Taiwan uses drones and native plants to restore landslide areas around Deji Reservoir

Taiwan's Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency is employing advanced technology to restore landslide-prone areas within the Deji Reservoir's watershed. Drones are now being used to sow native plant seeds, a method that minimizes risks and environmental disturbance in steep, inaccessible terrain. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the ecological resilience of the region.

Since 2013, the agency has been monitoring changes in landslide areas using satellite imagery, drones, and geographic information systems. These efforts have shown a reduction in the total landslide area from approximately 2,769 hectares in 2013 to 1,841 hectares in 2024. However, recent increases in landslide area in the Dajia River basin highlight the ongoing impact of natural disasters and geological conditions, necessitating continued monitoring and restoration.

Between 2024 and the present, the agency has introduced drone-based aerial seeding of native plant species in specific forest sections. This has covered about 1.7 hectares, achieving a vegetation recovery rate of approximately 24%. The program focuses on species like Miscanthus formosanus, Cynodon dactylon, and Eurya nitida, chosen for their suitability for the local environment. This strategy aims to stabilize slopes and promote natural recovery.

Future plans involve continuing these drone-seeding operations, with approximately 0.5 hectares targeted in 2026. The agency will maintain a strategy of phased seeding and continuous monitoring, adapting its approach based on recovery results. The ultimate goal is to strengthen soil and water conservation functions within the Deji Reservoir's watershed, contributing to national land security and environmental sustainability.