendulum L., Angiopteris lygodiifolia, and Cyathea lepifera appeared over 200 million years ago, all of which can be found in the garden. Recently, more ferns have been added, such as Woodwardia polifera Hook. & Am., and Diplazium esculentum (Retz.) Sw., all of which appeared over 100 million years ago. Most of these ferns that grow at the bottom of the forest can not only prevent soil erosion, but also facilitate water conservation. Through the fern garden tour, visitors can understand the close relationship between water resources conservation and ecological conservation.

How is the water quality of Feitsui Reservoir?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:18:00 GMT

The reservoir’s water quality usually refers to the degree of eutrophication, commonly known as the Carlson’s Trophic State Index (CTSI).When CTSI is below 40,the water is in oligotrophic state (excellent quality). When CTSI is between 40 to 50, the water is in mesotrophic state (good quality); while over 50 the water is in poor quality (algae breeding and possible algae poisoning and smells will occur).

Over the years, in addition to actively coordinating and promoting catchment related conservation and anti-pollution work with other agencies. The “Storing Clear and Releasing Muddy” operation, aimed at reducing the amount of nutrients from siltation, contributed to the annual average of Mesotrophic state (good quality) measures of CTSI. In recent years, the water quality is in the Oligotrophic state.

How do you ensure the safety of Feitsui Dam?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:10:00 GMT

During the construction of the Feitsui Dam, a variety of monitoring instruments were embedded from within to help engineers monitor the safety and security of the dam, which is similar to a comprehensive physical check up of a human body. In addition, periodical and irregular site visual inspections are also carried out. In accordance with government regulations, the overall safety inspection of the dam has to be carried out by a third party professional assessment team, along with scholars, to evaluate the safety and structural behavior of the dam in every 5 years.

Will Feitsui Reservoir break during strong earthquakes?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:08:00 GMT

Due to the geolocation of Feitsui Reservoir near the Taipei metropolis, its geology and adjacent faults were properly investigated and evaluated in the stage of site selection. The design guideline of “No collapse in big earthquakes, no cracks in small earthquakes” was also adhered to and safety factors were also considered in the design of dam structure. Through years of seismic activity data collection and research, the average earthquake magnitude of Feitsui Reservoir is 1 to 2 magnitudes lower than that of Taipei City. With its double-curvature concrete arch dam and the strict supervision it underwent during its construction, Feitsui Dam has an excellent capacity for withstanding seismic activities.

How is the siltation situation of Feitsui Reservoir?

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 23:49:00 GMT

Since the initial impoundment of Feitsui Reservoir in July, 1984, Feitsui Reservoir has actively worked with other authorities to promote the catchment's area soil and water conservation, such as anti-silt sediment reduction. As of 2022, the cumulative sedimentation is 27.821 million cubic meters, which is 6.85% of the initial gross capacity of 406 million cubic meters. The average sediment is 723,000 cubic meters (0.2%), far lower than Peishih Creek's estimated sand transportation of 1.136 million cubic meters. In recent years, with hydraulic de-silting operation running, from 2020 to 2022, the average annual sediment is 312,000 cubic meters, which is only 0.1% of the reservoir's initial gross capacity. Therefore, sedimentation has no impact on the operation of the reservoir at present time.

Why does the water look red or yellow-brown?

Wed, 04 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Plumbing system is unlikely to degrade the quality of your water. If you use iron pipe in your house and the system is old, you may see a discoloration (red or yellow-brown) for a few minutes after turning on the faucet. Caused by erosion of iron pipes, it is not harmful in general.
If the phenomenon happens quite often, that might result from the iron sediments in the water mains. When a surge of pressure occurs, usually from a main break or a fire hydrant being used, the sediment becomes stirred into the water. Again, a regular flushing will help correct this problem.

How often should the household water tower and water tank be cleaned?

Wed, 04 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

The household water tower and water tank are prone to inviting pollution by insects, dusts, fuels, car exhausts, pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, and degreasers. Coliform bacteria, nitrates, and other health-hazardous concentrations may be formed and breed, contaminating the water in storage. So, water towers and tanks must be cleaned at least once a year. Hire a qualified water tower/tank cleaner to do the job pursuant to TWD’s relevant specifications.

Where should I buy a water filter or home treatment system?

Wed, 04 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

The decision is yours. Our water meets the stringent drinking water standards in Taiwan, R.O.C. and other advanced countries. You are not encouraged to install any treatment facility in your residence in Taipei. If you insist on buying a filter or system, do some homework first and be a smart purchaser. Be sure the function of the filter can meet your requirements and a reliable maintenance program is provided.

What is the basic charge in water rates?

Wed, 04 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

TWD is a public utility relying heavily on equipment for provision of water services. Basic charge is collected to cover part of the fixed expenses relating to equipment, such as depreciation, operation, and maintenance. More specifically, this practice is based on the following considerations:

(1) Beneficiaries shall pay: TWD has made a lot of investment on equipment and runs operations around the clock so as to satisfy customers, who hold the privilege of using water they need at any time. Based on the principle of payments for benefits, a water customer should help cover fixed expenses incurred by equipment no matter whether he uses water or not.

(2) Fair cost sharing among all users: Basic charges vary in a wide range, depending on the diameter of water meter installed. Households using larger-diameter meters gain access to more equipment resources and enjoy convenience in larger water flow, so they pay higher basic charges than their smaller-diameter counterparts. A unitary basic charge would imply that smaller-diameter households subsidize larger-diameter users.

