7944 2025-02-14 2025-02-18 09:21:46

To promote food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held a pigeon pea-themed food and agriculture education class on Friday, February 14, 2025 at Xianglan Elementary School in Taimali. Farmer Lyu Hung-wen, a winner of the Second Top Hundred Young Farmers award, instructed the students and teachers (39 in total).
The instructor first discussed the origins and uses of pigeon peas, including their nutritional value and their significance in traditional Taiwanese Indigenous culture as seen in a traditional dish: “warrior soup.” Students were given hands-on experience cultivating seedlings and turning the soil, and they learned about the plant’s growth characteristics and management methods. Pigeon peas usually must be cooked for a while before becoming edible, but the TTDARES has developed ready-to-eat pigeon peas, which the students were able to try out. These peas may be eaten directly or after being first soaked in water. Teachers present said that having a learning-by-doing class boosted the students’ motivation to learn and gave them a better understanding of the importance of the crop in the traditional Indigenous diet.

The instructor talks about millet growing and field management.　Students asking questions during the class.　All the students said the ready-to-eat pigeon peas were tasty.　Feedback and discussion time.　The instructor showing students how to plant pigeon pea seeds.　Students and teachers of Xianglan Elementary School.　

]]> 7943 2025-02-11 2025-02-17 10:33:22

To promote food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held a millet-themed food and agriculture education class on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at Wulu and Lidao Elementary Schools in Haiduan. Farmer Lin Chian-chung, a winner of the Fourth Top Hundred Young Farmers award, instructed the students and teachers (63 in total).
Lin used a fun interactive card game to give students an understanding of millet cultivation and management skills. The class made a deep impression on them because they also got to plant seeds of this traditional crop. Teachers present said that having the class themed on millet helped the students make a connection to their traditional culture and made them more familiar with their community’s environment and dietary culture.
The TTDARES holds classes annually for 23 elementary and junior high schools, for which local young farmers are invited to teach and promote food and agriculture education. With the farmers’ solid foundation of experience, they transmit well the spirit of food and agriculture education within the farming culture.

The instructor talks about millet growing and field management.　The instructor shows students how to remove millet husks.　Students husking millet.　Students learning about millet by playing a card game.　Students planting millet seeds.　Students and teachers of Wulu Elementary School.　Students and teachers of Lidao Elementary School.　

]]> 7942 2025-02-10 2025-02-13 15:12:22

The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held an annual award ceremony on the morning of February 8, 2025, at the TTDARES regional education center. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen welcomed attendees and wished them an auspicious, prosperous Year of the Snake. He thanked growers and farmers’ associations for their important contributions to agricultural extension in Taitung over the past year, especially for their help with important experiments, demonstrations, and promotion, which allowed for tasks to be conducted smoothly. He also encouraged those at the TTDARES to keep working hard to accomplish much and be farmers’ strongest pillar of support by supplying them with outstanding technology and services.

The TTDARES presented farmer Liang Cheng-hsian with a 34th National Model Farmer trophy for his contributions to the development of the Chishang rice industry and local public welfare services. Farmers Chiu Kuei-chun, Kuan Sheng-lin, Li Shu-chen, Fan Chih-hsi, Lin Pei-ying, Yeh Chen-ling, Cheng Su-chen, Hsieh Zong-hsian, and Chuang Cheng-hsiung were awarded for their outstanding collaboration on experiments with the TTDARES in the areas of grain production mechanization, organic rice black bug control, agricultural ecology surveillance, the promotion of food and agriculture education, agricultural product processing, and the integrated management of sugar apple production and related research on resilience. Also recognized were farmers’ association management staff members Yan Hsin-ling and Li Hung-chin for their support for young farmers, agrotourism, and homemakers classes. Moreover, certificates were given to those who performed exceptionally in the TTDARES’ 2024 Agricultural Industry Knowledge Passport Class. An atmosphere of warmth enveloped this celebration of achievements.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen gives an address and welcomes attendees at the event.　Director Chen presents farmer Liang Cheng-hsian with a 34th National Model Farmer trophy.　Group photo of all who received awards.　

]]> 7941 2025-01-10 2025-01-20 08:38:25 To present research achievements related to resilience and sustainability in agriculture, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Resilient, Sustainable Agriculture and Annual Experimental Research Achievements Conference on January 10, 2025, which was attended by over 190 people including experts in the industrial, administrative, and academic sectors and farmers. Experts and agricultural agency representatives gave lectures, and the TTDARES presented an annual report on major research achievements. The exchange of such knowledge and experience was aimed at helping more farmers come to understand the importance of resilience and sustainability so that all may work together to create an agricultural mode that is sustainable for the environment.
The conference was themed on resilient and sustainable agriculture and also included the TTDARES’ three core values (Indigenous people’s traditional crops, early ripening and full harvests, and organic LOHAS living) in the presentations while furthering exchanges between industry, the government, and academia. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the TTDARES has long furthered numerous kinds of agricultural technology R&D in the region to boost crop resilience to adversity while advancing sustainability through the circular use of resources, which are aimed at making the local agricultural industry safe, healthy, and competitive on the market. The TTDARES will continue focusing on the local area in developing more technology to make Taitung an example of the incorporation of social culture, technology, and agriculture, which will in turn bring glory to Taitung. 

Group photo of conference attendees.　TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) Department of Resource Sustainability head Chuang Lao-ta discusses international net-zero developments and the MOA’s net-zero strategies. 　National Pingtung University of Science and Technology Department of Plant Industry Assistant Professor Lee Chia-hsing talks about the influences of different agricultural management methods on soil carbon sequestration and microbial communities on low-altitude mountain slopes.　Liang Cheng-hsian of the rice company Do Re Mi shares about the challenges and resilience of the rice industry in Chishang.　Pineapple grower Lee Wan-chih from Luye shares about his eco-friendly farming experiences.　A display of the R&D achievements related to resilience and sustainability by the TTDARES.　

]]> 7940 2024-11-09 2024-11-27 17:21:54 On November 9, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the “Sustainable Food and Indigenous Flavors” TTDARES Open House. Those present included Executive Director Hung Tsung-kai of the Executive Yuan's Eastern Taiwan Joint Services Center, section chiefs Kuo Kai-ti and Hou Hui-ju of the Ministry of Agriculture, Deputy Director Chen Chi-tsun of the Eastern Region Branch of the Agriculture and Food Agency, Department Director Chiang Hui-ching of the Taitung County Government, Chairperson Yang Chao-hsin of the Taitung County Farmers’ Association, and nearly a thousand other people.
Kuo stated that food and agriculture education is a major part of the Ministry of Agriculture’s policy to reinforce people’s identity with and support of Taiwanese agricultural products and close the gap between the field and the table. In recent years, the ministry has actively guided Indigenous communities in transitioning to organic farming as part of the nation’s effort to become carbon-neutral. This year, the ministry proposed a policy of “smart, resilient, sustainable, and healthy” agriculture. In the aspect of sustainability, it is placing importance on maintaining quality as well as recycling in agricultural production and the use of ecological resources. The ministry hopes to garner more public support for Taiwanese agriculture and its farmers. 
The event was divided into the two categories of “Indigenous People’s Traditional Crops” and “Sustainable Farming.” Also, young farmers from Taitung led several food and agriculture experiences. Aside from learning about technological developments in agriculture, attendees experienced the charm of Indigenous communities and were inspired to identify with the importance of sustainable agriculture.

Director Hung Tsung-kai of the Executive Yuan's Eastern Taiwan Joint Services Center gives an address.　TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen speaks at the opening.　Group photo of government agency leaders.　Dancers from National Taitung Senior Commercial Vocational High School give attendees a taste of Indigenous culture.　Attendees learn about farming hands-on in the DIY area.　Attendees enjoying their time at the event.　Prize winners from the Taitung Indigenous Village Creative Food Contest show their cuisine in the “Master Chefs” area.　Group photo of the TTDARES staff.　

]]> 7939 2024-09-27 2024-11-05 16:57:31 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the use of chemical fertilizers, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held the Application of Slow-release Side-deep Fertilizers in Rice Fields Demonstration Event on September 27, 2024, at the demonstration field of grower Huang Shih-ming, hosted by TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song. During the event, side-deep fertilization techniques with slow-release fertilizers were shown to growers. In the demonstration field, 63.7 kilograms of three major fertilizer elements (nitrogen, phosphorus pentoxide, and potassium oxide) were reduced per hectare, and there were 2.4 fewer kilograms of nitrous oxide emissions than in the control field, which corresponds to 636 fewer kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions per hectare. In addition, rice yield brought about a profit increase of NT$5,940 per hectare.

TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song hosts the Application of Slow-release Side-deep Fertilizers in Rice Fields Demonstration Event. 　Growers who attended the event.　

]]> 7938 2024-09-18 2024-09-18 13:39:35 To boost specialty crop cultivation and application capacity for farmers and introduce innovative management ideas, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Farmers’ Academy—Advanced Class on Specialty Crop Cultivation in Taitung and Value-Added Applications beginning on September 4, 2024. The class integrated specialty crop production, processing, and marketing management in discussing the main points of six-sector industrialization. For production, TTDARES staff introduced the features of specialty crop propagation and important aspects of cultivation technique. Participants tried their hands at cutting propagation, which will ensure a stable supply of raw materials in the future. Regarding processing and value-added applications, participants learned through a DIY activity to process raw materials into marketable products as well as direction for value-added development. As for marketing management, the speakers talked about commercial management modes and digital tools, and professionals in the industry shared about their experiences in product development. There was also an on-site hands-on activity to inspire participants with innovative ideas and prepare them for getting into six-sector industrialization. The TTDARES reminded participants that before they invest themselves in specialty crops, they should appraise the state of market channels and product differentiation and gain an understanding of related laws and regulations to ensure smooth operations. Participants were enthusiastically invited to ask the TTDARES in the future for professional advice on questions about cultivation and basic-level processing techniques. 

Participants try their hands at cutting propagation of jiuqu, the traditional starter for millet wine made by Indigenous people.　Participants observe herbs being cultivated at the Fanzhangyuan Farm.　Participants making essential oil and herbal distillates from tea tree leaves.　A participant processing herbs into a marketable product.　Instruction on innovative management applications in the agricultural industry.

]]> 7949 2024-09-06 2025-02-21 09:02:22

To drive a healthy crop management system and encourage sugar apple farmers to produce safe, high-quality fruit, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held the Outstanding Sugar Apple Orchard Demonstration Event at the farm of Hsieh Tsung-hsian (second-place winner of the 2024 Outstanding Sugar Apple Orchard Contest) on September 6, 2024. Healthy sugar apple orchard management points were shared at the event, and Hsieh shared his experiences in the field and his thoughts on joining the Taiwan Good Agricultural Practice (TGAP) system, which is a product traceability system. 36 farmers and other people attended and enthusiastically participated in discussion and exchanges. Hsieh stated that being part of the TGAP system has been quite helpful with risk control/management and provides a competitive edge on the market—he has even gone a step further by joining the TGAP PLUS system. The TTDARES emphasized that it takes an outstanding orchard to produce outstanding fruit so as to encourage farmers to implement healthy management and maintain the Taitung sugar apple industry’s competitive edge.

Figure 1. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Figure 2. Farmer Hsieh Tsung-hsian shares his orchard management experience.

]]> 7948 2024-08-28 2025-02-21 09:02:11

To promote the use of the Agriculture Disaster Prevention Line Group (which allows farmers to receive real-time weather and crop disaster prevention information on the instant messaging app Line), enhance the resilience of fruit trees, and reinforce sugar apple pest and disease management techniques, the TTDARES held the Fruit Tree Disaster Prevention Information and Sugar Apple Pest and Disease Integrated Management Techniques Seminar on the morning of August 28, 2024 at the Taimali Farmers’ Association in Taitung County. The use of the Agriculture Disaster Prevention and Weather Information Platform and techniques on preventing/reducing fruit tree damage from natural disasters were discussed at the event. By obtaining timely alerts and making use of appropriate techniques, farmers may reduce losses in the face of natural disasters. In addition, staff from the TTDARES Plant Protection Laboratory discussed techniques for the safe use of agrochemicals to boost sugar apple quality and safety. 52 growers and other people attended and enthusiastically participated in the event.

Figure 1. TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song hosts the event.　Figure 2. Assistant researcher Chen Po-yuan discusses information on fruit tree disaster prevention.

]]> 7947 2024-08-21 2025-02-21 09:02:01

Longicorn beetles and Formosan rock monkeys have long bothered fruit farmers, and dealing with them while not harming the environment has been a challenging issue of urgency. After years of research and experimentation, the TTDARES has developed physical means to eliminate longicorn beetle larvae (with a high-pressure air gun) and to keep monkeys away from trees (with a mesh cover). At the TTDARES Banchiu Branch Station orchard in Binlang on August 21, 2024, the TTDARES held the Eco-friendly Fruit Tree Monkey and Longicorn Beetle Control Techniques and Agriculture Disaster Prevention Information Seminar to provide farmers with related information. Also, to make it easier for farmers to obtain information on the weather to prevent disaster and to help them with applying for relief after natural disasters, an app for taking pictures of affected land was introduced at the event with the aim of reducing farmers’ losses.

Figure 1. TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song hosts the event.　Figure 2. Two layers of mesh cover being wrapped around a tree to keep monkeys away.

]]> 7937 2024-07-18 2024-08-01 10:41:42 To add another fun activity to rural seniors’ lives, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture worked with the local Farmers’ Association this year in implementing the Agricultural Integrated Consulting and Advisory System Program. On July 11 and 18 at the Chenggong Farmers’ Association, the Mounted Fern DIY Class (part of the Green Care series) was held. 50 people attended and learned about how to care for ferns. The event will also serve as a reference for the planning of future Green Care classes.Since ferns grow with relatively few stringent environmental needs because they are highly adaptable, as long as the soil is kept moist and they are well-shaded, they grow strong, making them perfect as a fun horticultural activity for seniors. In the class, participants not only learned how to care for ferns but also were able to exercise their creativity, boosting their sense of participation and confidence. And of course, doing things with your hands and working with greenery are physically and psychologically therapeutic. The class included the sections “Understanding Mounted Ferns and Their Applications” and “Care for Mounted Ferns—Skills and DIY.” The instructors discussed the growth habits and environmental needs of ferns, and participants made mounted projects of various forms, exhibiting their unique creativity. Participants said the class provided them with professional horticultural knowledge and that they look forward to using what they have learned to share the fun with their families and friends, adding another pleasant activity to life in rural Taitung. 

Deputy Director Lu Po-song speaks at the opening.　An instructor talks about ferns.　Participants working together.　Participants proudly showing off their work.

]]> 7936 2024-06-28 2024-07-22 10:58:19 To enhance farmwork efficiency through automation, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Farmers’ Academy—Advanced Class on Agricultural Machinery Operation and Maintenance from June 26 to 28, 2024. Instructors customized the class based on the participants’ backgrounds and practical needs in teaching about operation principles for such commonly used machinery as two-stroke and four-stroke engines, chainsaws, backpack brushcutters, self-propelled lawnmowers, remote-controlled brushcutters, high-pressure power sprayers, tea harvesters, inter-row cultivators, transport vehicles, and tractors. They talked in detail about mechanical structure, basic maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of the machines accompanied by demonstrations in the field to help participants learn what was being taught. Thus, the class established important concepts of machinery operation and taught participants how to independently maintain their tools, which will help boost the use of farm machinery in the future. 

An instructor talks about operational principles for a high-pressure power sprayer.　A participant listens to an assistant instructor while driving a tractor.　A student tries his hand at disassembling and maintaining a backpack brushcutter.　Group photo of participants.

]]> 7946 2024-06-25 2025-02-21 09:01:49

The TTDARES has developed effective, eco-friendly (no agrochemicals required) fruit tree pest and disease management approaches based on “eco-power” that match with a variety of field management measures and the use of organic materials. At the TTDARES Banchiu Branch Station orchard in Binlang on June 25, 2024, the TTDARES held the Eco-friendly Fruit Tree Pest and Disease Management Techniques and Agriculture Disaster Prevention Information Seminar to provide farmers with related information. In addition, June falls in the typhoon season, and since obtaining typhoon information is important to increase farmers’ capacity to respond, the Agriculture Disaster Prevention and Weather Information Platform was introduced, which makes it easier for farmers to be aware of related information so that they may take preventive measures in advance to reduce losses when bad weather is expected.

Figure 1. TTDARES Banchiu Branch Director Jiang Shu-wen hosts the event. 　Figure 2. Dr. Wang Chi-wei demonstrates how to prepare and use lime sulfur, which is an eco-friendly material for pest and disease control.

]]> 7934 2024-06-21 2024-06-26 14:22:14 To boost the production skills of Indigenous people and promote the development of their special crops, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held the Reinvigorating Indigenous Village Spirit Mobile Classroom on June 21, 2024, on Orchid Island. The class focused on grain cultivation techniques, an introduction to and demonstration of labor-saving machinery for millet production, and the promotion of organic certification and the eco-friendly farming system. By helping locals learn to boost cultivation skills and encouraging them to obtain the certification and employ eco-friendly methods, they can ensure sustainability for their special crops. Also, five millet variety germplasms were brought back to the island in the hope that the crops will see sustained, thriving production and with the goal of millet being preserved and promoted in all the communities on Orchid Island, contributing more to Indigenous culture preservation and agricultural industry development.

Section chief Chen Chen-I gives an address and welcomes participants at the beginning of the class.　Assistant researcher Chang Fang-kui discusses grain cultivation techniques.　A ceremony is held for returning millet germplasms to Orchid Island.　

Chairperson Liao Chia-chu introduces organic certification and the eco-friendly farming system.　Associate researcher Huang Cheng-lung introduces labor-saving machinery for growing millet.　Participants watched demonstrations to boost their understanding of safe machinery operation.

]]> 7935 2024-06-06 2024-07-08 14:43:45 Rice black bugs have been a major problem in Guanshan, Taitung, causing massive losses to farmers. To resolve the problem, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture began using the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (TDMA01). On June 6, 2024, in the fields of farmer Kuan Sheng-lin in Chishang, the Organic Rice Black Bug and Major Rice Pest/Disease Prevention Technology Demonstration Event was held. In March, the TTDARES detected significant damage from rice black bugs in ten hectares of Chishang’s organic rice fields, which if gone untreated could have resulted in a loss of about one-third of the crop. After treatment, including the use of Metarhizium anisopliae provided by the TTDARES, the number of bugs dramatically decreased. The government is actively promoting the reduced usage of agrochemicals and encouraging eco-friendly farming strategies so that the agriculture industry may be safe and sustainable. Now, the rice black bug problem in Chishang is under control. Farmers are encouraged to report any resurgence in infestation to cooperating rice mills, the Farmers’ Association, or the TTDARES as soon as it arises to ensure proper control measures are taken.

TTDARES Deputy Director Lu hosts the Organic Rice Black Bug and Major Rice Pest/Disease Prevention Technology Demonstration Event.　Assistant researcher Wang Chi-wei discusses rice black bug prevention measures taken in farmer Kuan Sheng-lin’s field.　Miaoli District Agricultural Research and Extension Station associate researcher Wu Yi-hui talks about using a species of Telenomus wasp, a natural enemy of the rice black bug.　Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute assistant researcher Chen Yi-nian shares about major rice pest/disease prevention technology.　Farmer Kuan Sheng-lin shares about the effects of the organic rice black bug control treatment in his field.

]]> 7931 2024-05-30 2024-06-03 09:26:24 In response to the impact climate change has had on the fruit industry, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture, the Food and Fertilizer Technology Center for the Asian and Pacific Region (FFTC), and the Fengshan Tropical Horticultural Experiment Branch of the Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute (TARI Fengshan) jointly held the 2024 DFNet Field Trip and Forum from May 29 to 30, 2024, which was also attended by representatives from the International Cooperation and Development Fund among the total of 71 experts and distinguished guests from 18 countries. Participants visited farms to see disaster-prevention measures in fruit orchards, a citrus nursery, and smart farming and black bug control for rice. During the forum, experts from various countries shared suggestions and what they have done with their fruit trees to cope with climate change. The enthusiastic engagement of participants strengthened Taitung’s agricultural connection to the global community and established a solid foundation for future international collaboration. 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen gives an address at the opening.　FFTC Director Chang Su-san gives an address at the opening.　TARI Fengshan Director Lee Wen-li gives an address at the opening.　Researchers from various countries at a ta-mu sugar apple orchard in Taitung.　Researchers from various countries at an atemoya orchard in Taitung.　Researchers from various countries learn about the production process of citrus seedlings in Taitung.　Group photo at the end of the field survey, where experts and researchers engaged in lively exchange.　Group photo at the end of the forum, where 71 experts and researchers from 18 countries enthusiastically interacted.

]]> 7932 2024-05-29 2024-06-07 15:06:33 To assist allies and developing nations in human resource development and collaboration, the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund invites foreign officials to come to Taiwan for a variety of workshops on such subjects as economics/commerce, agriculture, SMEs, IT, and public health/medical care. 20 mid-level government officials and researchers attended this Workshop on AI in Agrotechnology. To gain an understanding of Taitung’s smart agricultural applications in rice management and pest/disease monitoring technology, the workshop was held in Guanshan on May 29, 2024, where participants visited a small demonstration field belonging to the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture to observe how a smart monitoring system works in rice cultivation and field management. Also shown was an experimental field for organic rice black bug control, where the seedlings are planted later than usual and a formula containing Metarhizium robertsii alongside the bug’s natural enemy, a species of Telenomus wasp, are used to effectively lower the threat of the bugs and thus better ensure farmers’ harvests. Those who came engaged in enthusiastic discussion with TTDARES staff. 

Assistant researcher Liao Ching-ying talks about the small demonstration rice field and the smart monitoring system used.　Section chief Tsai Shu-jen discusses organic prevention measures for black bugs.　Those who came engaged in enthusiastic discussion with TTDARES staff.　Group photo of the visitors and TTDARES staff.　

]]> 7933 2024-05-02 2024-06-17 11:39:28 Many fruit trees that need to be pruned regularly and those that naturally lose their leaves are susceptible to sunscald as the bark has no protection from the sun. To prevent this, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Fruit Tree Sunscald Prevention Demonstration Event on May 2, 2024, at the orchard of Yu Yingru, a member of the Beinan Production and Marketing Group No. 46, to explain and show how to prevent sunscald. The main formula is light calcium carbonate and white glue, which is applied to the bark from an air-blast sprayer vehicle. This reduces the temperature of the bark, in turn preventing cracking. It is a low-cost, safe, and convenient method. Lime and sulfur may also be added to the mixture as an anti-pest/disease measure. Attendees discussed the topic enthusiastically. The TTDARES hopes growers will pay attention to the problem of sunscald to ensure their trees stay healthy.

TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song hosts the Fruit Tree Sunscald Prevention Demonstration Event.　A demonstration of the use of an air-blast sprayer vehicle to apply the sunscald prevention formula.　

]]> 7945 2024-04-24 2025-02-21 09:01:37

Weeds, which can be a form of groundcover, play quite an important role in the ecology. If the groundcover in an orchard has biodiversity, it will invite the arrival of pests’ natural enemies and lead to antagonism, thus helping in the battle against pests and diseases. A diversity of vegetation directly and indirectly positively affects the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil and enhances its fertility. Weeds have always been a problem for farmers, so to ensure proper care for orchards and help reduce farmers’ workloads, the TTDARES held the Eco-friendly Orchard Groundcover (Weeds) Management Techniques and Agriculture Disaster Prevention Information Seminar at the TTDARES Banchiu Branch Station orchard in Binlang on April 24, 2024, at which integrated management techniques developed for orchard groundcover were shared with farmers. Also, to increase farmers’ capacity to respond to natural disasters, the Agriculture Disaster Prevention and Weather Information Platform was introduced and demonstrated at the event. The platform provides information to help farmers take preventive measures in advance to reduce losses when bad weather is expected.