(3) Various institutions, including the Consumers Foundation, had called for replacing the previous basic degree practice with the current water rates system that comprises basic charge plus charge for quantity actually consumed.

What are the Water Resources Conservation and Compensation Fees?

Wed, 04 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

To protect water sources, the government has to regulate the use of land in designated water source areas at the expense of local residents. The Water Resources Conservation and Compensation Fees are to be applied specially for the infrastructure for Water Resources Conservation and Environment / Ecology Conservation in the Water Quality and Quantity Protecting Area, as well as feed back in public welfare and compensation to restricted land for local residence. The unit rate for users is NT$0.5 per cubic meter.

How much water is there in 1 degree of tap water as read by the meter?

Wed, 04 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

1 degree = 1 cubic meter = 1,000 liters = 250 gallons = 800 bottles of soft drinks containing 1,250 cc each = 500 bottles of soft drinks containing 2,000 cc each

What is the Basis for calculation of basic charges ?

Wed, 04 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Based on (1) the standard basic charge of NT$34 monthly per household installed with a 13 mm water meter and (2) the pipe diameter equivalent value of all other sized meters, basic charges for all households are acquired by multiplying NT$34 by the equivalent values.

Diameter of Meter (mm)	13	20	25	40	50	75	100	150	200	250	300
Pipe diameter equivalent value	1	2	3.7	11	20	54	107	297	590	1,042	1,635
Monthly basic charge per household (NT$)	17(34)	68	126	374	680	1,836	3,638	10,098	20,060	35,428	55,590

To exemplify, let’s compare a13 mm and a 100 mm meters. Assuming same water pressure and friction coefficient, then the volume of water flow from a single 100 mm pipe equals the combined volume of water flows from 107 pieces of 13 mm pipes. Therefore, the basic charge of a household using a 100 mm meter = that using a 13 mm meter (NT$34) x 107 = NT$3,638.

Where can I file my complaints about water quality?

Tue, 03 May 2011 09:36:00 GMT

If you live in the Taipei Metropolis and have a concern regarding your tap water, please feel free to call us. Our telephone number is 8733-5678. We will answer your questions on the phone or make a field survey and examine the water quality for you. The service is free of charge.

What are THMs?

Tue, 03 May 2011 09:35:00 GMT

THMs stand for trihalomethanes. They are by-products of chlorine disinfection. When chlorine mixes with certain organic substances in water, THMs are formed. Animal studies have shown that high concentrations of THMs are a potential carcinogen. The National Drinking Water Regulations currently set the MCL (maximum contaminant level) for THMs as 80ppb (parts per billion). The tap water in Taipei has been tested regularly. All the data indicate that the level of THMs in your tap water is less than 10ppb, well below the MCL.

How do you disinfect the water in Taipei?

Tue, 03 May 2011 09:33:00 GMT

Water can be disinfected in several ways. The most common and time-proven method is chlorination. Chlorine is not only a very effective disinfectant in the treatment process; the residual chlorine in the distribution system can provide continuous disinfecting effect in the process of distribution as well. The level of residual chlorine hence can be regarded as an excellent telltale for water quality monitoring. Ozone is a very effective disinfectant too. But it does not remain in the water for long after it is applied.

How is the safety of your water protected after leaving water treatment plant?

Tue, 03 May 2011 09:31:00 GMT

The distribution system has safeguards to ensure the safety and hygiene of water after it leaves the treatment facilities. Briefly speaking, there are three measures employed to protect the water from being contaminated. They are a pressurized distribution system, maintenance of disinfection efficiency, and regular monitoring and testing program.

What is Taipei Water Department’s Water Quality Monitoring System?

Tue, 03 May 2011 09:30:00 GMT

TWD established its Automatic Water Quality Monitoring System in 1981 along with the initiation of the Safe Drinking Water Program. The system has enabled TWD to monitor the water quality in the raw water intakes, in the treatment process at purification plant, and in the distribution system. Consequently, it assures the quality of water supply and enhances TWD’s credibility.
We also take water samples from all water sources, Feitsui Reservoir, treatment plants, and consumers’ premises for analysis at our well-equipped laboratory. All test data prove that the water quality in Taipei is in good condition.

Where can I pay my water bill?

Mon, 02 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

You can pay it at convenience stores in Taipei. Even without a water charges notice, you can do that at one of the TWD units indicated here. Except the methods given above, there are other payment methods. You can pay your water bills on-line via internet banking and Automatic Recurring Credit Card Payments using the most secure on-line payment system available.

How should I apply for payment of water bills with my bank or post-office account?

Mon, 02 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Bring your latest water charges receipt, ID card, and seal to the bank or post office where you have opened an account, TWD Customer Service Center, or any of its district business offices and fill out an application form. Do the same if you want to terminate this arrangement.

Where should I file my application for initiation, suspension, and resumption of water supply ?

Mon, 02 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

At the Service Center or any of TWD’s district business offices. They are always ready to answer your inquiries and complaints about water supply and to provide advice and assistance you need.

Why is there sand in my tap water?

Mon, 02 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Main breaks and new main constructions in your neighborhood may bring sand into your tap water. In that case, the water is turbid. If the water is clear then the most probable source of sand is the filter media in the treatment plant. Flushing of the water pipes usually corrects the problem.

Why does the water look cloudy or like milk?

Mon, 02 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Cloudy or milky water is usually due to air bubbles in the water. Distribution pipes carry water under pressure, meaning air is dissolved in the water. These bubbles make a glass of water appear cloudy, but they will slowly rise and disappear. Just stand the water for a while or stir it gently. It will clear up.