Figure 1. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event. 　Figure 2. Demonstrations of a variety of groundcover management techniques were given at a TTDARES orchard.　　　

]]> 7930 2024-04-19 2024-04-30 08:26:51 To promote millet cultivation and the preservation of the millet culture, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held the Millet Seed Conservation Achievement Conference on April 19, 2024 at the Indigenous community of Taromak, at which different varieties of millet spikes were exhibited. Also, the features of the millet germplasm, along with millet cultivation management and seed conservation techniques, were discussed, and germplasm resources were given back to the community. 44 varieties were on display from seven Indigenous communities. These varieties were first collected by US scholars in 1977, and in 2010, National Taiwan University Professor Warren Kuo brought them back to Taiwan from the US, increasing the quantity through cultivation by the TTDARES and finally bringing seeds back to the Indigenous communities. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen and Eastern Region Branch of the Agriculture and Food Agency Deputy Director Chen Chi-tsun gave germplasm resources of three millet varieties originally from Taromak back to community leader Danaro Lavalius. Then, TTDARES assistant researcher Chang Fang-kuei introduced the features of the millet germplasm and talked about cultivation management and seed preservation techniques. All in all, the event promoted more attention and support for the preservation of Indigenous culture and agricultural development. 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen (left) and Eastern Region Branch of the Agriculture and Food Agency Deputy Director Chen Chi-tsun (right) gave germplasm resources of three millet varieties to Taromak community leader Danaro Lavalius.　TTDARES assistant researcher Chang Fang-kuei introduced the features of the millet germplasm and seed preservation techniques.　Those who attended were able to see the spikes of different millet varieties.

]]> 7929 2024-04-12 2024-04-02 17:26:54 As part of the government’s food and agriculture education policy, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held a food and agriculture class themed on millet on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the Xinwu Branch of Chulai Elementary School in Haiduan Township, which was attended by a total of 31 participants, including students, teachers, and elders from the community. Lin Chien-chung, one of the Top Hundred Young Farmers (4th edition) and a member of the Paiwan Sapulju community in Jinfeng Township, was the instructor and spoke about millet cultivation techniques and devices to keep birds away. He engaged in exchange with the elders regarding the millet culture and, through the use of educational props, taught the students and teachers about the methods and forms of millet use as well as bird-damage prevention. The local elders enthusiastically shared about the traditional importance of millet farming in their Bunun culture. Through such interaction, the students gained a deeper understanding of and respect for their millet culture. A student surnamed Hu said it is interesting that recycled aluminum cans and nylon rope can be used to make devices to keep birds away. One of the elders stated that the class brought back sweet memories from the past of tilling and harvesting in the fields with their family. The class was aimed at helping all involved experience the allure of millet and allowing the young and old to learn together in a positive atmosphere, a manifestation of the format diversity with which food and agriculture education can take place.

The instructor talks about how to use traditional bird-repelling devices.　Young students and the elderly learn how to hull millet together.　An elder from the local community talks about a traditional millet blessing ritual aimed at attaining protection from the ancestors and a good millet crop. 　Students learn to make traditional bird-repelling devices with aluminum cans.　Students give manually tilling a field a try.　Group photo of all who attended.

]]> 7928 2024-03-20 2024-03-25 11:12:22 As part of the government’s food and agriculture education policy, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held a food and agriculture class themed on millet at Zhiben Elementary School on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, which was attended by a total of 40 students and teachers. Lin Chien-chung, one of the Top Hundred Young Farmers (4th edition) was the instructor and spoke about the way millet is eaten and its nutritional value. Millet is a traditional food and the oldest crop of Taiwanese Indigenous people, and it is thus viewed as the most sacred of crops by them. To help students better understand millet spikes and seeds, millet and djulis spikes were brought to show students how to distinguish between the two. The students were also taught how to remove and hull the kernels. They then learned to plant millet in rows. After the class, a student surnamed Hu expressed how interesting it is that millet and djulis differ not only in spike color but in the size and color of their hulled kernels too. Teachers who participated said they believe the event helped the kids understand more about this traditional crop of Indigenous people. We look forward to more schools choosing to traditional crops as instructional materials in organizing food and agriculture education classes that have a local flavor.

The instructor talks about how to distinguish between millet and djulis spikes.　Students try their hand at hulling millet.　The students enthusiastically asked questions and interacted with the instructor.　Students learn how to use farming tools.　Students plant millet seeds in rows.　Students and teachers at Zhiben Elementary School who participated in the event.

]]> 7927 2024-03-15 2024-03-11 09:11:58 Atemoyas are one of Taitung’s major exports. To save time and money spent on preparing them for export, which, among other things, conventionally requires manually removing mealybugs with blown air, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture has developed an integrated system using a fruit basket lifting device, a crop cleaning device, and a produce sleeving device. The system was shown at the Atemoya Collection Center Cleaning and Sleeving Machinery Demonstration Event, held on the morning of February 21, 2024, at the Sunshine Farm Produce Packaging Plant. The crop cleaner washes the fruits and then blows air on them to remove and collect 100% of the mealybugs before moving the fruits to an isolated area so the bugs may not get back on the fruits. The machinery is about the size of a 20-foot shipping container, and with only three operators, it can process 1,000 boxes (containing a total of about 9,000 fruits) in nine hours. Such quantity manually processed would take an average of 8.3 workers. With the help of the fruit basket lifting device and the produce packaging device, the cost of human labor is greatly diminished. Those who attended were highly impressed with the all-in-one arrangement. 

Figure 1. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Atemoya Collection Center Cleaning and Sleeving Machinery Demonstration Event.　Figure 2. Associate researcher Huang Cheng-lung shows how to use the all-in-one cleaning and sleeving machinery.　Figure 3. Growers and others in the industry were highly impressed.

]]> 7926 2024-01-19 2024-02-17 08:32:40 To present Taitung’s local dietary culture, Indigenous farming culture, and technological R&D achievements, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Conference on Food and Agriculture Education, Indigenous People’s Traditional Crops, and Annual Experimental Research and Promotion Achievements at the TTDARES regional education center on January 19, 2024. 211 representatives from Taitung’s agricultural agencies and farmers attended the event. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the TTDARES works hard on developing cultivation technology for all kinds of Indigenous people’s traditional crops, carrying forward traditional Indigenous farming wisdom, promoting food and agriculture education at schools throughout the county, fostering an agricultural environment full of local features, and encouraging healthy diets. As a result, this year’s conference revolved around both food and agriculture education and Indigenous people’s traditional crops. While focusing on the TTDARES’ core values of Indigenous people’s traditional crops, early ripening and full harvests, and organic LOHAS living, all kinds of issues were discussed, and a wealth of information was presented. Aside from speeches by experts and representatives from agricultural agencies, the TTDARES shared about its major achievements over the past year. By bringing people from various sectors together, the event aimed to inspire innovative thought while boosting Taitung’s agricultural development based on local industry development demands.

Figure 1. A large number of people attended the Experimental Research Achievements Conference.　Figure 2. Posters on the TTDARES’ R&D achievements in food and agriculture education and Indigenous people’s traditional crops.

]]> 7925 2023-10-23 2023-11-06 16:02:07 To create a pleasant living environment for seniors, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Chishang Farmers’ Association teamed up in launching the 2023 Integrated Consultation System Program, for which the 2023 Green Care – Mounted Fern DIY Class was held on October 23, 24, 30, and 31 at the Chishang Farmers’ Association Green Care Station with 50 participants. The aim was to provide knowledge on growing ferns to people involved in green care and was a step for the TTDARES in planning more useful green care classes.
The TTDARES stated that the green care policy initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture is aimed at promoting the agriculture industry mainly through the channel of health. Multifunctional agriculture can help seniors be healthier and live better lives. In 2021 and 2022, the TTDARES helped farmers’ and fishermen’s associations design healthy succulent-based events for seniors. This year, ferns were the medium of choice. The TTDARES looks to create diverse, fun DIY classes through which seniors may relax physically and mentally and enjoy a friendly living environment. All the participants gave the event a thumbs-up. Green care classes with natural materials allow people to interact with both plants and others in a fun way to reduce stress. Through such activities, the TTDARES wants to expand the multifunctional value of the agriculture industry and contribute to making rural areas into “happiness villages.”

Participants make mounting boards.　A participant talks with an instructor.　A participant learns to attach a fern to a mounting board.　Participants happily show off mounted ferns they made on their own.

]]> 7924 2023-10-16 2023-11-02 14:39:09 In implementing food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held a class on millet with Kao Shih-chung, who was named one of the 2nd Top 100 Young Farmers, as the speaker on October 16 (Monday), 2023, at Haiduan Township’s Wulu Elementary School and its branch school in Lidao (Taitung’s school with the highest elevation: 1,068 meters). The class gave teachers and students (23 in total) a closer look at the agricultural industry and, in particular, taught them about cultivating millet and the grain’s connection to the locality.
Haiduan is home to the Bunun people, for whom the new year traditionally begins in November with a ceremony for preparing the land to plant millet, making apparent the grain’s importance to their culture. The way millet is used and its symbolic meaning in Indigenous culture were discussed. Kao Shih-chung, a Paiwan farmer from Jinfeng Township, engaged in an exchange about millet with the students and teachers. Through the use of props, students were introduced to different varieties and their uses and shown how to keep birds away. As for the hands-on aspect, they were taught how to plant millet in an empty plot of land on the campus at Wulu and in pots at the Lidao campus. By integrating instruction on Indigenous people’s millet culture, the class also served as a means of transmitting cultural heritage and was highly affirmed by the participants.

A student tries out a traditional tool for keeping birds away.　A student uses a traditional millet sifter.

]]> 7923 2023-10-13 2023-11-02 14:37:11 In implementing food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held a class on millet with Kao Shih-chung, who was named one of the 2nd Top 100 Young Farmers, as the speaker on October 13 (Friday), 2023, at Sanmin Elementary School in the town of Chenggong. The class gave teachers and students (105 in total) a closer look at the agricultural industry and, in particular, taught them about cultivating millet and the grain’s connection to the locality.
First, the way millet is used and its symbolic meaning in Indigenous culture were discussed. Through the use of props, students were introduced to different varieties and their uses and shown how to keep birds away. As for the hands-on aspect, students were taught how to plant millet. Teachers at the school expressed that such hands-on instruction allowed students to not only experience the fun of farming but also see how hard farmers work to produce foods we eat and gain an understanding of millet in Indigenous culture, all of which contribute to fostering a sense of care for the land in students.

The speaker talking to the students.　Students planting millet.

]]> 7922 2023-09-27 2023-10-17 08:52:09 To promote the features of the Indigenous dietary culture and to spur regional Lohas agrotourism development through food R&D in Indigenous communities, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held the Taitung Indigenous Village Creative Food Contest beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at the Eastern Taiwan Vocational Training Center. Ten teams, including business owners and those from Tian-Mama restaurants and Homemakers Classes, from Indigenous communities all over Taitung County participated in the event.
Millet was the theme of the contest, and other traditional Indigenous ingredients were used as well, especially those produced locally. Contestants had to complete a meal for eight people within two hours. The meal had to include a main course, a signature dish, two sides, a soup, and a beverage. The aim is to use Indigenous-community ingredients to create economic benefits while adding more choices to the agrotourism industry in Indigenous communities, in turn generating more business opportunity and developing agrotourism with local features.
In the end, Qapulu (a coffee shop) won first place. Second place was taken by Tribe Walk/Work and Bulamilashang Inn. Third went to the Xinxing Homemakers Class – Cipuwa Community, the Tian-Mama Restaurant at the Rice School in Guanshan, and the Chinong Tian-Mama Restaurant. Millet Classroom, Long-a Shop (supported by the Duoliang Community Development Association and the Third Grain Production and Marketing Group of the Taimali Farmers’ Association) Zhu’en Jiugugu Workshop, and Zouyitang Bunun Children’s Playground all won creativity awards.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the opening.　Contestants at work.　Judges evaluating food.　A judge discusses the evaluation.　Group photo of contestants.　The winning meal.

]]> 7921 2023-09-13 2023-10-03 09:22:00 To support and promote agricultural development and provide guidance for technical advancement in Indigenous communities, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Ministry of Agriculture held the Indigenous Agricultural Industry Mobile Classroom on August 4, 9, and 11 in Chishang and Jinfeng. Promoting the mechanization of millet transplanting is aimed at lowering the costs of field management and reducing the need for labor.
Millet is an extremely important staple among Indigenous communities and holds great cultural value. The East Rift Valley and the region along the South Link Highway in Taitung are major sites of production. As young Indigenous people are leaving their hometowns and as the population ages, the industry has long faced an insufficiency of labor, causing millet-farming hectarage to fall over time. But in recent years, demand for the crop has grown, so to effectively boost agricultural development in Taitung’s Indigenous communities, the TTDARES has promoted a series of machinery for cultivation management and postharvest processing. With labor-saving, high-performance machinery, Indigenous communities are being helped to overcome the problem of the labor shortage, in turn boosting people’s willingness to grow millet. In comparison with traditional line sowing and broadcast sowing, the seedling and transplanting technology developed this year by the TTDARES reduces the quantity of seed needed by 40-70% and enhances the seedling survival rate. In addition, weeding costs are reduced in the early growth stage, and there is less need for thinning, which makes it easier for a grower to handle the workload alone. People can choose from different types of machinery based on the size of their fields, topography, and labor supply. During educational events held in Indigenous communities, the TTDARES offers guidance on field and industry management while providing innovative technology and information to increase people’s farming know-how and thus inject new life into agricultural development in the communities.

A lecturer talks about millet and djulis cultivation management technology to increase farmers’ knowledge of crop production.　A lecturer discusses and demonstrates the use of a millet germination tray.　A lecturer introduces a four-pronged millet transplanter to boost efficiency.　A single-pronged millet transplanter is readily learned and great for small areas.　Millet seedlings growing after being transplanted.

]]> 7916 2023-08-12 2023-08-15 14:55:02 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension station (TTDARES) and the Jinfeng township office jointly conducted the first quality evaluation of the aboriginal millet in the South-link area, which was successfully completed on August 12.
The evaluation is divided into three stages. The first stage is to detect pesticide residues, moisture content and bulk density of unhulled millet. The second stage is to check the impurities, imperfect grains and uniformity of the hulled millet. The third stage is the sensory evaluation, in which four judges evaluate the color, texture, taste and smell of the cooked pure millet rice (Fig. 1). The scores of the three stages were summed up for evaluation. This time the competition was fierce and the results were hard to distinguish. In the end, Hu Ming-Zhi won the first place in this millet quality evaluation (Fig. 2).
Chen Hsin-Yen, director of TTDARES, said that the south-link area of Taitung is the main production area of the millet in Taiwan. In order to enhance the visibility of " South-link millet " and promote the industrial development of the aboriginal millet, we allow farmers to learn from each other through the open and fair millet evaluation, so that farmers' cultivation techniques can be more sophisticated, and friendly farming is more valued. It is expected that the quality and brand characteristics of " South-link Millet " will be fully improved.

Fig. 1. The sensory evaluation process of the third stage of millet quality evaluation.　Fig. 2. Hu Ming-Zhi won the south-link area aboriginal millet quality evaluation champion in 2023.　Fig. 3. Chen Hsin-Yen, director of TTDARES, gave an encouraging speech.

　　　　　

]]> 7917 2023-08-08 2023-08-15 16:57:11 In accordance with organizational restructuring at the Ministry of Agriculture, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held a sign unveiling at 11:00 in the morning on August 8 to mark reaching a new milestone. Lee Hung-hsi, head of the ministry’s Science and Technology Department, attended the ceremony to witness this important moment in history, as did representatives from the Executive Yuan’s Eastern Taiwan Joint Services Center, the Eastern Branch of the Agriculture and Food Agency, the Taitung County Government, the Taitung County Farmers’ Association, farmers’ associations in various communities of Taitung, and the Young Farmers’ Union.
In her speech, Lee stated that the restructuring proclaims that the ministry and the TTDARES not only must be organized in a more precise and more efficient way to respond to the needs of those in the agricultural sector but also must stand with farmers as one by continuing to support agriculture in Taiwan and Taitung. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the TTDARES would keep to the three-pronged R&D developmental direction of “Indigenous people’s traditional crops, early ripening and full harvests, and organic LOHAS living,” working hard at variety breeding, technology R&D, promotion, and education. In addition, the TTDARES has in recent years become greatly involved in organic, eco-friendly farming R&D, the promotion of food and agriculture education, consultation in obtaining food safety certification, and training residents of Indigenous communities, all in an effort to achieve a variety of win-wins with farmers and create a sustainable, exceptional agricultural environment.

The TTDARES holds a sign unveiling attended by leaders of various organizations.　Lee Hung-hsi, head of the Science and Technology Department at the Ministry of Agriculture, gives a speech at the event.　Director Chen Hsin-yen gives a speech at the event.　The sign unveiling comes to an end.

　　　　　

]]> 7919 2023-07-12 2023-09-06 17:11:27 To advance the plan for organic farming development in Hualien and Taitung, the TTDARES has developed a system and related technology for eco-friendly pest control in organic orchards, and the results have been exceptional. On July 12, 2023 at the Binlang demonstration orchard of the TTDARES Banchiu Branch Station, the Eco-friendly Monkey Control Technology Seminar was held. The development and introduction of environmentally friendly technology and strategies for keeping monkey damage down was discussed, including improved monkey-protection nets and a monkey-protection net roller, and participants were allowed to try their hands at it. With emphasis on pest control that is safe for the environment, the TTDARES has developed all kinds of technology in the hope that more growers will join the ranks of organic, eco-friendly farming, in turn improving the overall agricultural environment.

Figure 1. TTDARES associate researcher Chen Yi-chun talks about eco-friendly monkey control technology in orchards.　Figure 2. Participants try their hands at using a TTDARES-developed monkey-protection net.

　　　　　

]]> 7912 2023-06-02 2023-05-30 13:59:07 The organic rice cultivation area in Guanshan has been dealing with an infestation of rice black bugs for over a year, causing losses of NT$20,000-80,000 per hectare each season. In response to the problems caused by the pest along with over-fertilization, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) has applied the organic remedy of natural enemies. On May 24, 2023, in rice fields behind the Zi-Yuan Rice Husking Factory in Guanshan, the TTDARES held the Organic Rice Black Bug Control and Fertilization Management Demonstration Event. Three seasons after these fields made the transition to organic, they were hit by a rice black bug infestation, leading to major losses for growers. But then the bug’s natural enemy came to the rescue! Through cooperation among the TTDARES, industry organizations, schools, and institutes of research, within a year, the bug’s natural enemies, the fungus Metarhizium robertsii and a species of Telenomus wasp, were found, and work was undertaken to make use of them as a secret weapon in combating the bugs, effectively ending the threat for now. Growers now only need to implement timely prevention, monitoring, and intervention measures based on integrated pest management principles to keep damage from the bugs within an acceptable range, making the foundation for sustainable rice crop management stronger. 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Organic Rice Black Bug Control and Fertilization Management Demonstration Event.　Assistant researcher Wang Zhi-wei talks about rice black bug control based on practices in an experimental field.　Associate researcher Zhang Ji-zhong discusses organic rice fertilization management techniques.　Growers observe the experimental field where rice black bug measures have been implemented.　An instructional card on techniques for controlling rice black bugs.

　　　　　

]]> 7920 2023-05-11 2023-09-06 17:11:40 After having been significantly pruned or having lost their leaves, many trees can be subject to sunscald when the sun is intense. In response, the TTDARES has combined a light calcium carbonate with white glue to create an inexpensive, safe, convenient mixture to protect trees from the sun, and discussed it in detail at the Fruit Tree Sunscald Prevention Technology Demonstration Event on May 11, 2023 in Taimali. The mixture consists of 8 kilograms of light calcium carbonate, 1-2 kilograms of white glue, and 20 liters of water, which is sprayed onto branches and trunks with a sandblasting gun powered by an air compressor or with a vehicle-mounted sprayer, effectively lowering the temperature experienced by the trees and thus preventing sunscald. At the end of the event, participants were given the opportunity to try out the technology themselves, and a lot of helpful discussion followed. Through the event, the TTDARES looked to educate growers on practical measures for sunscald prevention to ensure their trees will remain strong and healthy. 

Figure 1. TTDARES assistant researcher Chen Hsiao-chun discusses the main points on sunscald prevention and related procedure.　Figure 2. Participants watch and try their hands at the new technology.

　　　　　

]]> 7918 2023-05-10 2023-09-06 17:11:08 To meet industry needs, promote organic and eco-friendly farming, and advance the plan for organic farming development in Hualien and Taitung, the TTDARES held the Eco-friendly Longicorn Beetle Control Technology Seminar on the morning of May 10, 2023 at the Binlang orchard of the TTDARES Banchiu Branch Station. The event began with a description of the habits of white-spotted longicorn beetles and how they harm trees before discussing common control measures. One measure discussed was the use of a high-pressure air gun, including equipment needed, how to use it, and results from those who have used it. The organic orchard management research team demonstrated its use on navel orange trees and allowed participants to try it out. The equipment is easy to use and costs little but is highly effective and safe for the environment, so it is perfect for organic farming. If used on non-organic farms, it can allow growers to use fewer pesticides and thus reduce pollution to the environment, so it is a tool worth consideration by both conventional and organic growers.

Figure 1. TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song hosts the event　Figure 2. A member of the organic orchard management research team shows a participant how to use the air gun.

　　　　　

]]> 7915 2023-04-26 2023-06-09 09:55:31 In helping to promote the government’s policy of food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held a Food and Agriculture Education Class on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at Xianglan Elementary School in Taimali Township, attended by 15 teachers.
The class, about millet, was taught by Zhang Fang-kui, head of the TTDARES Upland Crops Lab and an assistant researcher there. He talked about the characteristics of millet, field management, and disease and pest control measures. In recent years, the school has used traditional crops to conduct food and agriculture education and held classes on hands-on millet cultivation. By participating in the TTDARES’ food and agriculture education project this year, the school looks to educate its teachers more thoroughly on millet. Attendees said they learned much from the class and affirmed that the material provided will help them in the development of their own classes.

Assistant researcher Zhang Fang-kui talks about growing millet.　Q&A time during the class.

　　　　　

]]> 7913 2023-04-12 2023-06-09 09:32:38 As part of the government’s policy on implementing food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Food and Agriculture Education Class for 23 students and teachers at Taitung County’s Fushan Elementary School on Tuesday, March 28, 2023.
Fushan Elementary is an international experimental school. The class was taught with the help of the school’s English teacher, teaching the students about insects in a fun way through a storybook so as to reduce their fears of insects. Liao Jia-zhu, one of the winners of the 3rd Top Hundred Young Farmers contest, spoke on disease and pest control for vegetables while incorporating English in talking about growing bok choy. Liao also showed the students how to make a simple, safe sunflower oil-based insect repellant, which keeps pests off bok choy as it is growing, letting students know that everyday items at home can be used to easily make organic pest-control materials. The class also taught the teachers at the school more about crops, which will help them further promote knowledge related to food and agriculture education.

The English teacher used a storybook to teach the students about insects.　The class incorporated material being taught at the school in English and Chinese.　Students making a sunflower oil-based insect repellant.　The teacher describing different kinds of insect pests.　

　　　　　

]]> 7914 2023-04-11 2023-06-09 09:55:15 In helping to promote the government’s policy of food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held a Food and Education Class on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at Jinping Elementary School in Haiduan Township, attended by 32 students and teachers.
The class, about millet, was taught by Jiang Xin-wu, a local elder and Bunun-language instructor. He talked about the millet offerings made in Bunun culture, teaching attendees about traditional seasonal offerings and having them participate in a millet-weeding ceremony. With the addition of related Bunun-language instruction, the class was both interesting and provided learners with much information on the Bunun millet culture. Teachers who attended said they thought the instruction and experience helped the students better understand the meaning of the offering and that, as the instruction was related to everyday life, it boosted their interest in learning.

The lecturer speaking to the kids.　A student pours an offering during the weeding ceremony.　

　　　　　

]]> 7910 2023-03-28 2023-04-12 15:28:47 As part of the government’s policy on implementing food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Food and Agriculture Education Class for 23 students and teachers at Taitung County’s Fushan Elementary School on Tuesday, March 28, 2023.Fushan Elementary is an international experimental school. The class was taught with the help of the school’s English teacher, teaching the students about insects in a fun way through a storybook so as to reduce their fears of insects. Liao Jia-zhu, one of the winners of the 3rd Top Hundred Young Farmers contest, spoke on disease and pest control for vegetables while incorporating English in talking about growing bok choy. Liao also showed the students how to make a simple, safe sunflower oil-based insect repellant, which keeps pests off bok choy as it is growing, letting students know that everyday items at home can be used to easily make organic pest-control materials. The class also taught the teachers at the school more about crops, which will help them further promote knowledge related to food and agriculture education.

The English teacher used a storybook to teach the students about insects.　The class incorporated material being taught at the school in English and Chinese.　Students making a sunflower oil-based insect repellant.　The teacher describing different kinds of insect pests.　

　　　　　

]]> 7911 2023-03-16 2023-04-12 15:45:35 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station(TTDARES) assisted in the off-site preservation of local millet lines, and conducted millet trait surveys and line selection. On March 15, 2023, the propagated 5 millet lines were returned to the tribe and the investigation results were shared. The Daromak tribe held a welcome ceremony for millets.In tribe, millet is a religious and cultural crop, and a sacred item for rituals. This time, assisting in the investigation of millet traits and line selection, and returning the selected seeds to the tribe, not only has cultural and educational significance for the Daromak tribe, but also injects new vitality into the cultural protection and agricultural development of the indigenous people in Taiwan. In this event, TTDARES not only handed over the seeds of 5 selected millet lines to the leader, but also shared the survey results of the traits of these millets, so that the clan members could understand how precious and rich their cultural resources are. We look forward to more opportunities for millet conservation and promotion in various tribes in the future, and hope that the promotion of this event will also bring more attention and support to the cultural preservation and agricultural development of the tribe. 

Lu Po-Song, deputy director of TTDARES, handed over the selected millet seeds to the tribe leader.　The Daromak tribe held a welcome ceremony to welcome millet seeds.　Assistant researcher Chang Fang-Kuei introduced the characteristics of local millet lines.　

　　　　　

]]> 7905 2023-01-16 2023-01-13 08:39:59 To exhibit Taitung’s wealth of Indigenous culture and R&D achievements in agriculture, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Conference on Adding Value Through Innovation to Special Indigenous Crops and Annual Experimental Research Achievements on January 7, 2023, at the TTDARES regional education center. 200 agricultural agency representatives and growers attended. In addition to presenting major research achievements, the exchanges that took place also inspired new ideas on direction for future research. Also, by looking at development needs for Indigenous people and the local industry, the event sought to boost overall agricultural development in Taitung. TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen stated that Indigenous people account for about one-third of the population in Taitung County, and along with its uncommon climate and geography, Taitung has been able to develop a unique agricultural industry, especially with the increasing effort put towards maintaining and promoting traditional Indigenous wisdom and culture in recent years. Based on their knowledge of agricultural methodology, those at the TTDARES are working on Indigenous crop-based projects, integrating Indigenous agricultural know-how in the aspects of the primary, secondary, and tertiary industries. In light of this, the event focused on related problems to come up with solutions.

Figure 1. TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Conference on Adding Value Through Innovation to Special Indigenous Crops and Annual Experimental Research Achievements.　Figure 2. Posters exhibiting R&D achievements in agriculture, including Indigenous crops, in Taitung.　Figure 3. Qiu Gui-chen of the Yisimahasan Farm shares about the seed conservation, propagation, and use of traditional Indigenous crops.　Figure 4. Wen Yuan-tian, general manager at Bulaku (a fruit and vegetable production cooperative), talks about his experiences in Indigenous communities.　

Figure 5. Jinfeng Township Mayor Puljaljuyan discusses “six-sector industrialization” (an integration of primary, secondary, and tertiary industries) in Jinfeng.　Figure 6. National Chiayi University professor Xue Ling shares experiences on providing industry-oriented guidance in Indigenous areas.　Figure 7. An attendee speaks at the event.　　　

]]> 7904 2023-01-06 2023-01-06 09:05:25 To promote Taitung’s winged bean industry and satisfy the multiple requirements of the consumer market, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan named a new winged bean variety ‘Taitung No. 2 – Chun-Fong’ and held a press conference on December 21, 2022. The new variety has a consistent pod size, the pod being tender, jade green, without spots, of a desirable shape, and fresh and crispy when eaten. Moreover, the new variety is characteristic of a short pod length that is favorable for rapid cooking for small families or office workers. Winged bean ‘Taitung No. 2 – Chun-Fong’ can be grown in both spring and autumn and yield about 15 and 13 tons/ha, respectively, which is a 61% higher yield than ‘Taitung No.1’. Overall, it is believed that the new variety will help drive both the winged bean industry and the indigenous vegetable industry of Taitung.

　　　　　

]]> 7908 2023-01-04 2023-04-07 09:08:10 Atemoyas are a special crop in Taitung, and in order to promote a system of healthy management for them, the TTDARES held the 2023 Outstanding Atemoya Orchard Contest in January. After a fierce competition in which orchards and the fruit they produce were evaluated, Ye Xin-yan was named the winner; Song He-mu and Lin Pei-ying won second place; and third place went to Zhong Chang-long, Zhang Sheng-yao, and Zheng Cheng-you. Four other growers were given merit prizes. Each winner demonstrated proper management of their orchards, provided detailed records of their growing process, and showed that they incorporate non-chemical agents. Such ecofriendly management is part of the reason their chemical residue levels met established standards, ensuring quality and peace of mind for consumers.

Figure 1. Judging panel.　Figure 2. All the winners.　

　　　　　

]]> 7902 2022-10-20 2022-10-18 11:26:24 To train farmers and boost agricultural production in Indigenous communities, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the 2022 Reinvigorating Indigenous Village Spirit Class in Haiduan Township’s Indigenous community of Jiana on October 7.
The class focused on propagation techniques for special Indigenous crops, the production of incense cones made from these crops, and the Teacher Chang Consultation Service. The TTDARES stated that there is a huge variety of special Indigenous crops, and with the introduction of modern germplasm preservation techniques, we will be better able to ensure the transmission of these crops to future generations. In addition, with instruction on their diverse applications, the crops are getting a value boost. The class helps with both the transmission of Indigenous community farming knowledge and ensuring the preservation of the crops.

TTDARES researcher Su Bing-duo initiates the class with a speech.　TTDARES associate researcher Xue Ming-tong discusses sexual propagation technique for special Indigenous crops.　TTDARES assistant researcher Chen Jing-wen discusses asexual propagation technique for special Indigenous crops.　TTDARES associate technician Lin Zhen-ru demonstrates how to make incense cones with material from special Indigenous crops.　

]]> 7903 2022-09-12 2022-10-18 11:26:40 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Farmers’ Academy Novice Class on Organic Farming from September 12 to October 7. Participants, who came from all over Taiwan, said they learned a lot and are highly confident in their futures as organic growers. The class included instruction and information on the organic cultivation of various crops, field management concepts, an introduction to organic farming laws, farmland planning, marketing, the organic certification process, loans, and farmer insurance policy. In addition, there were hands-on lessons on farm equipment maintenance and usage and the processing of products, allowing the students to put into practice what they had learned in the classroom. For the practical training, students visited organic farms in groups and took part in the entire farming process, beginning with soil preparation and continuing to sowing, caring for seedlings, planting seedlings in fields, weeding, disease/pest management, pruning, pollination, flower thinning, harvesting, packaging, and processing. Through this hands-on approach, they accumulated practical knowledge and skills. The TTDARES looks forward to the students accelerating their development as growers from the foundation they obtained in class. In the future, if they have any problems, the TTDARES and stations in other regions will be happy to provide help.

A lecturer shows students how to mix organic disease/pest prevention material.　A student roasts pigeon peas, a basic processing step. 　A lecturer discusses the structure and maintenance of a farming tool.　Students learn an eco-friendly way to deal with white-spotted longicorn beetles.　

During the practical training, a student works with seedlings.　A student prepares soil with a cultivator.　Students plant baby corn seedlings in a field.　A student clears weeds with a grass cutter.　　

Students learn to thin Loquat flowers.　Students make boxes for tea bags.　Students share about what they have learned from the practical training during a forum.　TTDARES Deputy Director Lu presents a certificate to a student who completed the class.　　

]]> 7907 2022-08-17 2023-04-06 15:07:56 To promote organic and ecofriendly farming in line with the Organic Farming Development Plan in the Hualien-Taitung Region, the TTDARES held the Lecture on Multi-Application Techniques for Organic Fruit (which was the final event in the Organic Orchard Management Techniques Series) on the morning of August 17, 2022, at the Binlang Orchard of the Banchiu Branch Station. In-depth yet easily understood talks were given on sixth-sector industrialization management techniques for organic orchards and on a diversity of applications for organic fruit. Then, analyses were given on the performances of growers who received guidance in integrating the primary and secondary industries while expanding into the tertiary industry by incorporating agrotourism and food/agriculture education into their operations. Complete explanations on concepts and methods of related organic orchard management were given. Through the lecture, the TTDARES looked to share thorough explanations on related concepts and techniques with growers to substantially increase their capacity in the organic fruit industry. It is our hope that everyone will work together in making a new look for the organic fruit industry.

Figure 1. TTDARES associate researcher Chen Yi-jun discusses the many applications of organic fruit.　Figure 2. Growers asked questions and engaged in exchange during the event.

　　　　　

]]> 7901 2022-08-05 2022-08-05 09:23:56 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held a training course for new farm laborers from July 26 to 28, 2020. The lectures were given by TTDARES researchers from various fields to teach trainees basic farming knowledge and skills so that they may be better able to support agricultural activity and improve on the problem of a lack of hired farm workers.
The TTDARES stated that in order to address the lack of hired farm workers in Taitung, the Taimali Skilled Farm Laborer Task Force was established in August 2017 to provide farmers with needed help. However, as there is still a shortage, more such laborers are needed. The course included instruction on cultivation, management, fertilization, disease/pest control, and machinery use/maintenance for sugar apples, roselles, grains, and pitaya (dragon fruit). There was also a series of hands-on exercises to ensure trainees had indeed learned and would be able to properly undertake their work. The event is sure to allow the laborers to be more effective, bringing new life to the field and remedying the problem of a lack of laborers.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen gives a talk at the beginning of the course.　A lecturer providing instruction.　A trainee practices operating a piece of machinery.　　　

]]> 7900 2022-07-29 2022-07-26 09:26:08 On July 13 and 14, and again on July 27 and 28, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan and the Changbin Farmers’ Association jointly initiated the 2022 Agricultural Integration Consulting System Program in holding the 2022 Green Elderly Care Event: Succulent Potting Beginner and Advanced Workshops at the Changbin Farmers’ Association Green Elderly Care Station and the Zhenbing Activity Center. The workshops are focused on teaching attendees the basics of how to plant and care for succulents, and they will serve as a reference for Green Elderly Care Events in the future.
The workshops not only allow attendees to enjoy the fun of planting but also to make novel, heartwarming memories. The TTDARES hopes the attendees obtain joy through the experience and interaction with the plants, boosting their mental and physical health. It is yet another of the many values of agriculture.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen speaks at the opening.　Seniors use their senses of sight, hearing, smell, and touch while potting their succulents.　The workshop allowed attendees to experience the fun and relaxation of potting plants.　Group photo of attendees and their potted plants.　　

]]> 7899 2022-06-22 2022-06-15 15:54:07 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the 2022 Evaluation and Conference on Rice Blast in New Rice Varieties on May 27, 2022, in the Guanshan township. It was hosted by Deputy Director Lu Po-song, and researchers studying rice blast and breading from each research institutes/research and extension stations of the Council of Agriculture were invited. This annual event looks at what are differences of the rice blast resistance among each variety or line,to figure out directions of breeding research.This year, the resistance of blast and planthoppers of 216 rice varieties (including commercial cultirars) was evaluated. Researchers carefully observed how each variety in the rice blast nursery reacted, and evaluated the disease and pests resistance of each variety, providing important reference data for selective breeding programs.

Deputy Director Lu Po-song (middle) and researchers at the event.

]]> 7898 2022-06-08 2022-06-07 17:06:14 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the 2022 Reinvigorating Indigenous Village Spirit Class on May 30, 2022 at the activity center in Taoyuan Village in Yanping Township. The class focused on the Indigenous meal boxes developed by several Indigenous communities. Through hands-on experience, attendees learned many uses for crops grown mainly in Indigenous villages and related processing techniques. Associate Professor Zou Hui-fen from National Taitung Junior College shared about the meal boxes developed in the Indigenous villages of Taoyuan and Wuling in Yanping, Dongxing Village in Beinan, and the community of Dianguang in Guanshan, and also provided suggestions for improvement. In the end, the attendees were able to take home samples of their newly developed creations. By exchanging ideas and brainstorming as a group, they became more imaginative and better skilled, allowing them to come up with even more dishes with a local flavor that are both healthy and delicious.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen opens the class with a speech and welcomes attendees.　Associate Professor Zou Hui-fen shares about Indigenous meal boxes.　Abuhan Meal Box Business name: The Legend of Eden Phone: 0919872962　Wild Veggie Meal Box Business name: Dream Come True Phone: 0970445311

Dawana Meal Box Business name: Dawana Phone: 0921271883　Business name: Paiwan-Bunun Crossover Kitchen Phone: 0912700110　Sa’icelen Meal Box Business name: Taitung Baoma Phone: 0958600673

]]> 7897 2022-04-22 2022-04-18 16:15:07 To enhance growers’ postharvest handling skills for djulis, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Djulis Postharvest Handling Demonstration Event on March 24, 2022, in Daren Township. TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song stated that djulis is an important grain crop in Taitung mainly grown in Taitung City and the townships of Taimali, Jinfeng, Dawu, and Daren. The grain is highly adaptive, which means it has few environmental demands and is most frequently grown via eco-friendly and organic methods. Growers are already very familiar with cultivation and production, but postharvest processing must be conducted properly to ensure good quality. At the event, speakers talked about how to determine the optimal time to harvest and then how to process the djulis. Also, a demonstration on the use of a thresher was given. Attendees enthusiastically participated, gave numerous suggestions, exchanged ideas, and learned together to gain a clearer understanding of djulis postharvest processing.

TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song welcomes attendees and describes the purpose of the event.　Assistant researcher Huang Zi-yun talks about how to determine the optimal time to harvest djulis.　Associate researcher Huang Zheng-long demonstrates the use of a thresher for djulis.　Attendees enthusiastically participated and exchanged ideas.

]]> 7896 2022-04-01 2022-03-24 11:48:07 Jiuqu, which includes microorganisms, is use to make traditional Indigenous glutinous rice wine. To pass down and record this aspect of the Indigenous dietary culture, the TTDARES invited Chief Zhang Wan-sheng from the Amis community of Kaadaadaan in Guanshan and executive secretary Pan Bao-ying from the community’s development association to give a hands-on class on the making and use of jiuqu. Kaadaadaan is located on the western slopes of the Coastal Mountain Range. The elders there stew ten types of herbage, including Limnophila rugosa, Abrus precatorius, and Blumea balsamifera, roll the mixture with rice flour into balls, and then sprinkle on jiuqu made the previous year to produce more jiuqu. (There is uncertainty about the original source of the jiuqu.) When jiuqu is added to cooked glutinous rice that has cooled, it ferments into a dish called sweet fermented rice and glutinous rice wine, which are consumed on such major occasions as religious ceremonies, harvest festivals, and the completion of a new home. The instructors explained how to identify and use plants traditionally used in the community, gave demonstrations on the making of jiuqu and sweet fermented rice, and allowed attendees to try their hands at it. Also, with a blend of modern processing techniques and traditional wisdom, food safety concepts were promoted, helping the community integrate more into the modern lifestyle. During the class, staff from the TTDARES became better acquainted with the Kaadaadaan community’s traditional culture. They plan to do a survey of basic information on agriculture in the community and help record and pass down agricultural knowledge and the dietary culture by training community residents to preserve their precious yet continually declining culture. In this way, the community’s industry will gain in value and grow sustainably.

Figure 1. Kaadaadaan Chief Zhang Wan-sheng and community development association executive secretary Pan Bao-ying demonstrate how jiuqu is made.　Figure 2. TTDARES staff members take turns pounding rice with a pestle to make rice flour.　Figure 3. TTDARES staff making sweet fermented rice with jiuqu—it’s always tastier when you do it yourself!

]]> 7893 2022-01-13 2022-01-06 15:47:11 Sugar apples and atemoyas are important crops in Taitung, so in order to promote healthy crop management and production in which growers produce safe, high-quality fruit, the TTDARES held the 2021 Outstanding Sugar Apple and Atemoya Orchard Contest in December 2021. 59 growers joined, and after the two phases of fruit quality evaluation and orchard evaluation, the winner of the sugar apple event was Ye Xin-yan, and the winner of the atemoya event was Lin Pei-ying. Through this annual contest, the TTDARES sees that growers’ management concepts have continually progressed over the years: Not only are their fields clean and orderly, but their trees are robust, healthy, and managed with methods that are ecofriendly and thus ensure consumers’ health. As a result, the fruit quality is excellent and meets food safety standards, which means consumers may enjoy it worry-free.

Judges evaluating fruit samples.　Group photo of the judges.　Group photo of the winners.

]]> 7892 2021-11-30 2021-11-25 15:50:18 To help Farmers’ Academy students gain a better understanding of medicinal herb cultivation techniques and industrial management, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Farmers’ Academy Novice Class on Medicinal Herb Cultivation and Usage from November 17 to 19 at the TTDARES. It included visits to industry sites and hands-on practice to boost participants’ awareness of overall industry development. Besides providing practical means to confirm knowledge acquired in the classroom, participants also learned what is required to develop the industry further, giving them a strong foundation for their futures in agriculture. All of them said the class was highly informative and stimulated creativity. Through interaction with lecturers and each other, participants were able to expand their networks and share resources, which will be of significant help in their future endeavors. They were told that if they have any technical-related problems, they may ask the TTDARES for assistance or its Department of Agricultural Extension to refer them to someone who can help, as researchers at the TTDARES are happy to help. They were also welcomed to return anytime to share about their experiences and wished all the best on their paths forward in medicinal herb cultivation.

A participant speaks with a lecturer about the traits of medicinal herbs.　A participant practices operating a small cultivator.　Dr. Lee Shing-ginn discusses the cultivation of snake jasmine and post-harvest processing.　　　　

Participants making Chinese toon sauce.　Participants making mosquito repellants and lotion from mugwort and indigenous cinnamon.　

]]> 7891 2021-10-22 2021-10-21 09:14:49 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture held the 2021 Agroecosystem Long-term Ecology Research Conference online on October 7, hosted by TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen. Lin Yu-pin, associate dean of the College of Bioresources and Agriculture at National Taiwan University, and Lin Chau-chin, chair of the Society of Subtropical Ecology, respectively gave presentations entitled “Establishing Ecological and Agricultural Management Modes Based on Locality and Landscape Sizes” and “New Tasks and Challenges in Long-term Agricultural Ecology Research.” Representatives from the district agricultural research and extension stations in Taoyuan, Miaoli, Tainan, Hualien, and Taitung gave presentations on the monitored results from conventional and organic citrus orchards and rice fields in the aspects of insects, soil, and yield. The conference was aimed at sharing results of long-term research on agroecosystem ecology and providing those interested in engaging in such research with reference material, in turn helping to find direction for this field of study. This will provide an important scientific basis for agricultural operations and management and establish modes for agricultural and ecological management.

TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the 2021 Agroecosystem Long-term Ecology Research Conference online.　Lin Hsueh-shih, director general of the Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute (a co-organizer of the conference), gives a speech.　Lin Yu-pin, associate dean of the College of Bioresources and Agriculture at National Taiwan University, gives a presentation entitled “Establishing Ecological and Agricultural Management Modes Based on Locality and Landscape Sizes.”　　　　

Lin Chau-chin, chair of the Society of Subtropical Ecology, gives a presentation entitled “New Tasks and Challenges in Long-term Agricultural Ecology Research.”　Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute researcher Chen Qi-ling gives a presentation entitled “Preliminary Results on Program for Station Expansion of Agroecosystem Long-term Ecology Monitoring.”　

]]> 7890 2021-06-23 2021-06-18 11:14:24 After six years of work on breeding new varieties of Dendrobium nobile by the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, three such varieties (Taitung wedding, Taitung quartz pink, and Taitung positive passion) were registered with the Royal Horticulture Society on January 4, 2020. The three are yellow-flowered hybrids whose plump flowers bloom readily even in warm environments while maintaining their leaves, which makes them great for commercial mass production. They are grown at low altitudes (below 50 meters) in greenhouses or net houses. Since they do not need to be kept cool, their carbon footprint, an aspect the international community is highly concerned with, is much smaller and production costs are lower.

Taitung wedding has multiple stems, producing three annually. The eye-catching flowers are large, bright in color with strong contrast, and grow as tall as 30 centimeters. Taitung quartz pink changes in color: the blooms first appear as light yellow before gradually becoming pink, a relatively rare phenomenon on the commercial market. Taitung positive passion has deep yellow, mid-sized blooms whose petal edges are embellished with a red-purple, and it readily blooms in warm temperatures. Dendrobium nobile is a crucial element in driving Taitung’s competitiveness in the industry. In recent years, major flower companies from the US and Europe have actively sought out new varieties in Taiwan, so breeding good new strains has become important in boosting competitiveness. The three varieties introduced here will be promoted through means of paid transfers or variety rights permission, accelerating the diversification of usage and contributing to a strong foundation for Taiwan’s Dendrobium nobile industry.

 

Fig. 1. Dendrobium nobile Taitung wedding.　Fig. 2. Dendrobium nobile Taitung quartz pink.　Fig. 3. The blooms of Taitung quartz pink (second from left) possess the unique feature of turning pink over time.　　　　

Fig. 4. Dendrobium nobile Taitung positive passion.　Fig. 5. Taitung positive passion is a beautiful yellow flower with multiple stems.　Fig. 6. The TTDARES has bred several varieties of red and yellow Dendrobium nobile and looks forward to working with those in the flower sector to promote the thriving development of the Dendrobium nobile industry.

]]> 7888 2021-06-09 2021-06-01 17:29:20 To help participants gain an overall understanding of the horticulture industry and basic cultivation knowledge, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its Farmers’ Academy—Introductory Horticulture Class from May 12 to 14. Through a diverse array of useful courses each year, participants may obtain new agriculture-related knowledge and gain an understanding of the industry in Taiwan to make their futures as farmers smoother. Management of horticulture crops requires a relatively refined, intensive effort. Through the classes, participants obtained foundational knowledge that will be helpful in their work and boost their competitiveness.

 

Director Chen Hsin-yen gives a speech to the class.　Group photo of participants.

]]> 7889 2021-06-09 2021-06-01 17:30:57 The Farmers’ Academy—Introductory Horticulture Class, held by the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, came to an end on May 14 (the third day of the class). The class allowed agriculture-industry novices to gain foundational knowledge of the horticulture industry and learn how to make use of a diversity of channels to obtain related information to ensure they will have smooth futures as farmers. Those who wish to gain more in-depth knowledge may search for related courses on the Farmers’ Academy website (https://academy.coa.gov.tw/). The TTDARES encourages all who wish to learn to do so together so that they may help each other along the way.

 

A tour of an orchard and instruction on cultivation management.　Director Chen Hsin-yen presents a certificate of course completion to a participant.　　　　　　

Participants expressed their thoughts during a forum.　A lecturer talks about greenhouses and related equipment.　　　　　　　

]]> 7887 2021-05-03 2021-04-30 14:24:14 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) and the Eastern Taiwan Joint Services Center (ETJSC), both subsidiaries of the Executive Yuan, jointly held the Daylily Taitung No. 7 Cultivation Management and Water-saving Irrigation Techniques Demonstration Event on April 28 at the Tianshan Farm of grower Zhang Jia-chang in Zhiben in order to promote both daylilies (a crop particular to the region) and tourism. Daylily Taitung No. 7 is a flatland variety that was first bred in 2012 by the TTDARES, known for its orange-yellow petals and lightly colored anthers. Moreover, they do not need to be treated with sulfite (a common practice) to be dried out and made ready for consumption. Furthermore, their beauty in the fields has turned them into a major tourist attraction. The fields at the Tianshan Farm, Taitung’s latest daylily secret spot, bloom magnificently each year in May and June, which is a perfect prelude to the bloom season in the mountains of Taimali in July, August, and September, extending the overall season during which people may view the flowers. So come and see them, take pictures, check in on social media, and enjoy some tasty daylily delicacies!

 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　ETJSC Executive Director Hong Zong-kai promotes daylily field tourism and food made with daylilies.　Associate researcher Xue Ming-tong discusses Daylily Taitung No. 7 cultivation management and general water-saving irrigation techniques for vegetables.　　　　　

Farmer Zhang Jia-chang shares his experiences with growing Daylily Taitung No. 7.　Attendees listening and sharing at the farm.　Attendees were able to try out some food made with Daylily Taitung No. 7.　　　　　　

]]> 7886 2021-04-30 2021-04-28 09:06:52 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan concluded its three-day Farmer’s Academy—Introduction to Agriculture Course on April 16. The course focused on agronomic crops and included an introduction to the industry, farming theory and knowledge, practical techniques, and an introduction to related information channels. By gaining a basic understanding of the industry, participants now have a good foundation for their futures as farmers and will be a new force in the industry. They were further encouraged to register for the novice and advanced Farmer’s Academy courses to learn more and thus become even better farmers.

 

Tour of a grain field.　TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song presents a certificate of course completion to a participant.　　　

Participants enthusiastically expressed their thoughts and asked questions during the forum.　Group photo of all who completed the training.　

]]> 7885 2021-04-01 2021-03-29 09:37:00 To boost farmers’ processing skills of djulis, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Djulis Postharvest Processing Technique Demonstration Event on March 17, 2021, in Jinfeng Township. TTDARES Deputy Director Lu Po-song stated that djulis is an important grain crop in Taitung. In recent years, agriculture agencies have implemented programs and measures to guide the development of the djulis industry, such as establishing the Taiwan Good Agriculture Practice (TGAP) for djulis, and basic-level production is gradually developing and stabilizing. However, postharvest processing and raw-material management still need improvement to ensure high-quality end products. As a result, the TTDARES held this event to boost the standards of the djulis industry in Taiwan. The event included information on djulis cultivation, determining the proper time for harvesting, and postharvest processing techniques. A demonstration of a threshing machine was given as well. Attendees provided a lot of positive feedback.

 

Deputy Director Lu Po-song welcomes attendees and discusses the objective and purpose of the event.　Assistant researcher Huang Zi-yun describes how to determine when djulis should be harvested.　　　

Associate researcher Huang Zheng-long demonstrates the use of a djulis threshing machine.　Attendees provided a lot of feedback.　

]]> 7884 2020-12-08 2020-12-04 11:19:09 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Circular Agriculture Rice Straw Recycling Demonstration Event on November 30, 2020, at the Guanshan Rice School, hosted by TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen. Farmers were able to listen to instruction and see demonstrations on the use of rice straw decomposers and solid/liquid waste-produced biogas and the recycling of rice straw. The government is strongly promoting circular agriculture, and if rice growers use rice straw decomposers and solid/liquid waste-produced biogas, or if they reuse rice straw in weed management, they will be able to reduce their dependence on chemical fertilizers and herbicides, thus achieving another step in eco-friendly farming.

 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Demonstration of a rice straw bundler at work.　Demonstration of a rice straw mat weaving machine.　

Event lecture hall.

]]> 7883 2020-11-04 2020-10-28 09:28:56 In promoting circular agriculture, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan presented related accomplishments at the “Circular Agriculture Rice Straw Recycling Accomplishment Presentation” (part of the island-wide Circular Agricultural Accomplishment Tour) in the TTDARES regional education center on October 23, 2020. The event was hosted by TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu. Presented for reference by farmers were three major accomplishments: the mechanized use of rice husk biochar, the use of rice straw decomposer and solid/liquid waste-produced biogas for rice cultivation, and techniques for recycling rice straw. Circular agriculture is being strongly promoted by the government. If farmers use techniques discussed at the event in their rice fields as a means of managing weeds and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and herbicides, they will be involved in not only promoting circular agriculture but also helping the environment.

 

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosts the Circular Agriculture Rice Straw Recycling Accomplishment Presentation.　Associate researcher Huang Jeng-Lung talks about using machinery to collect rice straw and how to recycle it.　Discussion during the event.

]]> 7882 2020-10-19 2020-10-16 08:11:06 In an effort to provide guidance to those growing vegetables to be used in school lunches so as to ensure students’ health, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its Lecture on Safe Agrochemical Use on Small-leaf Vegetables Commonly Used in School Lunches on October 8 at the Chenggong Farmers’ Association. Hosted by TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu, the event was attended by 35 people from the office of Legislator Liu Chao-hao, the Agriculture and Food Agency’s Eastern Regional Office, the Taitung County Government, the Chenggong Farmers’ Association, and Chenggong Agricultural and Production Marketing Team. It focused on techniques and safe agrochemical use for disease/pest control on small-leaf vegetables as well as the control of specific crop pests. Those present lauded the event as highly informative and beneficial.

 

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosts the Lecture on Safe Agrochemical Use on Small-leaf Vegetables Commonly Used in School Lunches.　Cai Shu-ren, a department chief at the TTDARES, speaks on measures to control specific crop pests.　Attendees learned much about keeping vegetables safe.

]]> 7881 2020-10-16 2020-10-16 08:10:45 The winners of the 2020 Taiwan Rice Competition, a contest for the top rice-growers throughout Taiwan, were announced on September 29. First and second place in the organic rice division went respectively to Guan Sheng-lin and Zeng Peng-zhang of Chishang.|The competition is a major event held annually by the Council of Agriculture. This year’s event was divided into two divisions: Good Rice of Taiwan and Organic Rice. Only the top growers in each town/township who had their crops’ agrochemical residue and variety purity inspected and approved were eligible. This year, entries came from 759 growers from 55 towns/townships.The competition was judged in two rounds. The first included assessments of appearance, quality specifications, and protein content. Only the top ten scorers in each of the two divisions advanced to the second round of judging. Guan Sheng-lin, Zeng Peng-zhang, and Liu Dong-liang of Chishang made it to the second round in the organic division. Professor Chen Zong-li of National Chung Hsing University, Deputy Director Luo Zheng-zong of the Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station, Deputy Director Hong Mei-zhu of the Taichung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station, section head Su Mei-ying of the China Grain Products Research & Development Institute, a head chef from a restaurant, and a professional gastronome made up the judging panel, who evaluated the appearance of each contestant’s husked rice along with its cooked taste, texture, and smell. This year, Guan Sheng-lin and Zeng Peng-zhang of Chishang were named the respective first- and second-place winners in the organic division!Taitung’s environment is blessed wonderfully by nature. In addition, the climate and soil of the Eastern Rift Valley and the clean, cool water of local streams are the keys to producing high-quality rice. The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) has worked hard toward promoting the growth of high-quality rice by frequently holding a diversity of classes in collaboration with local town/township administration offices, farmers’ associations, and production and marketing teams to provide growers with choices in rice varieties, improve cultivation techniques, enhance organic and eco-friendly farming, and share the latest information on disease/pest management. Local growers have also been diligently learning and implementing these new techniques and methods in their fields. The TTDARES believes strongly in sharing knowledge gained through learning and experience and working with growers to jointly ensure a bright future for Taitung’s rice industry.

 

Guan Sheng-lin’s wife represents him in accepting the 1st-place award for organic rice at the Taiwan Rice Competition.　Zeng Peng-zhang is presented with the 2nd-place award for organic rice at the Taiwan Rice Competition.　

 

]]> 7879 2020-07-03 2020-07-01 16:08:57 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan has long been involved in boosting Taitung’s indigenous people’s special crop industry, working to increase the number of varieties of these crops and develop a diversity of uses. As a result, the TTDARES held a meeting for the naming of a new variety of gac on June 23 at the main TTDARES office in downtown Taitung City. After a review of related documents and an on-site evaluation, the committee unanimously decided on the name “Gac Taitung No. 1,” making it the first native gac variety to be named in Taiwan. The variety ripens in summer after only 59 days, which is up to two-thirds less time than required by other Southeast Asian varieties. In addition, each hectare of these orchards produces up to 43.8 metric tons of fruit, nearly double the figure of other strains commonly grown. This significant boost to yield per hectare will greatly lower the costs of canopies and other such materials related to gac cultivation while increasing efficiency for such tasks as pollination and protective bagging.

 

The TTDARES evaluation committee unanimously decided on the name of the new gac variety on June 23.　Evaluation committee members assess samples of Gac Taitung No. 1 on site.　TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-Yen introduces the many uses of gac.

Gac Taitung No. 1 has a regular shape and a bright orange-red color.

]]> 7880 2020-07-02 2020-07-01 16:17:46 In promoting eco-friendly farming, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan has built an ecology protection network, part of which included the Homeland Green Network Eco-friendly Rice Farming Demonstration Event on June 20 in the fields of rice grower Xiao Ren-yi in Chishang Township. The event, hosted by TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen, introduced methods of eco-friendly rice fertilization and pest/disease management. The TTDARES provides guidance to growers in a number of aspects for eco-friendly rice farming, helping them overcome problems they may encounter. In this way, the TTDARES and growers are working together to create a green network aimed at protecting the local ecology, in turn working toward the vision of a new, environmentally conscious agriculture industry.

 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Homeland Green Network Eco-friendly Rice Farming Demonstration Event.　Assistant researcher Lin Jun-qi details eco-friendly pest/disease prevention, government policy on reducing the use of agrochemicals, and measures on fall armyworm prevention.　Growers at the event.

]]> 7878 2020-03-23 2020-03-18 15:41:13 To help farmers handle the problems associated with the sloped edges of terraced fields and give a new look to the landscape of farming villages, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held an event called “Creating a New Look for Terraced Rice Fields” on March 11, 2020, at the Changguang Industrial Road Demonstration Area in Changbin Township. Those who attended included representatives from private and public organizations as well as farmers for a total of about 70 in all. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that terraced rice fields are a feature of Taitung, especially those that lie between Changbin’s majestic Mt. Jingang and the vast Pacific, a place no tourist would want to miss. However, these beautiful fields among the natural scenery are hard work for the farmers who manage them, dealing with weeds on the sloped edges of the fields being especially difficult. At the event, the TTDARES introduced a management technique of growing trailing lantana as a groundcover along the slopes to not only make weed management much easier but also beautify the fields, giving their slopes the look of purple cascades. The new technique and event are part of the effort at maintaining a healthy, green ecology by reducing dependence on herbicides while decreasing the amount of time growers need to spend cutting weeds with brush cutters. And the resulting beauty is sure to have a good effect on local tourism.

 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Assistant researcher Liao Jingying talks about using trailing lantana as a groundcover for terraced rice field slopes.　Growers look at a trailing lantana plant.

Lin Xin-fu, a local rice farmer, shares about his experiences using trailing lantana as a groundcover on his slopes.　Attendees observe trailing lantana in use as a groundcover on the slopes of terraced rice fields.

The use of trailing lantana as a groundcover on the slopes helps control weed growth while giving the area a new look.

　　
 

]]> 7876 2020-03-11 2020-03-10 10:23:31 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan stated that there were 30 instances of fall armyworm invasions over a total of 10.85 hectares of farmland in Taitung in 2019, the crops damaged in each case being corn. We are currently in stage two of emergency prevention. Farmers who notice their crops being attacked by fall armyworms are to report to the Taitung County Agriculture Department so as to receive the necessary preventative agrochemicals. Fall armyworm pheromone-trap surveillance data shows the greatest numbers of adult male fall armyworms have been caught in Chenggong and Luye. Thus, the TTDARES would like to remind growers to be diligent in monitoring their fields during the early whorl stage (about two weeks) of their corn, as preventative measures early on can effectively control the development of the pests, raising the chances of a good corn harvest.

 

Numerous adult male fall armyworms have been trapped with pheromone traps.　Large holes and excessive droppings on early whorl-stage corn leaves indicate the presence of fall armyworms.

]]> 7877 2020-03-11 2020-03-10 10:35:28 To make weeding and fertilizing easier while effectively lowering production costs for rice growers with the aim of promoting organic and eco-friendly cultivation methods, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its Detachable Rice Paddy Weeder-Fertilizer Demonstration Event on the morning of February 25, 2020, at a field behind the Ziyuan Rice Factory in Guanshan. Over 130 people, including growers, VIPs, and government officials, came to the event. The growers participated enthusiastically and expressed affirmation for the convenience and practicality of the machinery developed by the TTDARES. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the government is strongly advocating organic and eco-friendly farming and has thus launched a number of incentives for growers to change their methods, which means this is a good time for them to invest in organic farming. Ziyuan Rice Factory is a praiseworthy example for initiating organic rice farming on 120 hectares of land this year. Experience shows that since organic rice farming does not allow for the use of herbicides, weeding takes a great deal of work. Thus, the focus of the event was to demonstrate the use of TTDARES-developed machinery that can be attached to a farming vehicle, greatly boosting weeding and fertilizing efficiency.

 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Detachable Rice Paddy Weeder-Fertilizer Demonstration Event　Associate researcher Zhang Ji-zhong talks about eco-friendly fertilizing.　Assistant researcher Liao Jing-ying discusses key principles of organic rice field cultivation.

Associate researcher Huang Zheng-long introduces the detachable rice paddy weeder-fertilizer.　Attendees observe how the machinery in action.

]]> 7875 2020-01-22 2020-01-22 08:39:51 To highlight the features of the local agricultural industry and present related research achievements, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Indigenous-town Eco-friendly Farming and Annual Experimental Research Achievements Conference on January 17 at the TTDARES regional education center. A total of 156 farmers and personnel from government agencies related to the agricultural sector attended the informative event. In addition to talks given by experts and agricultural-related government personnel, major research achievements were presented. The objective of the event was to inspire ideas for research and innovation through exchanges among people of various sectors as well as to boost local agricultural industry development based on existing needs.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the event was focused on eco-friendly farming in indigenous towns with presentations revolving around three core areas of TTDARES work: special indigenous crops, early ripening, and organic LOHAS living. Council of Agriculture Deputy Minister Chen Junne-jih gave a speech in which he encouraged TTDARES staff, stating that Taitung is an important region for indigenous crops and organic farming. He affirmed the research achievements made and technology promotion conducted by the TTDARES, reminding farmers that the TTDARES is always happy to help with any questions they may have.

In addition to sharing about the research achievements, Director Chen stated that an aim of this event of exchange among people of various sectors will inspire innovative thought and momentum for greater research so as to allow the TTDARES to continue integrating local features. This will help make the local agriculture industry one of high added value while protecting the local ecology, strengthening the foundation of Taitung’s agricultural industry.

 

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Indigenous-town Eco-friendly Farming and Annual Experimental Research Achievements Conference.　Council of Agriculture Deputy Minister Chen Junne-jih offers words of encouragement to TTDARES staff.　Research achievement exhibits related to indigenous-town eco-friendly farming.

Dr. Yan Xin-fu of the National Museum of Natural Science talks about research on vegetables grown by the Amis tribe in Taitung.　Dr. Zhang You-ming of the A-Zhaowu Natural Farming Fair shares on the promotion of and research on organic and eco-friendly rice cultivation.　Chen Chang-cen, head of the Eastern Branch of the Agriculture and Food Agency, talks about an incentive program for growing certain crops.

Participants at the event.　　
 

]]> 7874 2019-12-03 2019-12-03 11:15:46 The Taimali Township 40th Sugar Apple Production and Marketing Team performed exceptionally for the 2019 National Top Ten Outstanding Agricultural Production and Marketing Teams evaluation. The team, which received high affirmation by the judges and an award of honor, mainly consists of young farmers who have been producing safe, high-quality sugar apples through innovative management methods and compliance with all agricultural-related government policies. The Council of Agriculture held the recognition event on November 27 with Minister Chen Chi-chung as the host. President Tsai Ing-wen presented the awards, offered congratulations to the winners, and encouraged the Taimali team to continue working hard toward establishing a new era for Taiwan’s agricultural industry.
Team leader Zheng Hong-ji and his team went to Taipei to accept the award and share in the glory together. Their experience is sure to encourage other teams in Taitung to help each other boost Taiwan’s competitiveness to thrive on the international market.

 

Council of Agriculture minister Chen Chi-chung and President Tsai Ing-wen congratulate the Taimali Township 40th Sugar Apple Production and Marketing Team with a horizontal inscribed board.　The Taimali Team and their advisors.　President Tsai Ing-wen visits the Taimali Team’s exhibition booth.
 

]]> 7873 2019-10-30 2019-10-30 10:20:21 In promoting the use of herbs and their development in the agritourism industry in Taitung, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the third session of its Herb Industry Innovation and Added-value Lectures on October 23, 2019, at the TTDARES regional education center. The 62 people who came to the event included those in the local hot springs, hotel, and B&B industries. TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu stated that growing herbs in kitchen gardens (whether in backyards or on balconies) is very common in the West and Japan; whenever fresh herbs are needed for tea or food, they are simply picked right at home. Such practice is being widely promoted. The alluring scents and composition of herbs make them perfect for being made into essential oils that soothe the body, mind, and spirit. In recent years, Taiwanese people have started focusing more on healthy living, hence the popularization of concepts pertaining to natural ingredients, health, and healthy living, which in turn has given rise to the cultivation of herbs, the production of essential oils, and R&D on related products. These products, which can be used for food, beverages, handmade decorations, beauty care, and aromatherapy, offer enhanced vitality, health, and diversity in their lives.

 

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu welcomes participants and introduces the purpose of the event.　Dr. Li Chun-lian talks about essential oils and their uses.　Yang Su-xing, a supervisor at the Taitung County Farmers’ Association, leads a DIY activity on making essential oils.

Chen Ren-ding, chair of the Olive Leaf Cooperative Farm, shares about experiences on managing herbs.　Participants at the event.

]]> 7872 2019-10-14 2019-10-14 08:46:44 Health crop development has been viewed with increasing importance in recent years, and the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan has invested great effort and achieved outstanding results in the R&D of such functional crops as gac, djulis, and roselles in the areas of processing and added value since 2016.
Medical and Pharmaceutical Industry Technology and Development Center (PITDC) general manager Liu Te-ren and Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) deputy-director general Tsay Jyh-rong visited the TTDARES on October 4, 2019. With Tsay as a witness, Liu (representing the PITDC) and TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen signed the agreement.
The two agencies will work together in sharing information, talent, and capabilities, linking their cultivation and processing technologies so as to push the potential for highly valuable development in Taiwan’s health crops and promote the industrialization of their R&D achievements.

Group photo with the signed cooperation agreement.　Researchers from PITDC and TARI visit a flat-leaved vanilla greenhouse at the TTDARES.　

Researchers from PITDC and TARI visit a gac field at the TTDARES.　Researchers from PITDC and TARI visit the health crop fields at the TTDARES.　

]]> 7871 2019-10-03 2019-10-02 10:31:23 Upon recommendation by the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES), the Taimali Township 40th Sugar Apple Production and Marketing Team competed and succeeded in being named one of the 2019 National Top Ten Outstanding Agricultural Production and Marketing Teams through its excellent performance. Most members of the team are young farmers, and being team-oriented, they operate and manage their tasks well. All of them insist upon safe, healthy, and eco-friendly production, working hard in the areas of organic and eco-friendly farming. They have actively held to government policy regarding the production and marketing CV system: over 60% of the members have received production and marketing CV certification based on their adherence to policies set by the Council of Agriculture (COA) regarding safe and reduced agrochemical use, and all of the members passed the COA’s agrochemical residue self-inspection standards. The team is thus a great example for other agricultural production and marketing teams to follow.

Group photo of the winners with Legislator Liu Zhao-hao, TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen, and TTDARES employees.　The production and marketing team’s exemplary operations and management have allowed it to produce high-quality sugar apples and atemoyas.

]]> 7870 2019-07-23 2019-07-23 08:49:12 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Demonstration on Use of a Rice Straw Decomposer on July 17 at a rice field in Guanshan. Hosted by TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen, the event demonstrated to growers how to use an organic rice straw decomposer. Such method of dealing with post-harvest rice straw not only prevents air pollution that results from the traditional method of burning but also boosts the organic qualities and nutrient content of the soil, which means less fertilization is required the next season. As a result, farming costs will be lowered and the environment will be better.

TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Demonstration on Use of a Rice Straw Decomposer.　Assistant researcher Liao Jingying discusses rice-field weed management techniques.　

A number of growers attended the event.　A comparison of areas where the rice straw decomposer was used (right) and was not used (left). The straw on the right has decomposed well and has already become the same color as the soil, whereas the straw on the left has not decomposed well.

]]> 7869 2019-07-01 2019-07-01 13:43:54 To provide farmers with the latest information on natural disaster prevention techniques and prepare for disease and pest control during the post-plum rains season, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Annona Tree Natural Disaster Prevention Measures and Safe Use of Agrochemicals Forum on June 27 at the Donghe Farmers’ Association. The event was hosted by TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen. Zeng Jun-jie, head of the NTTU Disaster Prevention and Technology Information Center, talked about the climate of the Donghe region and reminded farmers of the importance of preparing for natural disasters. After that, TTDARES assistant researcher Lin Yan-yu discussed disaster prevention and restoration measures for Annona trees based on an Annona-specific cultivation calendar designed by the TTDARES. Then, assistant researcher Wang Zhi-wei spoke on the causes of disease and pest problems, preventative measures, and the herbicide nonanoic acid. Director Chen stated that the objective of the forum was to give farmers a lot of information on weather, preventative measures, and the safe use of agrochemicals. In addition, he called on farmers to carry out proper self-management in these endeavors so as to sustain the stable development of Taitung’s Annona industry.

 

TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Annona Tree Natural Disaster Prevention Measures and Safe Use of Agrochemicals Forum.　Zeng Jun-jie, head of the NTTU Disaster Prevention and Technology Information Center, talks about the special traits of Donghe’s climate.　TTDARES assistant researcher Lin Yan-yu discusses natural disaster prevention measures for Annona trees.

TTDARES assistant researcher Lin Zhi-wei shares on the safe use of agrochemicals on Annona trees and introduces the herbicide nonanoic acid.　A number of farmers came to the event.

]]> 7868 2019-06-06 2019-06-06 14:59:28 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Farmers’ Academy—Advanced Class on Outstanding Annona Cultivation Management, which came to a smooth end on May 31. Class content for the 29 trainees was highly practical in helping them sharpen their Annona cultivation skills. The classes were held at the Banchiu Branch Station, and the director there, Lu Bo-song, taught the classes. Trainees worked in discussion groups so they could brainstorm together and engage in teamwork. Also, fieldwork allowed them to gain an understanding of important know-how, boosting their professional capacity. TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the objective of the class was to allow trainees to learn specifically about growing Annona, offering help in a much-needed aspect, which in turn will benefit the development of Taitung’s Annona industry. He also told trainees that if they have any problems in the future, the TTDARES is more than happy to provide assistance.

A certificate of completion is received by a representative of all the trainees.　Learning grafting hands-on.　Trainees listening to a report in groups.

]]> 7867 2019-04-24 2019-04-19 14:07:05 The Taitung Agricultural Product Value-added Trial Production Center (TAPVATPC) is located conveniently on the TTDARES grounds in downtown Taitung. It is a processing site established based on GHP standards that provides farmers with four low-risk raw-material processing methods (drying, grinding, rolling, and roasting) for the trial processing of agricultural product samples. With consultation services and guidance offered during the process, farmers may first assess their products, costs, and machinery needs before deciding whether to become completely involved in the secondary processing industry. It will also help to establish proper food hygiene practices and promote processing knowledge. After carrying out processing at the TAPVATPC, if farmers still need help with package design, mass production, or introducing their products into stores, they may find a complete range of related services at the Agricultural Product Processing Integration Service Center of the Agricultural Technology Research Institute. The TTDARES and National Taitung University are partners in this endeavor, so after product samples in the early stage of processing have been made at the TAPVATPC, they may be brought to the university’s Pilot Food Product Biotechnology Plant to carry out mass-production trials.

Opening ceremony for the Taitung Agricultural Product Value-added Trial Production Center (TAPVATPC).　Map of the TAPVATPC.　Production demonstration and tasting of puffed grains at the TAPVATPC.

Demonstration and explanation of grain rolling at the TAPVATPC.　TAPVATPC drying room.　Products processed at the TAPVATPC.

]]> 7866 2019-04-01 2019-04-01 13:51:57 So as to boost the industry of indigenous people’s special crops in Taitung, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held a naming review meeting for a new variety of djulis on March 22, 2018. After both textual and on-site reviews, the review committee members were unanimous in naming it djulis Taitung No. 1, making it the first djulis variety in Taiwan. It has red panicle (the major market trend) and ripens 13 days earlier than the current commercial varieties, which is an improvement in the aspect of harvesting. The variety has high harvest index and high fertilizer-use efficiency, which makes it suitable to be grown as a cash crop. It is also high in such nutritional elements as protein, betalains, and micronutrients, making it a stable ingredient for the production of health foods and a positive influence on the development of the special grain industry.

Djulis Taitung No. 1 can be harvested 13 days earlier than control variety.　Djulis Taitung No. 1 has red panicle, which are the major market trend.　Review committee members inspect djulis Taitung No. 1 in a field.　

Djulis Taitung No. 1 was named by unanimous decision by all the members on the review committee on March 22.　

 

]]> 7865 2019-02-22 2019-02-22 14:04:20 To recognize the contributions to various experimental research projects and other tasks made by farmers and Farmers’ Association employees in 2018, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held an award ceremony and Lunar New Year celebration on Wednesday, February 13. Director Wang Zhi-hui of the Taitung Soil and Water Conservation Bureau, Director Guo Rui-lang of the Agriculture and Food Agency’s Taitung Branch Office, Director Xiao Jian-xing of the Taitung Tea Research and Extension Station, Director Xu Rui-gui of the Taitung County Department of Agriculture, Director Li Jun-de of the Taitung County Farmers’ Association, Director Zhang Hao-jie of the Luye Farmers’ Association, and Director Liu Wu-long of the Donghe Farmers’ Association came to congratulate the recipients. TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen thanked all of the farmers’ associations and farmers who were given awards for their generous support to the many projects and tasks undertaken by the TTDARES, as their help made many and substantial accomplishments possible. He then encouraged his colleagues to continue working hard this year so as to provide farmers with the best information and service. Lin Hui-jing received a horizontal plaque as one of the recipients of the 31st Top Ten Outstanding Farmers Awards. Other growers and Farmers’ Association staff who received awards were Guo Ming-zhe, Wang Li-wen, Huang Han, Lin Zhi-zhong, Wu Dong-long, Yi Chuan-qi, Liu Jin-lian, Chen Shi-lin, and Su Wen-nan. Recipients working in the area of promotion were Zeng Hui-zhu, Hu Yu-hua, and Gao Jin-qin. Director Chen expressed gratitude for all of the agricultural improvements made and the effort put in by everyone, stating that he hopes they will continue to help the TTDARES with agricultural research and promotion in working together to make the Taitung agriculture industry even better.

 

Director Chen and TTDARES management staff wish all present a happy new year.　Group photo of all the award recipients.　

Director Chen presents Lin Hui-jing with a horizontal plaque as one of the recipients of the 31st Top Ten Outstanding Farmers Awards.

]]> 7864 2019-01-24 2019-01-24 10:10:21 To increase the amount of organic and eco-friendly farming, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Organic and Eco-friendly Farming and Satoyama Initiative Promotional Lecture on January 16 at the Changbin Township Farmers’ Association Sales Expansion Center. Hosted by TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen, Satoyama Initiative concepts were discussed along with such topics as fertilization management, smart fertilization, and eco-friendly rice management techniques. The TTDARES plans to become heavily involved in related technique development research in the areas of plant variety, cultivation, pest/disease control, and soil fertilization so as to continue furthering Taitung’s orientation toward organic and eco-friendly farming and to make Taitung into a Satoyama region in which people and nature coexist harmoniously.

 

TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Organic and Eco-friendly Farming and Satoyama Initiative Promotional Lecture.　Assistant researcher Liao Jing-ying talks about eco-friendly rice management techniques.　Farmers at the lecture.

]]> 7863 2019-01-16 2019-01-15 16:38:56 So as to promote the development of the indigenous people’s crops industry, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, held a release conference for the new winged bean variety, Taitung No. 1 Qingcui, at the Council of Agriculture on December 14, 2018. At the event, the unique form and wonderful taste of this bean with “wings” grown by indigenous people were introduced. The new variety is verdant green, has a tender pod, and produces high yields. After it is cooked, it has a beautiful color and is crispy. The production period of the new variety is also longer than that of the local variety: the former can be grown in spring and fall, while the latter can only be grown in fall. In addition, the new variety is much more robust and resistant to pests and disease, making it an organic, eco-friendly crop worthy of government promotion. If growers manage these crops well, the beans they produce are sure to be high in value.

The Taitung No. 1 Qingcui winged bean passed review to receive its name on May 2, 2018.　Taitung No. 1 Qingcui produces tender, high-quality pods in spring.　Taitung No. 1 Qingcui is verdant green and has a tender pod that is both beautiful and crispy.

]]> 7861 2018-11-08 2018-11-08 08:44:16 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its 90-year Legacy and Innovative, Sustainable Farming Open House and 90th Anniversary Celebration on October 26 – 27. Former TTDARES Directors Zhang Xue-kun, Huang Wu-lin, Zhang Rui-gong, Huang De-chang, and Lin Xue-shi as well as nearly 1,000 others attended the event. The event theme of legacy and innovation was an important implication for the TTDARES to continue to serve the local industry, push innovation, and boost the competitiveness of the local farming industry.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that this year’s open house and anniversary celebration coincide with the publication of its latest TTDARES Achievement Records. He thanked the former directors for coming to share about their experiences, which was very helpful for those of the current generation. With the outstanding leadership of the former directors and the hard work of employees at the TTDARES, many and great things have been achieved over the past 90 years. An exhibition entitled Looking Back on History and Legacy was set up in the first-floor meeting room of the TTDARES regional education center, allowing viewers to take a trip back in time and both see and affirm all that the TTDARES has done for Taitung over the years.

Legacy, Innovation, and Sustainability: Former TTDARES Directors and Their Experience.　Release of the TTDARES Achievement Records.　Former Directors and Other Attendees Viewing the Photo Exhibition.

Group Photo of Former Directors and Current TTDARES Staff.　TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen Thanking All in Attendance.　　　

]]> 7862 2018-11-08 2018-11-08 09:16:51 In celebration of the 90th year since the establishment of the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan as well as to exhibit the achievements made by TTDARES directors over the years, the 90-year Legacy and Innovative, Sustainable Farming Open House and 90th Anniversary Celebration were held on October 26 – 27 (Friday – Saturday).

Former TTDARES directors attended the events to share their experiences, and there were also a photo exhibition and the release of the latest TTDARES Achievement Records, allowing attendees to become better acquainted with the TTDARES. On the second day, there was an exhibition of achievements (including farming technology and new plant variety development) related to three core concepts the TTDARES has been working on: special indigenous crops, early ripening, and organic LOHAS living. DIY activities, great food, and discounted agricultural products were available at the event. All who came had a fun and educational time. (See attachment for more details.)　

Principal Zheng Han-wen talks about traditional Bunun farming modes and techniques. 　　　

]]> 7860 2018-11-06 2018-11-06 14:52:59 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) has in recent years been working hard on promoting the development of eco-friendly and organic farming. So as to further develop sustainable special industries and promote the value of a multiethnic farming culture, a lecture for the Indigenous Farming Culture series was held on the morning of October 8, 2018, during which was introduced traditional farming modes and techniques of the Bunun tribe and their use of mountain land and relatively small patches of land around villages in times past. Bunun tribe members are very conscious of environmental conservation work, such as forest and water source protection, and their traditional farming mode is by no means at odds with the environment. After the vegetation on a certain piece of land is burnt away, the ashes not only return to the soil they came from, they also become part of a natural cycle that keeps away disease and pests. Then, with the unique tribal methods of crop rotation and polyculture, a botanical community of diversity and mutualism is generated, making for a naturally rich agricultural environment. The lecture called on people to consider how to maintain and continue passing on these traditional techniques and cultural knowledge that are gradually being lost, which will help people learn to love the forest and maintain an attitude of respect and protection for the environment.

Principal Zheng Han-wen talks about traditional Bunun farming modes and techniques. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the opening of the lecture.　　　

]]> 7859 2018-10-08 2018-10-03 09:31:50 The results for the 2018 Taiwan Rice Competition were announced on September 26. Two of the champions and one third-place winner are from Taitung, making Taitung the biggest winner of all the regions that participated. In the “Good Rice of Taiwan” division, Zhuang Xinyuan from Guanshan won first place and Zhang Zhuangjian from Chishang won third place. In the “Organic Rice of Taiwan” division, first place was awarded to Zeng Pengzhang of Chishang.

The Taiwan Rice Competition is the biggest rice contest in Taiwan. This year, 824 farmers submitted their rice for the first round, but only 20 qualified for the second round. The competition was fierce for the mere six awards to be given, but Taitung won three of them, serving as a strong affirmation of the hard work toward improving technique by Taitung’s farmers.

Taitung County is blessed with a great environment, climate, and soil that are quite suitable for the cultivation of rice. Moreover, local farmers are so enthusiastic about learning new concepts and techniques that the courses in agronomic practices held by the TTDARES are frequently unable to meet local demand. From what they have learned, farmer are carrying out a variety of practices on cultivation and disease/pest control, visiting each other’s farms and learning from each other. The TTDARES will continue working hard alongside farmers to promote the quality of Taitung rice and boost the local rice industry.

Farmers from Taitung won two first places and one third place at the 2018 Taiwan Rice Competition.　Zeng Pengzhang of Chishang won first place in the “Organic Rice of Taiwan” division.

Zhuang Xinyuan of Guanshan won first place in the “Good Rice of Taiwan” division.　Zhang Zhuangjian of Chishang won third place in the “Good Rice of Taiwan” division.　

]]> 7858 2018-09-26 2018-09-25 09:23:17 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Natural Disaster Prevention and Relief for Rice and Agrochemical Usage Reduction Technique Lecture on the morning of September 21 at the Chishang Farmers’ Association. TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosted the event, which drew 152 local farmers.

Climate change is causing extreme weather to become more and more common. In addition to the risk of natural disasters harming their crops, farmers are also challenged by disease and pest management, which must comply with the food safety demands of consumers. The TTDARES believes an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of treatment, and it has studied all types of problems that may occur while rice is growing so as to come up with measures for natural disaster prevention and relief. Moreover, the TTDARES offers healthy management suggestions regarding environmental conditions that are apt to lead to diseases and pests for each stage of crop development, providing precise management methods so as to reduce loss when disaster strikes and to allow stable production. Moreover, the TTDARES continues to promote safety and high quality in the agriculture industry, encouraging growers to work together to create a great environment for rice production.

 

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosts the Natural Disaster Prevention and Relief for Rice and Agrochemical Usage Reduction Technique Lecture.　Assistant researcher Lin Jun-qi speaks on disease and pest management for rice as well as techniques for reduction of agrochemical usage while growers listen attentively.　Assistant researcher Liao Jing-ying discusses natural disaster prevention and relief measures for rice.

]]> 7857 2018-09-11 2018-09-11 09:24:21 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Safe Pesticide Use on Sugar Apples and Smart Fertilization Lecture on August 29 and September 5 at the Jianhe Sugar Apple Collection Center and the Taitung Farmers’ Association Promotion Department in an effort to provide guidance to farmers in the Taitung City and Beinan areas regarding the production of safe, high-quality sugar apples and atemoyas. The event was hosted by TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu, and 100 growers attended. Topics discussed were sugar apple cultivation management techniques, smart fertilization, the use of biofertilizers, and pest/disease prevention techniques. Attendees were also given a chart compiled by the TTDARES on pest/disease prevention. Growers were reminded to use proper management techniques for safe pesticide use so that all may work together toward making the entire industry one of safe production. Attendees were also reminded to pay close attention to fruit sets to prevent trees from becoming overloaded, overheated, or too cold, which could cause fruit to fall and thus decrease yield. After attending the session, growers will be better able to maintain the fruit’s high quality and reputation.

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosts the Taitung region Safe Pesticide Use on Sugar Apples and Smart Fertilization Lecture.　Growers in attendance enthusiastically listened to talks on sugar apple cultivation management.　　

]]> 7856 2018-08-20 2018-08-15 10:06:26 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Safe Pesticide Use on Sugar Apples and Smart Fertilization Lecture on August 9 at the Donghe Farmers’ Association in an effort to provide guidance regarding the production of safe, high-quality atemoyas to farmers whose crops are to be exported. The event was hosted by TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu, and about 95 growers attended. Topics discussed were smart fertilization, the use of biofertilizers, and pest/disease prevention techniques. Attendees were also given a chart compiled by the TTDARES on pest/disease prevention. Growers were reminded to use proper management techniques for safe pesticide use so that all may work together toward making the entire industry one of safe production. Growers were also reminded to pay close attention to fruit sets to prevent trees from becoming overloaded, overheated, or too cold, which could cause fruit to fall and thus decrease yield. Finally, they were told not to harvest atemoyas too early so as to maintain the fruit’s high quality and reputation.

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosts the Taitung region Safe Pesticide Use on Sugar Apples and Smart Fertilization Lecture.　Assistant researcher Huang Wen-yi speaks on smart fertilization and the use of microbial fertilizers.

]]> 7855 2018-08-02 2018-08-02 14:19:20 So as to bring cohesion to concepts held by elementary and middle-school teachers on promoting food and farming education and to establish a common vision on this subject, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan began holding the Food and Farming Educational Consensus Camp and Lecture Series on August 1, 2018. Sessions are slated to take place at Dawang Elementary School in Taimali (8/1, 9/4, and 10/16), Luye Junior High School (9/12 and 10/3), and Zhongxiao Elementary School in Chenggong (9/19 and 9/26).

The TTDARES stated that government authorities in the agriculture sector are helping teachers establish concepts on food and farming education as well as vision for instruction in these areas. This is expected to help teachers plan and carry out related lessons in the future. At the first session (held at Dawang Elementary School in Taimali on August 1), attendees expressed that the knowledge and skills they obtained during the camp will help be helpful in their daily lives and will be integrated into their future lesson plans so as to cultivate in children a concern for the local land and to pass on the local farming and dietary culture. The main goal of the camp is to solidly root food and farming education into local schools.

Attendees learning about agriculture.　Attendees getting some hands-on experience.　Attendees interacting and having discussion with camp trainers.　

]]> 7854 2018-05-30 2018-05-30 11:12:21 So as to promote development for Taitung’s indigenous farmer vegetable industry, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held a review and naming conference for a new winged bean variety at the TTDARES grounds on May 2. After a review of related documents and the bean itself by council members, they decided unanimously to name it “winged bean Taitung no.1.” The new variety has a consistent pod size, the pod being tender, jade green, without spots, of a desirable shape, and fresh and crispy when eaten. It can be grown in both spring and autumn. Each hectare of land can annually produce about 11.5 tons, which is a 44% higher yield than other varieties. This will be helpful in driving both the winged bean industry and the indigenous farmer vegetable industry.

 

Winged bean Taitung no. 1 was given its name after a unanimous decision by council members on May 2.　A council member inspects winged bean Taitung no. 1 growing in the field.

Winged bean Taitung no. 1 has a pod that is tender, jade green, without spots, of a desirable shape, and fresh and crispy when eaten.　Winged bean Taitung no. 1 grown in spring yields high-quality, tender pods.

]]> 7853 2018-05-11 2018-05-10 13:44:05 So as to boost the efficiency of the 6th National Agricultural Congress that is to take place in September, the Council of Agriculture (COA) has arranged for regional meetings to be held in 18 cities/counties around Taiwan. The second such meeting was held in Taitung, hosted by Chen Hsin-yen, director of the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES). COA planning department director Tsai Sheng-fu, Soil and Water Conservation Bureau (Taitung branch) director Wang Chih-hui, Agriculture and Food Agency section chief Cheng Yong-ching, Taitung Animal Propagation Station director Hsu Chin-bin, and Taitung Tea Research and Extension Station director Wu Hsing-shun were present. Those from related agencies and businesses were also invited. During the meeting, attendees readily offered their opinions, pointing out the difficulties faced by the agriculture industry in Taitung and offering suggestions. The meeting was webcast live on the COA website, and online viewers were able to make proposals or offer their support for proposals made by others. Proposals that receive support from at least 2,000 people within the 30 days following the meeting will be further discussed during the National Agricultural Congress in September. The agriculture industry is currently faced with a number of challenges, so by means of participation from all who are interested, the COA hopes to make Taiwan’s agriculture industry one of quality, happiness, safety, and sustainability while possessing the competitive edge that comes from foresight.

TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　People from various organizations in Taitung attended the event.

A local agriculture industry worker shares his ideas.　A senior official speaks about a certain issue.

]]> 7852 2018-04-23 2018-04-23 13:38:51 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the 2018 Lohas Herb Festival at the TTDARES Fengli Experimental Grounds on the morning of Saturday, April 21. The event consisted of a number of activities, including the exhibition and sale of herbal essence oils and products produced by young farmers, a demonstration on how to cultivate 32 different types of herbs, a beautiful field of blooming garden cosmos, a DIY activity on making health-promoting and massage essence oils, a DIY activity on aromatic plant use and the making of herbal essence spray-ons, explanations on the cultivation of herbs in fields, and gifts of potted herbs. Nearly 1,000 people attended the event. Under the direction of a lecturer, attendees fully enjoyed making ball massage essence oils and herbal essence spray-ons. Afterwards, some people went to look at and purchase herbal essence oils and products on exhibition made by young farmers. Others preferred to enjoy and take pictures of themselves in the captivating colors of the garden cosmos flower field, documenting the heart-touching time they had that day with their cameras. Still others listened to explanations given by TTDARES researchers on the cultivation of herbs in fields, allowing them to further understand the skills and applications for such cultivation. The air permeated with the delightful fragrance of herbs, the event ended, and all who attended said it was very worthwhile and a great way to relax and spend the morning.

 

Attendees checking in.　TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-Yen hosts the opening.   Attendees making ball massage essence oils.  
　


Attendees making herbal essence spray-ons.    32 herbs being grown at the TTDARES in Fengli.　Garden cosmos in full bloom at the TTDARES in Fengli.

　

 

 

]]> 7851 2018-04-18 2018-04-18 11:42:57 In an effort to promote the use of herbs in the tourism and leisure industries, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan will hold the 2018 Lohas Herb Festival at the TTDARES Fengli Experimental Grounds on Saturday, April 21 beginning at 8:00 a.m. The event will consist of the following: the exhibition and sale of herbal essence oils and products produced by young farmers, a demonstration on how to cultivate 32 different types of herbs, a beautiful field of blooming garden cosmos, and the delightful fragrance of herbs that will ease your nerves from the everyday pressures of life. You and your family won’t want to miss out on all this! For more information, please visit the TTDARES website.

The Fengli Experimental Grounds are located at: No. 21, Lane 427, Chengdu South Road, Taitung City (near the 166.6 km point on Highway 11). All who are interested may come. We look forward to seeing you on April 21!

]]> 7850 2018-03-15 2018-03-15 09:41:48 In an effort to promote the healthy management of sugar apple orchards and improve general fruit production methodology, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the Outstanding Sugar Apple Orchard Demonstration Event at the Donghe orchard of Chen Jilong on March 14, 2018. A large number of growers attended the event. TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu stated that an outstanding orchard is not only defined by excellent-quality fruit but also a healthy, safe production process that is eco-friendly. The aspects of tree management, smart fertilization, safe use of agrochemicals, and environmental protection must meet the sustainable development target of satisfying the needs of consumers, growers, and the environment. At this event, winners of the 2017 Outstanding Sugar Apple Orchard Contest shared about the management of their orchards with the objective of propelling and improving sugar apple production technique and healthy orchard management concepts.

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosts the Outstanding Sugar Apple Orchard Demonstration Event held on March 14, 2018.　Growers attending the event look at sugar apple trees on site.　

]]> 7849 2017-12-08 2017-12-08 09:16:12 So as to increase the amount of organic and eco-friendly farming in Taitung, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Organic and Eco-Friendly Farming Promotional Lecture at the Kanding Community Activity Center in Haiduan Township on December 6 with TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen as host. The production of organic liquid fertilizer, smart fertilization techniques, and organic disease/pest control were discussed at the event. Moreover, the TTDARES announced that it provides free analysis of soil, plants, and irrigation water as well as free disease and pest diagnosis, aiding farmers in overcoming the potential challenges they may encounter while implementing organic and eco-friendly cultivation techniques. The aim of such services is to increase growers’ willingness to adopt these techniques, which will in turn make Taitung an even more eco-friendly place for farming and agritourism.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Organic and Eco-Friendly Farming Promotional Lecture.　Assistant researcher Lin discusses organic disease and pest control methods.　A grower at the event asks a question regarding the process of organic and eco-friendly farming.

]]> 7848 2017-11-29 2017-11-29 11:45:07 The award presentation ceremony for the 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Agricultural Production and Marketing Teams took place on November 21 at the Council of Agriculture (COA). It was hosted by COA head Lin Tsung-hsien, and Premier Lai Ching-te and representatives from related government agencies were also present at the lively event. The Zhengxing team (from Jinfeng Township), which has been under the guidance of the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES), was led to Taipei to receive the award by the team’s leader, Wu Chao-zong, and secretary, Ba Zhong-yi. The team won the award because of its outstanding management and operational system, total compliance with related government policy, application for QR code traceability, and promotion of the TAP system, all of which have allowed it to produce safe, healthy products. This is quite a contribution to agricultural industry development in Taitung and is looked at as a model to follow for other growers and production/marketing teams. With such achievements, the team deserves well to stand out among the tough competition from all around Taiwan and be named one of the 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Agricultural Production and Marketing Teams.

The Zhengxing Sugar Apple Production and Marketing Team receives a plaque of congratulations from Premier Lai Ching-te and COA head Lin Tsung-hsien.　Group photo of the Zhengxing Sugar Apple Production and Marketing Team, Deputy Director Zhuang Lao-da (fifth from left) of the Agriculture and Food Agency, and workers from the TTDARES, the Taitung County Government, and the Taimali Farmers’ Association.

]]> 7847 2017-10-30 2017-10-30 16:52:42 Evaluations for the 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Agricultural Production and Marketing Teams began on October 5, and the scores were recently released. The teams nominated by the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) performed exceptionally well, and the team from Zhengxing Village, Jinfeng Township won a place in the top ten.

The Zhengxing Village team has boosted the quality of its fruit. Those on the team jointly manage and market their fruit while actively complying with related government policies, following safe agrochemical use standards, and applying smart fertilization techniques. They have devoted themselves to establishing a traceability system via the use of QR codes, working hard toward establishing a healthy, safe environment for agricultural production.

The Zhengxing Village team has always enthusiastically participated in the trainings, demonstration events, and research projects held by the TTDARES, and they often share their successful marketing experiences with teams from other regions. It is no small feat to be named one of the National Top Ten Outstanding Agricultural Production and Marketing Teams, and we at the TTDARES are just as excited as the recipients!

Group photo with TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen (center) and Zhengxing Village team leader Wu Chao-zong (second from right).　The Zhengxing Village team has an effective machinery management and maintenance system.

]]> 7810 2017-09-12 2017-09-12 10:03:20 So as to assist growers in gaining an understanding of the latest sugar apple cultivation techniques, disaster-prevention measures, and information on agrochemical use to prevent pests and diseases, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Sugar Apple Tree Disaster Prevention Measures and Safe Use of Agrochemicals Forum on September 7 at the Sunny Country of Formosa Resort of the Taimali Farmer’s Association. About 80 growers attended the forum in which agrochemical regulations were spoken about by representatives from the Taitung County Government. Furthermore, representatives from the Agriculture and Food Agency talked about sugar apple income insurance and offered guidance on traceability and subsidy measures. Growers were given direction on disaster, pest, and disease prevention techniques so as to reduce losses caused by typhoons, boost growers’ capacity for self-management, and further the competitiveness of their products.

TTDARES Director Chen hosts the Sugar Apple Tree Disaster Prevention Measures and Safe Use of Agrochemicals Forum in Taimali.　Attendees paying close attention to the speaker and literature on sugar apple disaster, pest, and disease prevention measures.

]]> 7783 2017-08-23 2017-08-23 08:48:34 In an effort to promote food and agriculture education, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held a Food and Agriculture Education Workshop for in-service teachers from schools of all levels in Taitung County, providing lessons on farming techniques while advocating dietary concepts with the goal of establishing food and agriculture education concepts and consensus at schools.

The orientation of the workshop was multi-faceted. Professors were invited to serve as lecturers alongside TTDARES workers. Lecture topics included “How to Promote Food and Agriculture Education at School—Food and Agriculture Education at School for Daily Life,” “Food and Agriculture Education from the Aspect of the Individual’s Dietary Carbon Footprint,” and “Food and Agriculture Education from the Aspects of Place of Production and the Dining Table.” In the lectures, speakers shared about basic knowledge and real-life experiences so as to help in-service teachers understand proper food and agriculture education principles as well as related instructional vision. With the use of materials found in daily life, the lectures entitled “Promotion of the ‘Four Labels and QR Code’ to Ensure School Meal Quality” and “Production of Compost” allowed participants to learn how to recognize product-quality labels and make fertilizer from fallen leaves, equipping them with a better understanding of agriculture-related knowledge and farming techniques. The TTDARES looks forward to participants sharing what they learned with their students, helping students learn new farming and dietary concepts to gain an understanding of the relationships between the land, environment, and food. In this way, students will learn to respect their food and be grateful to the land.

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen hosts the opening of the event.　Assistant professor Chen shares about daily food and agriculture education in a lecture entitled “How to Promote Food and Agriculture Education at School.”　Assistant professor Zou shares about real-life experiences related to food and agriculture education.

]]> 7752 2017-07-14 2017-07-14 08:53:23 The Council of Agriculture’s “Improving Seasonal Agricultural Labor Shortage Plan 2.0” is an effort to recruit young people to the agricultural industry so as to remedy the problem of seasonal labor shortages. Those who passed a required physical fitness test were admitted to an agricultural techniques training course at the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) on July 10. They learned about pruning, cutting, placing fruit coverings, flower/fruit thinning, applying fertilizer, and harvesting. After a written test and a field test, 20 of the participants will be selected to be sent to farms that need assistance in August by the dispatching and coordinating Farmer’s Associations (the Taimali and Taitung Farmer’s Associations, respectively).

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosted the opening. Technical specialist Huang Shu-hui from the Council of Agriculture Human Resources Development Office, Director Li Jun-de of the Taitung County Farmer’s Association, Director-General Zhuang Qing-hui of the Taimali Farmer’s Association, and Secretary Li Chuan-sheng of the Taitung Farmer’s Association were present to offer guidance. Huang and Chen congratulated the participants for making it to the second stage of selection and encouraged them to stay serious and diligent in their training. Attendees from the local Farmer’s Associations stated that the participants would be needed in the future to improve the state of seasonal agricultural labor supply.

Moreover, Director-General Huang Li-zhen of the Nanzhou Farmer’s Association (in Pingtung) and growers from Kaohsiung were invited to share their experiences. The TTDARES looks forward to these new recruits becoming highly proficient in their work, boosting Taitung’s agricultural competitiveness.

Group photo.　Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the opening.　Director-General Zhuang from the Taimali Farmer’s Association offers encouragement to participants.

Director-General Huang from the Nanzhou Farmer’s Association speaks with the participants.

]]> 7734 2017-06-26 2017-06-26 09:43:04 In an effort to promote organic and eco-friendly farming, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Organic and Eco-Friendly Farming Promotional Lecture on June 22 at the Taitung Farmers’ Association. Hosted by TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen, topics spoken on at the event included the making of organic liquid fertilizer, smart fertilization, and organic disease/pest control techniques. Also mentioned was the fact that the TTDARES provides free soil, plant, and irrigation water analysis as well as disease/pest diagnosis. In this way, growers who wish to go organic know they have the support they will need when faced with the potential challenges of organic and eco-friendly farming, in turn increasing their willingness to go organic and use eco-friendly techniques. Such efforts will help make Taitung an even more eco-friendly region in the aspects of both agriculture and tourism.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosted the event.　Assistant researcher Lin talked about organic disease/prevention techniques.　Those present listened attentively to the information given on organic and eco-friendly farming.

]]> 7728 2017-06-21 2017-06-21 16:13:23 In light of the massive destruction wreaked on sugar apple trees during last year’s typhoons, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Sugar Apple Orchard Windbreak Demonstration Event in the Taimali Township orchard of grower Zhan Qian-hong so as to remind growers to start taking preventative measures now. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the purpose of the event was to remind growers to make sure of their current wind protection capacity before the oncoming typhoon season. Furthermore, growers must also be continue to be alert with the recent heavy plum rains and foehn winds. At the event, growers were instructed on windbreak strategies, disease management techniques related to continual rainfall, the use of Philippine ebony (Diospyros egbert-walkeri Kosterm, a tree that works well as a natural windbreak), as well as how to decrease damage that can result from typhoons, foehn winds, and heavy rain. Taking such measures will decrease growers’ losses.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Sugar Apple Orchard Windbreak Demonstration Event.　An assistant researcher talks about windbreak measures for sugar apple orchards.

An assistant researcher speaks on pre- and post-typhoon disease management techniques.　Growers taking a look at a windbreak of Philippine ebony trees.

]]> 7724 2017-06-20 2017-06-20 13:51:03 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the General Sheath Blight Prevention and biochar Use for Organic Rice Demonstration Event at 10:30 a.m. on June 16 in the demonstration field of grower Zeng Ke-xin in Luye Township with the objectives of promoting the concept of creating a good and healthy environment, improving rice plant nutrition, and efficiently decreasing the occurrence of disease, all of which will allow rice to grow both healthy and strong. It was noted that going organic not only means the complete abstention from using chemical fertilizers and agrochemicals, but also the adherence to environmentally-friendly growing techniques so that the industry may achieve sustainable growth. The findings of the TTDARES regarding research on organic prevention of sheath blight include what environmental conditions lead to the occurrence of the disease, soil nutrition, crop growth, field management, and the use of organic prevention materials. Such prevention at the demonstration field was begun at the time of seedling transplantation, and indeed, a significant decline in the occurrence of sheath blight (-22.1%) was seen in mature plants. These highly efficient yet low-cost preventative measures are a slight improvement over existing methods. In addition to organic growers being able to use these methods to increase output quality, those who habitually grow rice may refer to these methods as a new form of prevention, keeping management costs low while furthering eco-friendly sustainable development.

Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosts the General Sheath Blight Prevention and Biochar Use for Organic Rice Demonstration Event.　Assistant researcher Lin introduces organic sheath blight prevention techniques.　Assistant researcher Liao speaks on organic rice management and the use of biochar.

Grower Zeng Ke-xin shares what he has learned from the demonstration event.　The difference in occurrence of sheath blight between the experimental field and the control field is quite obvious.　As can be seen in comparison to a rice plant from the control field, the plant that underwent organic sheath blight prevention is in significantly better condition.

]]> 7694 2017-05-23 2017-05-23 11:57:42 In order to give researchers a better understanding of the Satoyama Initiative and eco-agriculture concepts, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan invited Lee Kuang-Chung, an associate professor from the National Dong Hwa University Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, to give a lecture on May 18. The purpose was to integrate research and guidance for the indigenous farming industry and ecosystem services with the existing promotion of organic agriculture in Taitung. In this way, agriculture, biological diversity, and the enhancement of sustainability for means of livelihood in rural areas can be carried out together on a relatively large scale, propelling the development of Taitung’s ecoagriculture.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen introduces Professor Lee Kuang-Chung, stating that Taitung should actively work toward green industry development and build up an innovative agricultural industry.　Professor Lee Kuang-Chung discusses in detail the Satoyama Initiative and core concepts of ecoagriculture through a case study.　Participants and researchers asked the lecturer numerous questions.

]]> 7683 2017-05-09 2017-05-09 08:12:00 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan and the Jinfeng Township Administration Office held the Organic Cultivation Management and Technique Course for Taiwan Quinoa and Millet at the Shashi Station service center in Zhengxing Village of Jinfeng Township on May 2 – 3.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen and Jinfeng Township Mayor Song Xian-yi jointly hosted the opening. Chen stated that the three “jewel grains” of southeastern Taiwan, namely, Taiwan quinoa, millet, and pigeon peas, are the most popular special crops in the Taitung region. Those who choose to grow these crops must first consider proper timing, location, and cultivation technique to gain the most from their investments and reduce the possibility of damage from natural disasters. The natural environment of Jinfeng is quite suited to transformation toward organic cultivation, and Chen advised growers to rotate crops to allow for the sustainable use of the soil. Mayor Song encouraged the students to work together in developing the organic production industry as well as the secondary industries of processing and packaging so as to drive business opportunity for the overall agriculture industry in Jinfeng.

TTDARES Director Chen and Jinfeng Township Mayor Song jointly host the opening of the course.　Group photo of Director Chen, Mayor Song, and the students.

]]> 7655 2017-04-20 2017-04-20 09:23:20 In an effort to teach new farmers crop cultivation technique and give them an understanding of the overall condition of the agricultural industry, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held an “Introduction to Agriculture Course” from April 18 to 20 at the TTDARES regional education center. 30 people attended the event.

While hosting the opening, Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu stated that those who attended the course were younger than in years past, which will help inject vitality into the industry. He encouraged the students to do their best to learn what would be offered during the informative course so as to gain a firm foundation for their futures as growers. He also reminded them that even after the course, the TTDARES will always be happy to offer any assistance they may need regarding agricultural questions or problems.

The class was highly informative, discussing topics such as TTDARES achievements in agricultural R&D, an overview of the industry, an introduction to agricultural machinery, special crops and grains unique to Taitung, measures to be taken against natural disasters, smart fertilization, and disease/pest control techniques. The students were indeed diligent and learned much, allowing them a greater degree of confidence in their futures as growers.

Deputy Director Chen hosts the opening and welcomes the students.　Group photo of Deputy Director Chen and the students.

]]> 7639 2017-03-28 2017-03-28 16:14:52 In an effort to enhance grower management techniques regarding soil and crop nutrition and the control of pests and diseases, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Smart Fertilization and Disease/Pest Control for Rice Lecture on the morning of March 23 at the Chishang Farmers’ Association Supermarket. The lecture was hosted by TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen, and over 100 attendees from legislator Liu Zhao-hao’s office, the Taitung County Council, the Taitung County Environmental Protection Bureau, the Chishang Farmers’ Association, and specialized rice production and marketing zones as well as farmers from neighboring towns and townships were present. Farmers participated enthusiastically and had a lot of interaction with the lecturers, affirming the TTDARES’s efforts at helping them learn useful techniques.

Director Chen stated that since the end of February, the temperature in Chishang has been extremely volatile, and the amount of precipitation has gradually increased. With Tomb Sweeping Day coming up in early April, this seems to be an accurate fulfillment of the old adage, “Eight days out of ten will see rain during the Tomb Sweeping season.” With the constant drizzle and dramatic changes in temperature, disease is very likely to strike rice crops. Soil management, fertilization, and disease control are closely linked. Diseases such as suffocation disease, sheath blight, and rice blast may be controlled well if the right measures are taken. In response, the TTDARES held the event to share effective soil and fertilization measures as well as eco-friendly disease/pest prevention techniques and organic cultivation strategies. Moreover, the Taitung County Environmental Protection Bureau was invited to promote the concept of using fungi to decompose rice straw instead of burning it. Such measures will not only make rice cultivation safer for the environment, but also reduce labor while increasing output.

First, assistant researcher Liao Jing-ying discussed soil management and smart fertilization. Through a case study on the nutritional demands of rice and soil sample analysis, factors influencing growth and output were discussed. Furthermore, the antagonistic effects among elements as well as fertilizer selection and application were introduced. Liao promoted the use of the TTDARES’s free soil sample analysis service so as to lower costs and boost output and quality in an effort to achieve industry sustainability. He reminded farmers that proper soil management helps reduce the occurrence of disease. He then discussed how rice straw processing, earlier soil preparation, deep burying of the straw, land leveling, and field draining and sunning can effectively reduce the occurrence of rice suffocation.

Then, assistant researcher Lin Jun-qi spoke on rice disease and pest control. With the arrival of weather fronts that rapidly change the weather from clear to rainy and cause drastic differences in temperature, plants are apt to collect disease-inducing dew in the mornings and evenings, and disease is especially common in fields not managed well, such as fields with: an overuse of nitrogen fertilizers, plants located close to each other, or a low degree of draft. In addition to biological materials, disease control also requires a boost of the disease resistance of the rice itself. Silicon can help with this, and this is especially apparent in the fight against sheath blight, brown spot, and rice blast; it has also been seen to halt the progress of bacterial leaf blight. Growers may take advantage of carbonized rice husks along with analysis of their soil to lower the costs of disease prevention.

Finally, Jiang Ming-zhe of the Taitung County Environmental Protection Bureau talked about the use of fungi to decompose rice straw in place of burning. Burning straw in the fields is harmful to the health of the person doing the burning, and it can also threaten the safety of those on nearby roads. With the recent upsurge in tourism in Chishang, Jiang emphasized the need for growers to work together in keeping the local environment clean and inviting. After rice has been harvested, a harvesting machine may be used to cut the straw into 5 – 7 cm long sections. Then, the straw should be spread evenly on the ground before filling the field with water so the straw will become saturated. Afterwards, fungi should be scattered onto the straw, and the water level of the field should be maintained at a depth of about 3 – 5 cm. When the straw turns black, soft, and rotten after about 14 days, it should be ploughed into the soil. The fungi will not only decompose the straw, but also allow the straw to become a natural fertilizer. The Bureau expressed its hopes that farmers will take to this new method.

Director Chen hosts the event.　Assistant researcher Liao discusses rice soil management and smart fertilization.　Assistant researcher Lin talks about disease and pest control and organic prevention measures.

Jiang Ming-zhe of the Taitung County Environmental Protection Bureau discusses the benefits of using fungi to decompose rice straw as opposed to burning.　Zhang Jia-zhi of the Taitung County Environmental Protection Bureau answers attendees’ questions.

]]> 7637 2017-03-23 2017-03-23 16:37:04 In promoting the cultivation of Taiwan’s indigenous gac, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the “Gac Cultivation Management Lecture” at TTDARES headquarters on March 21. Over 100 people attended the lecture, including representatives from legislator Liu Zhao-hao’s office, the Eastern Region Branch of the Agriculture and Food Agency, and Farmers’ Associations from all over Taitung County. In addition to discussing the fruit’s features, mass production, smart fertilization, and disease/pest control, the construction of tunnel-shaped canopies for growing the fruit was demonstrated on site, and attendees were invited to partake in hands-on learning. In this way, farmers learned more about technique regarding the growth of the fruit, laying a firm foundation for the future development of the industry.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that Taiwan’s indigenous gac is different than species found in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries. The aril of the variety promoted by the TTDARES has a fresh, sweet, mild, moist flavor without any oily, bitter, or astringent aspects, so it is great for use in juices or as a natural ingredient valuable to the dining and baking industries. Over the past two years, the TTDARES has made breakthroughs associated with seed germination bottlenecking. In addition to sharing its germination technique with two growers, the TTDARES has also established mass production, smart fertilization, and pest/disease control techniques in the hope of expanding the amount of land devoted to growing the fruit and bolstering its production to an industrial-sized scale.

First, assistant researcher Hsueh, Ming-Tung of the TTDARES Department of Crop Improvement discussed the cultivation of indigenous gac and spoke in detail about research carried out by the TTDARES in recent years on the cultivation of this dioecious vine crop using tunnel-shaped canopies along with the process of perennial production. Then, assistant researcher Liao, Ching-ying of the Department of Crop Environment talked about soil sampling in new gac fields, plant nutrition management, and smart fertilization in accordance with crop and soil features. Growers were welcomed to make use of the free soil analysis service at the TTDARES. Assistant researcher Hsu, Yu-Tzu discussed disease prevention and insect prevention (such as for melon flies) as well as related information. Finally, a hands-on demonstration with technical guidance was given on properly constructing a tunnel-shaped canopy suited to growing indigenous gac. Those present expressed a high degree of satisfaction with the information given on cultivation techniques, smart fertilization, and disease/pest control as well as the hands-on demo, and they also voiced a number of suggestions and discussed more about the subject amongst each other. In this way, they learned a great deal about the mass production and development of indigenous gac, which will turn the crop into an industry of larger scale in the future.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Assistant researcher Hsueh discusses indigenous gac cultivation management techniques.　Assistant researcher Liao speaks on smart fertilization for indigenous gac.

Assistant researcher Hsu talks about disease and pest control for indigenous gac.　Attendees learn hands-on how to build a tunnel-shaped canopy for growing indigenous gac.　Attendees shared suggestions and had informative exchanges.

]]> 7599 2017-03-01 2017-03-01 13:48:46 In an effort to promote the development of the organic agriculture industry in Taitung, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held an Organic Agriculture Promotion Lecture on February 21 at the Fulyuwan Organic Farm in Donghe Township. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosted the event. Topics spoken on included the production of liquid organic fertilizer, smart fertilization concepts, and organic disease/pest control techniques. The TTDARES also announced that it provides free soil, plants, irrigation water analysis, and diagnostic services for disease/pest control so as to aid farmers in overcoming the difficulties associated with organic farming. This will increase farmers’ willingness to go organic and will further push the overall agricultural industry in Taitung in an environmentally-friendly direction.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Assistant researcher Lin discusses organic disease/pest control techniques.　Zhou Shi-he, secretary from legislator Liu Zhao-hao’s office, asks questions about environmentally-friendly farming and the organic farming industry.

]]> 7590 2017-02-09 2017-02-09 14:55:25 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan signed an MOU with the Dr. Cecilia Koo Botanic Conservation and Environmental Protection Foundation on February 7, 2017 at the conservation center grounds in Gaoshu Township of Pingtung County. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen and foundation CEO Li Jia-wei signed the MOU with witnesses from delegations sent by National Tsing Hua University and Chunghwa Post.

Due to Taiwan’s diverse topography and climate, it is home to such an abundance of fern species that it might be called a “kingdom of ferns.” In an effort to enhance agricultural technology R&D in recent years, the TTDARES has made merchandising its major R&D direction. It has given special effort to technology research for fern germplasm protection, cultivation, and breeding, thus establishing cultivation and breeding modes for Taiwan’s indigenous ferns. As a result, the TTDARES wishes to cooperate with the conservation center toward fern germplasm protection, cultivation, domestication, introduction, and application development while actively working to open up domestic and foreign markets while providing the industry with the technology they develop. The conservation center was established in January of 2007 by Koo Cheng-yun, chairman of TCC International Holdings Ltd., and Cecilia Y. Koo. At the same time, the Dr. Cecilia Koo Botanic Conservation and Environmental Protection Foundation was established by the Taiwan Cement Corporation, the Ho-Ping Power Company, the China Synthetic Rubber Corporation, and the Jiantan Temple. The foundation’s mission is to promote the conservation center’s operations and preserve living specimens of various rare, precious plants that possess unique ecological traits so that they may be used for research.

The MOU focuses on the three main aspects of fern-related technology experience sharing, research personnel exchanges, and joint R&D efforts. This will establish a cooperative foundation so that both parties may consolidate their R&D resources and complement each other’s needs, opening up a new climate for indigenous fern development and application.

TTDARES Director Chen (right) and Dr. Cecilia Koo Botanic Conservation and Environmental Protection Foundation CEO Li (left) hold their signed MOUs.　Group photo of MOU signees and witnesses at the conservation center.

]]> 7588 2017-02-08 2017-02-08 10:22:30 With the beginning of spring and the Year of the Rooster, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held an event to recognize growers and Farmers’ Association members who have assisted the TTDARES with experiments and research over the past year. The event took place on February 6 at 11:00 a.m. on the second floor of the TTDARES regional education center. Staff from the TTDARES and growers from all over Taitung County attended.

TTDARES Director Chen stated that the event is an expression of gratitude to all who have worked hard and contributed to the efforts of the TTDARES over the past year, allowing experiments, research, lectures, trainings, and promotional events to be carried out smoothly and successfully. He also encouraged TTDARES staff to continue working hard during 2017 in the areas of developing new plant varieties and new technology to provide farmers with the best resources and support. He then wished all present good fortune and a prosperous Year of the Rooster.

2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers Award recipient Chen Tian-qi was also invited to the event. In addition to presenting him with a wooden inscribed plaque, Director Chen also presented farmers and Farmers’ Association staff who have made significant contributions to TTDARES experiments, research, and promotions with awards. Recipients included Li Xing-jin, Pan Wan-yi, Zeng Chun-hua, Xu Min-xiong, Liu Ying-huang, Shen Guo-zhou, Gao Duan-yun, Cai Hui-dun, Lin Zhi-mao, Li Jun-de, Zhang Chun-ji, Lu Mei-gui, and Liu Zhan-hong. The warm, congratulatory atmosphere at the event made it enjoyable for all present.

Group photo of Director Chen and all who attended.　Director Chen presents a congratulatory plaque to 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmer Award recipient Chen Tian-qi.

]]> 7567 2017-01-17 2017-01-17 16:26:22 In promoting the winged bean, a crop grown by the indigenous people of Taitung, The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture held the “Winged Bean Demonstration Event” on January 11 in the fields of a young farmer named Liao Jia-zhu. Over 100 people attended the event. In addition to farmers, representatives from the office of legislator Liu Zhao-hao, the Taitung branch of the Agriculture and Food Agency, the Taitung County Government, and Farmers’ Associations all over Taitung were present. Besides introducing the winged bean including its features, cultivation, and indicators of when pods may be harvested, the achievements of the TTDARES in offering guidance to young local farmers growing special crops were also shared.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that winged beans, also known as Goa beans, four-angled beans, and fadas (in the Amis language) are a common legume eaten by people of the Amis tribe. The TTDARES has spent years researching winged beans and over time has established techniques to grow them large quantities, seed preservation techniques, information on their nutrients, and indicators on when they can be harvested. Such accomplishments have not only aided in the economized large-scale production of winged beans, but through the discovery indicators on the correct timing of harvesting, the problems of consistency in quality and poor texture/taste have been resolved. So as to make practical use of the years of research and development by the TTDARES in the Taitung agricultural industry and to promote special crops in general, Liao Jia-zhu’s farmland, where high-quality winged beans are being produced with the guidance of the TTDARES, was chosen as the site of the event. To date, a number of companies have been steadily ordering from the crops grown by farmers receiving guidance from the TTDARES. In the future, a direct-purchase platform will be established for big-name chain supermarkets so that consumers may purchase and enjoy the purity of fresh produce grown in Taitung.

In addition to assistant researcher Hsueh Ming-tung explaining how a simple canopy frame is used in the cultivation of winged beans along with related techniques, production flow, and harvesting indicators, Liao Jia-zhu shared about his winged bean cultivation experiences. Through the on-site observation, exchanges, and explanations, those present learned a lot and also offered a number of suggestions, allowing all present to gain a clearer understanding on the cultivation of winged beans and their development potential for the future.

Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Assistant researcher Hsueh talks about winged bean cultivation techniques.　Liao Jia-zhu shares his experiences on winged bean cultivation.

Attendees engage in informative exchanges at the event.　Attendees engage in informative exchanges at the event.

]]> 7564 2017-01-13 2017-01-13 13:50:47 The 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers and Model Farmers Awards Ceremony was held in Taipei on the afternoon of January 10 by the Council of Agriculture (COA). Executive Yuan Premier Lin Chuan and COA Minister Tsao Chi-hung personally presented winners with award plaques, and representatives from related agriculture administration agencies were also present to offer congratulations. Accompanied by his family, Chen Tian-qi, also known as “Uncle Turmeric,” attended the event to receive his award. Chen has invested years into the growth of organic turmeric in Taitung, fully implementing sustainable management concepts while devoting himself to the advancement of turmeric extraction technology and preservation. He has launched a number of products, creating momentum and new opportunities for the turmeric industry. As a result, he certainly deserves to be considered a model for the Taiwanese agricultural industry. Despite tough competition from all over Taiwan, Chen’s achievements allowed him to win the honor of being named one of the 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers.

Premier Lin Chuan congratulates the winners during his speech.　Chen Tian-qi is presented with an award plaque by Premier Lin Chuan and COA Minister Tsao Chi-hung.　Premier Lin and Minister Tsao present all ten winners with award certificates.

Group photo of Chen Tian-qi, TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen, and staff from the Taitung County Farmers’ Association.

]]> 7537 2016-12-20 2016-12-15 13:23:39 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Farmer’s Academy—Post-Training Conference and Lecture for Young Growers in the TTDARES regional education center on December 13. Trainees and young local growers came for a total of over 20 attendees.

In the morning, Chen Tian-qi, who runs the Happy Mountain Garden of Wild Herbs and Vegetables and has been named one of the winners of the 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers Award, shared about innovative management techniques and experience in the agricultural field. The event was hosted by TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen, who in addition to discussing how trainees would carry on with farm work after the training, also offered assistance with related questions on farming techniques. Then in the afternoon, the event moved to the Toyugi Hot Spring & Spa in Zhiben where DIY classes were held on making dyes and healthy drinks from plants. In this way, not only was everyone able to further their relationships, they also had a chance to stimulate their creativity toward innovation in agricultural products and sharpen their competitive edge.

Plans for next year’s Farmer’s Academy training are already in the making. For those in the agricultural industry who are interested, please follow us on the Farmer’s Academy website (http://academy.coa.gov.tw) for more information.

Group photo of Farmer’s Academy trainees and TTDARES Director Chen.　Trainees learn how to make plant dyes at the Toyugi Hot Spring & Spa in Zhiben.

]]> 7529 2016-12-13 2016-12-12 11:53:53 In a show of what has been achieved over the years for organic agriculture research and in an effort to promote organic farming concepts, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the 2016 Taitung Organic Agriculture Development and Experimental Research Achievements Conference in the second floor meeting room of the TTDARES regional education center. A total of 140 people attended, including those from the agricultural industry, government, and academic sectors, along with farmers and government agricultural administration agency personnel.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the theme of the conference was “organic Lohas,” which is one of the TTDARES’ three core technology focal points. Agricultural administration agency personnel from the Central Government and local government agencies, colleges and universities, experts in the field, growers, and others working in the agriculture sector were invited to partake in discussions on such topics as strategies for the development of the organic agriculture industry in Taiwan, the future of organic farming policy in Taitung, what organic farming entails and its effects, management of organic processing, and marketing experiences. In addition, staff from the TTDARES shared their research achievements on organic farming made over the years, including the creation and management of biodiversity in orchards, how to process dried organic fruit, management strategies for organic rice growing, organic cultivation and management of crops grown by indigenous peoples, the status of the development of food and agriculture education in Taitung, and research on labor-saving machinery in the organic cultivation of Taiwan quinoa.

Through the sharing that took place at the conference, those present were able to gain a better understanding of the future direction of organic farming in Taitung as well as major research topics, setting the stage for the TTDARES to continue to work at creating innovative technology and building up a local organic farming industry that will be known for a diversity of high-quality, unique products.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the 2016 Taitung Organic Agriculture Development and Experimental Research Achievements Conference.　Lai Ming-yang, section chief of the Farm Chemicals and Machinery Division (of the Agriculture and Food Agency, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan) discusses strategies for the development of the organic agriculture industry in Taiwan.　Director Xu Rui-gui of the Taitung County Government Department of Agriculture discusses the future of organic farming policy in Taitung.

Chairperson Wang Zhong-he of the Department of Plant Industry at National Pingtung University of Science and Technology discusses what organic farming entails and its effects.　Li Qi-jun, head of the Qingliang Ecofarm, shares his organic food processing and marketing experiences.　TTDARES assistant researcher Lin discusses organic rice farming management strategies.

TTDARES assistant researcher Huang discusses key techniques in organic cultivation of indigenous peoples’ special crops.　Attendees enthusiastically share their experiences.　Devices invented by TTDARES researchers for organic farming on exhibition at the conference.

]]> 7497 2016-11-14 2016-11-14 09:42:10 So as to help the “Ladies of the Fields” create new beverages with locally-produced ingredients, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan will is holding the Ladies of the Fields Study Workshop and the Ladies of the Fields On-Site Guidance classes on November 8, 21, and 29. The first class was held in the second floor meeting room of the TTDARES regional education center. 50 people attended the event, including students from Ladies of the Fields classes and home economics classes from all over Taitung as well as those in the leisure agriculture and B&B industries.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the TTDARES has worked hard on the research and development of products made from Taitung’s organic crops, creating a unique value for the Lohas industry in Taitung and driving the development of the leisure agriculture industry. He looks forward to this event providing the Ladies of the Fields students with yet another skill while adding something new to the local dining industry.

The event includes classes on the use and marketing of local ingredients, beverage design and planning, and instruction related to creativity in the making of new beverages. The classes discuss current dining trends and encourage the use of locally-produced ingredients, which not only promotes health, but also conforms to energy-saving and low-carbon principles. In the first class, the instructors demonstrated the use of Taiwan quinoa in making a variety of beverages, inspiring creativity by allowing attendees to have a hands-on experience. On November 21 at the Donghe Township administration office and November 29 at the Guanshan Farmers Association Rice School, each group will display their creations, share their experiences, and give demonstrations. All involved look forward to providing the public with a greater diversity of wonderful beverages to enjoy.

Director Chen hosts the opening.　Zou Hui-fen teaching.　Wang Yu-qi giving a demonstration.

The students enjoying hands-on instruction.　A new beverage created from Taiwan quinoa.

]]> 7473 2016-10-28 2016-10-27 14:51:56 Mr. Chen Tian-qi (known as “Uncle Turmeric”), recommended by the TTDARES as the representative from Taitung for the 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers event, was named as one of the winners from among 22 highly-qualified candidates. Chen has long promoted the organic turmeric industry in Taitung, and in addition to producing excellent-quality turmeric, he has also participated in R&D regarding product development and diversity, helping to create new business opportunity. Such promotional sales and exhibition projects and events have successfully marketed his brand, “Uncle Turmeric’s Happy Mountain Garden of Wild Vegetables and Herbs,” all across Taiwan and overseas. Chen has opened up his organic ecology fields to visitors and guided tours, enthusiastically sharing about his organic cultivation methods, helping other growers go organic, and actively injecting life into the local leisure agriculture industry. Furthermore, Chen frequently gives attention to disadvantaged groups by participating in charity services. His overall outstanding achievements have made him very deserving of being selected as one of the 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers. Chen’s hard work and special achievements are sure to encourage others in the industry to work harder, which in turn will drive the overall healthy development of the agriculture industry in Taitung.

Chen has participated in turmeric R&D to create new business opportunity.　TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen represents Minister Cao Chi-hung of the Council of Agriculture in congratulating Chen (center) as a 2017 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmer.

]]> 7471 2016-10-27 2016-10-27 09:31:55 Sugar apples and atemoyas are important crops for Taitung’s economy. Since July of this year, Taitung has been affected by one typhoon after another, and this has seriously hindered production. So as to help growers get their orchards back in shape as quickly as possible, bring about sustainable development of the local sugar apple industry, and ensure the fruit is safe, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held lectures on post-natural disaster sugar apple re-cultivation techniques and the safe use of agrochemicals in Luye, Donghe, Taitung City, Taimali, and Beinan on the respective dates of October 5, 7, 18, 19, and 21. Around 350 growers in total attended the lectures. Topics discussed included how to prepare orchards before a typhoon hits, post-disaster re-cultivation techniques, post-disaster fertilization management techniques, disease/pest prevention techniques, and regulations concerning the use of agrochemicals. In this way, growers will be able to speed up the process of recovery and decrease their losses while enhancing self-management, in turn augmenting their competitive edge.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts “Post-Natural Disaster Sugar Apple Re-Cultivation Techniques and Safe Use of Agrochemicals Lecture” in Taitung City.　TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts “Post-Natural Disaster Sugar Apple Re-Cultivation Techniques and Safe Use of Agrochemicals Lecture” in Taimali.　Legislator Liu Zhao-hao speaks at “Post-Natural Disaster Sugar Apple Re-Cultivation Techniques and Safe Use of Agrochemicals Lecture and Citizens’ Forum” in Taimali.

A large number of growers attended the lecture in Banchiu (Beinan).

]]> 7460 2016-10-19 2016-10-19 16:40:43 On October 17, growers from all over Taiwan attended the “Farmer’s Academy—Advanced Organic Grain Cultivation Class” held by the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that in recent years, the TTDARES has actively promoted the organic cultivation of grains in accordance with regional crop features so as to increase the benefits of such crops. In addition to continuing work on millet, pigeon pea, and Taiwan quinoa cultivation, the TTDARES is also helping growers improve their cultivation techniques and assisting them in the development of agricultural products. This is an active effort at providing consumers with healthy choices while encouraging growers to act as a human safeguard throughout the process of preparing their products for sale. In this way, growers will have a sense of responsibility to create safe products and bring the whole agriculture industry closer to the goal of producing healthy, safe food.

Group photo of Director Chen and attendees.　Director Chen hosts the opening of the event.

]]> 7446 2016-10-05 2016-10-06 17:01:51 In promoting the development of organic cultivation for special crops, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its “Organic Agriculture Promotion Lecture” on September 30 at the Sunrise Club House meeting room of the Taimali Farmers’ Association. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosted the event. During the lecture, organic cultivation techniques, organic fertilization management, rational fertilization methods, and organic disease and pest control techniques were discussed. Moreover, attendees were told that the TTDARES provides free soil, plants, irrigation water analysis, and disease and pest diagnosis to help growers deal with potential problems associated with organic farming and increase willingness to turn from traditional to organic farming methods.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Associate researcher Chen discusses organic cultivation techniques and product development for millet, pigeon peas, and Taiwan quinoa.　Assistant researcher Lin speaks on organic disease and pest control.

A representative from the Taitung County Government Department of Agriculture talks about government measures to guide organic agriculture.　A photo of growers who attended the event.

]]> 7442 2016-10-03 2016-10-03 14:35:52 To promote the development of organic farming in Taitung, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Taiwan Djulis Organic Cultivation and Mechanized Sowing Demonstration Event on the morning of September 23 in Jialan Village of Jinfeng Township. 92 people interested in growing Taiwan djulis organically attended. Taiwan djulis is native to Taiwan and can be found throughout the island. It has traditionally been cultivated by the Paiwan and Rukai tribes, and it is now mainly grown in Taitung and Pingtung. The plant has three distinct features: the ears are a bright variety of colors, it is highly nutritious, and the plants are largely free from serious disease and pest threats, which means development of the crop is worth the effort. Since the plant’s ears and leaves are full of color, it turns the fallow land or hillsides on which it is grown into a beautiful sea of color when mature, giving the local landscape a majestic, lovely feel. Through this demonstration event, the TTDARES hopes that farmers will be encouraged to grow more of the crop at lower costs. The event dealt with organic cultivation management techniques, nutrition, and common diseases/pests for Taiwan djulis. So far, there are no approved agrochemicals to fight disease and pests for this plant, so when such problems first begin to occur, biological control methods should be used; pesticides may not be used as they will leave residue. Finally, a new form of machinery used in sowing the plant was introduced. Currently, growers usually sow by hand or by means of powered machinery that is not fully automated, but these methods lead to high costs later on in the area of weed management. In contrast, when seeds are sown with the self-propelled small grain sower developed by the TTDARES, it only takes 0.51 hours to sow 0.3-0.4 kilograms of seed on 0.1 hectare of land, and the amount of fuel used is 0.23-0.25 liters. This new machinery allows for quick line sowing which not only saves on the amount of seed used, but also makes later weed management easier. All in all, it is the perfect helpmate for the Taiwan djulis grower!

Deputy-Director Chen Yu-chu welcomes attendees and discusses the objectives of the event.　TTDARES assistant researcher Huang shares organic cultivation techniques of Taiwan djulis.　TTDARES assistant researcher Xu discusses disease and pest prevention techniques for Taiwan djulis.

TTDARES associate technician introduces the Taiwan djulis sower.　Taiwan djulis sower in use in the field.

]]> 7392 2016-09-05 2016-09-05 08:31:58 So as to augment the management and guidance capabilities of agricultural extension agents, the TTDARES held the “Agricultural Extension Agent Guidance Training” on August 30. The morning session was a discussion on organic agriculture as well as food and agriculture education led by Professor Dong Shi-rui, who is also the chair of the Taiwan Agricultural Extension Association. Dong spoke on the current developmental trends and vision for organic growing along with the importance of food and agriculture education. He suggested that classes should be held that integrate education regarding agriculture, food, and the environment along with such elements as special local agricultural features and traditional culture, which would turn Taitung into a place for unique food and agriculture education extension. The afternoon session was led by CEO Vivian Chang of Yes I Creative International taught on the writing and carrying out of plans, emphasizing that plan objectives and the methods used to implement them must be clear, concise, and logical in order to bring out the plan’s special highlights and find favor with reviewers. Those who attended expressed that the wealth of information presented is certain to help them in their work.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the opening of the event.　Group photo of attendees.　Professor Dong Shi-rui speaks on organic growing and food and agriculture education.

CEO Vivian Chang of Yes I Creative International teaches on plan writing techniques.

]]> 7389 2016-09-01 2016-09-01 11:44:55 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the “Special Crop Organic Cultivation Management Techniques Class” at the Sunny Country of Formosa Resort in Taimali on August 16 and 23. Over 20 farmers from indigenous villages in the region participated in the training.

At the end of the class, TTDARES Deputy-Director Chen Yu-chu stated that the indigenous villages located near the South-Link Line (Taiwan’s most southerly segment of railway connecting the east and west coasts) are promoting organic cultivation for special crops such as Taiwan quinoa, millet, roselles, and pigeon peas. This not only ensures the safety of the produce, but also establishes a separate segment in the market while guaranteeing quality. The class, which was integrated with the Indigenous Agricultural Action Class and held near where the farmers live, was quite relevant to the current state of the industry in quickly providing on-site, innovative, value-packed service to enhance growers’ organic cultivation management techniques and offer the most efficient assistance for work in the field. Such knowledge will help drive sustainable development for the agricultural industry in the South-Link Line region. Deputy-Director Chen also stated he hoped the attendees would share what they had learned at the class with other growers, and he encouraged them to continue attending similar classes so as to allow the local farming industry to further improve.

TTDARES Deputy-Director Chen Yu-chu presents a certificate of class completion.　Group photo of attendees.　Dr. Chen Zhen-yi of the TTDARES lectures on the development and applications of organic special crop products.

Attendees shared enthusiastically during the closing discussion.

]]> 7332 2016-08-04 2016-08-01 15:49:39 With about 263 hectares of land devoted to growing ginger (mostly in Taimali and Beinan Townships), Taitung is one of the main production regions in Taiwan for this crop. The wind and rain brought by Typhoon Nepartak caused damage to about 68 of these hectares, 50 of them being located in Taimali. In an effort to aid affected growers, the TTDARES provided them with recultivation techniques.

A service team from the TTDARES surveyed the land and found that the strong winds of the typhoon caused leaves to break, yellow, and wither. Growers have been encouraged to clean up their fields as soon as possible, removing broken and fallen leaves. If soil has run off or if the bases of plants have become exposed, growers may save the plants by applying a suitable amount of liquid nitrogen fertilizer to the leaf surface (refer to product instructions for dilution ratio), and before there is further growth, it should be fertilized again. In addition, since ginger is weak and apt to become infected with soft rot during July and August due to high temperatures and frequent rain, growers may consult plant protection manuals on the use of etridiazole, which is effective at preventing further damage from soft rot. Growers may consult product instructions for the dilution ratios of liquid/powder etridiazole. Three liters of the diluted agent should be used on each square meter of affected land and the surrounding land. Unaffected areas may be sprayed until there is an even layer of moisture on the soil to prevent spread. After using the agent, growers must be aware of when it is safe to harvest to avoid problems with agent residue.

Ginger is an important rhizome crop in Taitung, and the place where Nepartak first hit land happened to be the main ginger production region of Taimali Township, all in all damaging about 60% of crops county-wide. For any related questions, growers are welcome to contact the TTDARES Horticulture Lab at 633@mail.ttdares.gov.tw.

Strong winds caused leaves to be break, yellow, and wither.　Crops in Taimali were seriously damaged. (Photo courtesy of Taimali Township Administration Office.)　Crops in Taimali were seriously damaged. (Photo courtesy of Taimali Township Administration Office.)

Fields should be cleaned up as soon as possible (left) and then intertilled and earthed up (right).

]]> 7289 2016-06-24 2016-06-24 14:41:24 In an effort to promote the development of leisure agriculture, enhance the innovative and healthy usage of locally-grown food ingredients, and integrate local stories, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its “Taitung Picnic Basket Competition” on June 22 at National Taitung College. 12 teams participated in the event. The event rules specified the use of organic ingredients such as roselles, millet, pigeon peas, Taiwan quinoa, Chinese violet, Portulaca oleracea, and fameflower. Contestants had two hours to create three snacks and one drink. After evaluation by three judges, the team from the Tian Mama Zhengyi Tea Shop (Luye Farmers’ Association) was declared the winner.

The judges were associate professors Hong Wei-ze and Zou Hui-fen from the Department of Restaurant and Hotel Management at Taitung College as well as chairperson Huang Qing-an of the Zhiben Hot Springs Tourism Development and Promotion Association. Within just two hours, contestants came up with some amazing treats, and with their unique stories, onlookers could not help but drool in anticipation. There was a tie for second prize between Lijia Chuzou (Taitung Farmers’ Association) and the home economics class of the Guanshan Farmers’ Association. Third place went to Highway 11 Flower Fields (Chenggong Farmers’ Association), the Donghe Farmers’ Association, and the Tian Mama Healthy Restaurant (Chishang Farmers’ Association). The remaining contestants (Bayang Amis, Egy Vilàg, Pu-men Senior High School, the Chalami Home Economics Class from Taimali, Autumn Fragrance Handmade Steamed and Stuffed Buns, and the Changbin Farmers’ Association) received creativity awards.

The TTDARES plans to compile all the recipes created during the contest into a booklet so as to promote uniquefood made from organic ingredients and drive the leisure agriculture industry in Taitung’s rural areas. The book may be used by those involved in the tourism, dining, and B&B industries.

TTDARES Director Chen hosts the opening of the event.　A contestant in action.　Evaluation by judges.

A judge offers comments.　Group photo of TTDARES Director Chen, Principal Chen Zhenyang, the three judges, and the winners.　The winning picnic basket on display.

A picnic basket brimming with novelty.

]]> 7278 2016-06-23 2016-06-20 10:18:56 In promoting organic, environmentally-friendly concepts and cultivation techniques for the sake of protecting the local ecology and increasing biological diversity, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its “Organic Rice Weed, Pest, and Disease Control Demonstration Event” at 10:00 on the morning of June 17 in Guanshan. Around 80 growers attended the event. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the TTDARES, the Tse-Xin Organic Agriculture Foundation, and the Dongfeng Rice Mill have teamed up this year in encouraging growers to apply for eco-friendliness certification in the Dianguang Borough of Guanshan. With integration of the production and marketing of rice, for the first season, a contracted price of at least NTD 1,900 per 60 kilograms of rice will be set, increasing farmers’ profits. In an effort to promote organic farming, the TTDARES has developed an integrated mode of rice cultivation which takes into account rice variety, soil preparation, weed control, fertilization, applesnail control, and strategies for pest/disease control. This event, in the hope of getting more farmers to use organic, eco-friendly cultivation methods, focused on the development of suitable modes of operation for small areas so as to produce steady, high-quality yields with minimal investment and management.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts Organic Rice Weed, Pest, and Disease Control Demonstration Event.　An assistant researcher explains organic weed control measures.　An assistant researcher explains organic applesnail control measures.

An assistant researcher explains organic pest and disease control measures.　Attendees take a look at the fruits of organic rice farming.

]]> 7277 2016-06-20 2016-06-20 09:50:36 In promoting organic cultivation techniques, eco-friendly farming, and increased biological diversity, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its “Organic Rice Cultivation Demonstration Event” at 10:00 on the morning of June 14 in Changbin Township. Nearly 100 people attended the event. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that with Changbin’s geography being mostly hilly, rice is mainly grown on stepped fields; there are very few large fields of rice. Moreover, streams running through the area divide land into small- and medium-sized fields. Fields are irrigated with water from the coastal mountains. Thus, there is no pollution and a great diversity of biology. With one of its borders being the Pacific Ocean, this beautiful area is subject to seasonal winds. In general, such conditions make it well-suited to organic farming. The TTDARES has worked to promote organic farming, and as a result, developed an integrated mode of rice cultivation which takes into account rice variety, soil preparation, weed control, fertilization, applesnail control, and strategies for pest/disease control. This mode of cultivation offers steady, high-quality yields with minimal investment and management, appealing to more farmers to enter the sustainable industry of organic rice growing.

Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the Organic Rice Cultivation Demonstration Event.　An assistant researcher explains organic weed control measures.　Placing nets at water inlets helps keep applesnails out of fields.

Organic methods produce plump, high-quality rice kernels.　Organic methods are environmentally-friendly, allowing for the coexistence of a variety of insects.　Changbin is a region of beautiful scenery that is well-suited to organic growing.

]]> 7275 2016-06-16 2016-06-15 15:10:01 In an effort to encourage the women in the Ladies of the Fields group to use local agricultural produce in bringing out the potential for great food and creating dishes that can only be found in Taitung, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the “Ladies of the Fields Study Workshop” in the meeting room on the second floor of the TTDARES education center on June 3. A total of 64 people from the Ladies of the Fields group, home economics classes, leisure farms, and B&Bs from all over Taitung attended the event.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that with Taitung’s location in southeastern Taiwan, a place of beautiful water, majestic mountains, and little air pollution, people at the TTDARES have put a lot of work into research on the cultivation of special crops and the development of numerous related products. The goal is to create a whole cuisine native to Taitung through the integration of the region’s high-quality agricultural products with the dining industry and produce-based farm tourism. In addition to helping the Ladies of the Fields become familiar with how to use local ingredients, the workshop also had as its aim the improvement of cooking techniques and sparking creativity in promoting the development of the Lohas industry in Taitung.

Besides the informative content of the class taught by Yu Pei-hong (chairperson of the Taiwan Healthy and Creative Cuisine Development Association) and the emphasis on a complete understanding of food hygiene, attendees also became familiar with the special features of numerous local ingredients and cooking skills through hands-on experience, meeting the objective of inspiring creativity for new products that can be used for picnics.

Director Chen Hsin-yen speaks at the opening.　Yu Pei-hong interacts with attendees.　Yu Pei-hong demonstrates the making of a dish.

Attendees get hands-on experience.　Picnic sweets made from Taiwan quinoa.

]]> 7244 2016-05-17 2016-05-17 09:31:49 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan and the Jinfeng Township administration office held a two-day class called “Organic Growing Techniques for Taiwan Quinoa and Millet” on May 10-11 at the visitor center in Zhengxing Village. At the class, the TTDARES offered all it has learned through research to the new generation of growers in local indigenous villages.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen and Township Secretary Su Zhongchun hosted the event together. At the opening, Director Chen stated the rich agricultural resources in indigenous villages, such as Taiwan quinoa, millet, and pigeon peas, are popular with consumers and have gained a stable place for themselves in the market while being known for quality. This is a great source of momentum for indigenous village development. The TTDARES will continue to support the development of all kinds of technology to help indigenous growers overcome the problems associated with organic growing. This will encourage more people to engage in organic farming, in turn pushing the use of organic farming for special crops characteristic of indigenous villages.

TTDARES Director Chen and Jinfeng Township Secretary Su host the event together.　Group photo of Director Chen, Secretary Su, and the students.　Associate researcher Chen Zhen-yi teaches important aspects of organic Taiwan quinoa and millet growing.

Associate researcher Zhang Jizhong speaks on organic soil fertilization management techniques.

]]> 7251 2016-05-17 2016-05-26 08:19:12 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan began holding its “Farmer’s Academy—Novice Growth Management and Usage Class on Health-Promoting Plants” on May 16, and it will continue through June 3. This is an effort at enhancing cultivation techniques of health-promoting plants while helping to drive the sustained development of related industries. Classes are being held at the TTDARES regional education center.

While hosting the opening, Director Chen Hsin-yen of the TTDARES stated that classes on the cultivation of health-promoting plants are a major item at the TTDARES. This three-week course will help students increase competitiveness by learning how to be more effective in the aspects of cultivation management, environmental safety, the processing of harvested plants, management, and marketing. Chen reminded attendees that when health foods are about to go onto the market, they are confronted with regulations, so growers must be careful in how they deal with their products. Besides first investigating whether a plant is permitted to be sold as an edible item, regulations regarding health food product management must also be thoroughly understood. This is especially true for plants that have been turned into products: before having been legally certified, products may only be sold as common foods and must not be advertised as being beneficial to health.

Group photo of Director Chen and the students.　Director Chen hosts the opening and encourages students to communicate with and learn from the lecturers.

]]> 7228 2016-05-09 2016-05-09 08:52:32 In an effort to promote sustainable operation and development for the agricultural industry in indigenous villages, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Millet Cultivation Management and Multi-Application Demonstration Event on the morning of May 5 at Duoliang Village. About 70 growers attended.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the amount of land devoted to growing millet has been increasing in recent years, and as a result, problems with cultivation management and disease/pest-control have surfaced. This event was held to instruct growers on correct methods of prevention and to establish proper cultivation techniques for the sake of promoting sustainable development.

First, assistant researcher Huang Zi-yun from the TTDARES grain lab introduced a few key points regarding cultivation management for millet. Then, assistant researcher Lin Jun-qi discussed disease/pest-control techniques. Finally, associate researcher Wu Jingjing introduced recipes that use millet as the main ingredient, showing the diversity of dishes that can be made with millet.

The growers who attended took note of and asked questions about millet cultivation techniques, disease/pest-control, and its diverse uses. TTDARES staff answered each question thoroughly, leaving attendees quite satisfied with the event.

Director Chen welcomes the attendees and relates the objectives of the event.　An assistant researcher explains disease/pest-control techniques.　An associate researcher talks about the many uses of millet.

Foods made with millet.

]]> 7222 2016-05-03 2016-05-03 17:15:36 So as to reduce fruit damage and profit losses caused by Formosan macaques in way that is ecologically friendly, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan has developed a weapon that neither harms wild animals nor negatively impacts the environment—a mesh tree cover, which basically serves as full-body armor for trees. This technology was developed after studies were done on macaque behavior and habits, and it has proven to prevent the serious damage caused by macaques. The tree cover protects tree fruit well, and it only takes two people to easily put the covers in place. Here is how it works: 1) For the first year, only trees along the edge of the orchard where macaques enter need to be covered. 2) During the second year, if the macaques seem to not be dismayed by the covers, gradually add covers to trees beginning from the edges toward the center of the orchard. 3) During and after the third year, when the macaques become familiar with the covers again and go further into the orchard, be sure to cover all trees that produce the most and best fruit. This method has the following five features/merits: a) The covers are easily fastened in place, durable, and safe; b) they work well at keeping macaques and other invaders out; c) by using the gradual, year-by-year method of introducing the covers to the orchard, the annual costs are low and the return on investment is good; d) the covers protect the trees and fruit in a number of ways; and e) there are no negative effects on the trees, fruit, or environment. These covers reduce grower losses caused by macaques and also have a number of other benefits, currently making them one of the most feasible and best forms of macaque prevention in Taiwan. However, since macaques are clever, observant, and quick to learn, the best way to control them is through a diversity of means. Thus, a combination of obstruction, deterrence, and even hunting/catching must be considered while taking season, geography, and observed habits into consideration.

Mesh tree covers do not harm wild animals or the ecology.　Mesh tree covers do not harm wild animals or the ecology.　How Formosan macaques react to mesh tree covers (images taken via sensor-activated infrared cameras). ～ Macaques are able to loiter in orchards and eat at their leisure when mesh tree covers are not in use.

How Formosan macaques react to mesh tree covers (images taken via sensor-activated infrared cameras). ～ Just after the covers are first placed, macaques are too scared to approach the orchard. Once they become more familiar with the covers, they again begin to steal from uncovered trees, but they wait to eat until they have run away to their safe haven of the forest.　Once the macaques are no longer afraid of the covers, a few will try to get at fruit inside the covers. They are only able to get at fruit hanging low and right next to the cover (images taken via sensor-activated infrared cameras), and they leave small holes in the covers as a result of biting. Thus, they are unable to severely damage the covers or get inside, in turn protecting the fruit well.　Once the macaques are no longer afraid of the covers, a few will try to get at fruit inside the covers. They are only able to get at fruit hanging low and right next to the cover (images taken via sensor-activated infrared cameras), and they leave small holes in the covers as a result of biting. Thus, they are unable to severely damage the covers or get inside, in turn protecting the fruit well.

During the first year. only trees located at the edges of the orchard, where monkeys enter, are covered. This offers a high degree of damage prevention.　Tree mesh covers being used on orange trees such as the one on the left offer significant protection, maintaining a high level of yield and fruit quality. In contrast, all of the fruit on the uncovered tree to the right has been damaged.

]]> 7215 2016-04-28 2016-04-28 11:29:47 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the 2016 Lohas Herb Festival on April 23 (Sat.) at the TTDARES grounds in Fengli. The event was full of fun and educational activities including an exhibition of the achievements of the TTDARES, demonstrations on growing 46 different kinds of herbs, a 100-meter Taiwan quinoa footpath, a drawing activity, a seminar on herbs and health, a DIY class on making herbal essence oil massage balls, a DIY class on making eco-friendly cleaning agents from lemongrass, an on-site explanation on how to grow herbs, and gifts of potted herbs. All who went had a great time!

Guided by instructors, people had fun making herbal essence oil massage balls and eco-friendly cleaning agents from lemongrass. For the drawing activity, over 100 kids found places, such as in the field of garden cosmos or the herb garden area, to set up their materials and draw what they saw, turning the reality in front of them into beautiful works of art. In addition, TTDARES researchers gave detailed, on-site explanations on how to grow herbs, helping people get a better idea of how to properly take care of their herb gardens. In all, a total of 1,058 people attended the event, and all of them said they had fun and learned a lot.

The TTDARES stated that those interested in growing herbs and learning techniques on extracting essence oils may contact grain lab assistant researcher Chen Zhenyi for help and information.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen opens the event, welcoming all.　Volunteers from Taitung’s numerous Farmers Associations help with the DIY class for making eco-friendly cleaning agents from lemongrass.　DIY class on making herbal essence oil massage balls.

Kids drawing pictures in the herb garden area.　46 types of herbs are grown at the TTDARES.　A golden field of garden cosmos at the TTDARES.

]]> 7193 2016-04-13 2016-04-13 10:59:57 In an effort to promote the use of herbs in the tourism and recreation industries, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) has set April 23 (Sat.) as the date for the 2016 Lohas Herb Festival, which will be held at the TTDARES grounds in Fengli. Registration for the event is already open! The event will include demonstrations on growing 46 different kinds of herbs, a Taiwan quinoa footpath, a drawing activity, a DIY class on making herbal essence oil massage balls, a DIY class for making eco-friendly cleaning agents from lemongrass, an on-site explanation on how to grow herbs in the field, and gifts of potted herbs. When you come, enjoy the dazzling field of garden cosmos where the aroma of herbs fills the atmosphere to relieve you of your stress and other negative emotions. Such a fun-filled event is sure to please the whole family!

Based on similar events of the past, numerous people are expected to attend. So, to encourage people to sign up and check in early, the first 600 people who register will receive a free voucher for the essence oil massage ball class and the eco-friendly cleaning agent class.

Children who participate in the drawing activity will receive a commemorative gift upon finishing their drawing and handing it in to the Drawing Activity Check-in Counter where it will be stamped and returned to take home. All who love to draw are welcome! For more information on registration, please visit the TTDARES website to download the necessary documents, fill them out, and fax them to (089) 353-336.

TTDARES address (Fengli): No. 21, Lane 427, Chengdu South Rd., Taitung City (near the 166.6 k mark on Highway 11). We can’t wait to see you on April 23!

Flowering French lavender.　Rosemary is rich in high-quality oil.　The beauty of verdant sage.

The field of garden cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) at the TTDARES grounds will relax and refresh you!

]]> 7182 2016-04-08 2016-04-08 09:15:35 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held its “Smart Fertilization and Disease/Pest Control for Rice Lecture and Forum” on March 31 in the second floor classroom of the Chishang Township Farmer’s Association Supermarket to enhance healthy crop management and disease/pest control techniques. During production, disease and pests not only affect quality, they also decrease yield. When carrying out prevention, besides the use of chemical agents, organic measures that correspond to the time of production and climate should also be considered. By taking immediate measures to prevent damage when it is likely to occur, growers may achieve twice the benefits with half the work. With the approach of Tomb Sweeping Day, traditional Chinese adages come to mind that speak of the seasonal drizzly rain and the significant and unstable fluctuation between hot and cold weather. It is at this time that disease is very likely to strike rice crops. Fertilization and disease control are closely linked; nitrogen fertilizer is especially known to influence rice blast. The event focused on fertilization and disease/pest management so as to provide growers with a complete understanding of these topics.

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu hosts Smart Fertilization and Disease/Pest Control for Rice Lecture and Forum.　A grower asks about control of channeled apple snails (Pomacea canaliculata) and management of damage caused by birds.　Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu answers growers’ questions on agrochemical use, control of channeled apple snails, and management of damage caused by birds.

An assistant researcher diagnoses cold damage symptoms for a grower and explains what preventative measures may be taken.

]]> 7131 2016-03-11 2016-03-03 13:37:48 Sugar apples are the mainstay of fruit production in Taitung. 12,392 metric tonnes were shipped from Taitung for sale during 2015 for an output value of NTD 890 million. This was the third consecutive year that sugar apples were the local fruit to earn the most in sales outside of Taiwan.

So as to ensure growers will follow regulations regarding the use of agrochemicals to prevent disease and pest damage, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) plans to augment its publicity of safe agrochemical use in the major areas of sugar apple production this season. Eight lectures and two outstanding orchard conferences are to be held to remind growers of regulations so as to ensure fruit safety. During an agrochemical residue inspection on sugar apples in January of 2016, all those inspected in Taitung passed, showing that while growers are producing high-quality fruit, they are also maintaining fruit safety to win the confidence of consumers. The TTDARES will continue to provide technique consultation and service to growers in a joint effort to further the local sugar apple industry.

The TTDARES holds its Outstanding Atemoya Orchard Management Conference with active participation by growers.　Distribution centers are where atemoyas (a variety of sugar apple) are inspected for quality and separated into grades.

]]> 7128 2016-03-03 2016-03-01 09:14:58 In an effort to promote healthy management of atemoya orchards in Taitung, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the Outstanding Atemoya Orchard Management Conference on February 17. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the winner of the recent Outstanding Atemoya Orchard Management Contest was invited to the event to share on management methods so that atemoya production techniques and healthy management concepts may be promoted and adopted by more growers. Chen also expressed hopes that all growers would work to produce high-quality, safe fruit for the benefit of consumers, growers, and environmental sustainability.

Miss Peng Qian-hui, the grower who won the recent Outstanding Atemoya Orchard Management Contest, shared about her experience and gave practical on-site demonstrations for all to learn from. Peng stated that she has been growing produce for 22 years. She places special importance on orchard cleanliness with feminine care, being very cautious in her use of agrochemicals. As a result, her orchard has an extremely pleasant look that has won her awards year after year.

TTDARES Director Chen hosts Outstanding Atemoya Orchard Management Conference.　Many growers attended the event.

Growers learning on-site.

]]> 7063 2016-02-02 2016-01-29 14:44:04 Atemoyas are one of Taiwan’s major export crops. In an effort to promote healthy management of orchards and share the achievements of hard-working growers with the public at large, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan recently held the 2016 Outstanding Atemoya Orchard Contest. After evaluation of orchards and fruit quality, the winners have been announced! Liu Yan-ru once again won first place with her excellent orchard management and self-conducted inspections. Secretary Hsieh Jinn-lai of the TTDARES stated that the purpose of the contest is to allow more of the public to become familiar with this high-quality, locally-grown fruit. Another aim is to spread healthy management concepts among growers, boosting the overall quality of Taitung atemoya production in a win-win-win for consumers, growers, and the environment.

Atemoyas have a white, slightly al dente pulp that is sweet with a hint of sour, and being packed with vitamin C and dietary fiber makes them them both tasty and healthy! The TTDARES wishes to remind everyone that the best atemoyas are produced between December and April, so now is the time!

Evaluation of an orchard during the 2016 Outstanding Atemoya Orchard Contest.　Group photo with winners and Secretary Hsieh Jinn-lai.　Liu Yan-ru once again took first place!

First-place winner Liu Yan-ru’s orchard.

]]> 7042 2016-01-12 2016-01-12 16:59:03 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the “Organic Agriculture Promotional Lecture” on January 8, 2016 at the Yanping Township Administration Office in order to drive the development of organic farming in Taitung. The event was hosted by TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen. Organic fertilization management, smart fertilization, and techniques on organic disease and pest control were discussed at the lecture. Furthermore, growers were informed that the TTDARES provides free soil, plant body and irrigation water analysis, and diagnostic services for disease and pest control. In this way, growers will be aided in overcoming the potential difficulties of organic farming and will be more willing to turn to this type of farming.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts “Organic Agriculture Promotional Lecture”.　An assistant researcher discusses techniques on organic disease and pest control.　A section chief discusses administrative measures in Taitung for the transformation toward organic farming.

Discussion with growers.

]]> 7014 2015-12-28 2015-12-25 12:54:08 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) held the “All-in-One Millet Thresher-Huller Demonstration Event” on the afternoon of December 24 at the Liqiu Community Activity Center in Jinfeng Township. The highlight of the machine is that it uses the power of the threshing machine to drive a mechanical sifter. Thus, time is saved as manual labor is no longer required for sifting after threshing has taken place. Then, a cyclone separator is used to send the millet into a hulling machine which removes the hulls and other small extraneous matter. After being hulled and winnowed multiple times, the grains then go into a sorter where rocks and other impurities are sifted out. The final result is pure, high-quality millet. Compared with the methods of the past that required manual labor and work to be separated into multiple phases, this machine raises efficiency by 3.5-fold. This demonstration event will not only lead to increased productivity and profit for growers, but will also create appeal to young growers to return to their homes and further develop the industry in their villages.

Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the All-in-One Millet Thresher-Huller Demonstration Event.　An assistant researcher explains millet cultivation and management techniques.　An assistant researcher explains the All-in-One Millet Thresher-Huller.

All-in-One Millet Thresher-Huller in action.　Growers enthusiastically take part in the event.

]]> 7009 2015-12-24 2015-12-23 12:25:04 In an effort to encourage safe, high-quality sugar apple production, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the 2015 Outstanding Sugar Apple Orchard Contest from December 14 to 18. 50 growers registered for the event, and after two stages of evaluation that assessed fruit quality and orchard quality, the winners have been announced! Hong Wen-xian once again won first place, followed by two young growers, Li Jun-yi and Chen Zhi-wei, tying for second. Third place was won by Wang Zhong-li, Li Quan-zhang, and Sulin Baoxi. Furthermore, four growers received merit awards, and five others received honorable mention awards. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the evaluation did not only take exterior appearance of the fruit into consideration, but healthy management in the production process and ecological friendliness of orchards. The TTDARES plans to hold a demonstration event on managing high-quality orchards in the future so as to continue raising the quality of sugar apple production and further the industry’s development.

Evaluation of a contestant’s orchard.　Winners of the 2015 Outstanding Sugar Apple Orchard Contest　First-place winner, Hong Wen-xian.

Hong Wen-xian’s sugar apple orchard.

]]> 6978 2015-11-25 2015-11-25 14:21:26 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held its Farmer’s Academy—Growth Management Class on Health-Promoting Plants at the TTDARES learning center. The event began on November 16 and ended on November 20 at noon.

While hosting the event, TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that when developing edible products made from health-promoting plants, in addition to ensuring the products are made from ingredients posted as safe by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, producers must insist on continuing diligently toward maintaining product quality and maintaining consumer confidence in the safety of such foods. Later, Chen invited those present to return for the related Farmer’s Academy—Post-Training Conference and Lecture on December 4.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen presents certification of competency in coursework.　Students learn to distinguish different kinds of plants at the TTDARES health-promoting plant area.　Hands-on production of healthy tea.

Class photo.

]]> 6970 2015-11-18 2015-11-18 14:35:00 </body> </html>]]> 6957 2015-11-10 2015-11-10 16:35:23 In an effort to lessen damage done to fruit done by Formosan rock monkeys, which in turn leads to losses for farmers, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the “Monkey Control Demonstration Event” at the orchard of Qiu Shao-hua in the town of Chenggong on the morning of November 11. Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that damage to crops by the Formosan rock monkey has been a long-standing and extremely challenging problem for the whole of Taiwan, and fruit seems to fare the worst, causing immense losses for growers. In response, the TTDARES developed a mesh covering as well as a complete set of measures to prevent monkeys from damaging fruit. After three years of experimentation in orchards all around Taiwan, the results have been very promising, and the techniques were offered to any who wish to try such methods. At the beginning of the event, assistant researcher Chen Yi-jun described the behavior of Formosan rock monkeys and how they go about damaging fruit, informing growers on the most important aspects of how to deal with these pests. Chen then continued to describe the design, use, and handling of the mesh coverings as well as what is currently known about their effects. Chen then described the use of the mesh coverings and strategy applied to Qiu’s farm. Later, team leader Zhang Xu-ping of the Chenggong Furong Valencia Orange Production and Marketing Team and Qiu shared their experiences regarding use of the mesh coverings. Both were quite happy to promote the new technology as, according to them, it is easy to use and has produced great results.

Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts the event.　Assistant researcher Chen Yi-jun describes techniques and strategies for keeping monkeys away from trees.　Grower Qiu Shao-hua shares about his experience using techniques and mesh coverings developed by the TTDARES.

Those present asked many questions about techniques on keeping monkeys away from trees.　Mesh coverings being used on navel orange trees.

]]> 6941 2015-11-02 2015-11-02 15:55:55 Nutritional value of Atemoya]]> 6943 2015-11-02 2015-11-02 17:18:07 Tips on Keeping and Eating Atemoyas
]]> 6918 2015-10-19 2015-10-19 13:45:59 In promoting the organic agriculture industry, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the “Organic Orchard Management Strategy Demonstration Conference” on October 12 at its orchard in the community of Binlang to share tips and practical methods with local growers. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that the orchard in Binlang began its transition toward becoming an organic orchard in 2010. Areas were sectioned off for research regarding techniques on the organic growing of fruit trees with certain characteristics. The transition was successfully made through appropriate environmental construction and various organic growing techniques. Organic growing is a complete system of growing which emphasizes changes in concepts and the use of new strategies. This conference was held to share all that the TTDARES has learned over the past few years about organic orchard management with the goal of enhancing growers’ concepts and techniques while increasing their willingness to make the transition to organic. Besides TTDARES assistant researcher Chen Yijun’s detailed sharing on the construction and operation of an environment suitable to organic growing, overall management strategies during the transition to organic growing, and organic orchard management models (after transition is complete), Chen also brought growers into the TTDARES orchard to see the trees for themselves and hear more in-depth information.

Director Chen hosting the conference.　An assistant researcher discusses organic growing management strategies.　Growers visit the TTDARES organic orchard in Binlang.

]]> 6890 2015-09-29 2015-09-29 10:18:41 In an effort to help local chrysanthemum growers produce safe products, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan held the “Safe Pesticide Use on Chrysanthemums and Smart Fertilization Lecture/Taiwan Agricultural Product QR code system Seminar” on September 23 at the Jianhe Sugar Apple Production and Marketing Team Goods Collection Center of the Taitung Regional Farmers’ Association. Chrysanthemum production and marketing team members from Zhiben and Beinan enthusiastically attended. Also present were representatives from the Agriculture and Food Agency, the Eastern Regional Branch of the Agriculture and Food Agency (and its subsidiary Taitung office), the Taitung substation of Tea Research and Extension Station, the Taitung County Government, the Taitung County Farmers’ Association (and local branches), and the tea drying industry. The seminar included information on the Taiwan Agricultural Production QR code System, an explanation on the procedures for this year’s chrysanthemum sampling and testing, cultivation management, fertilization management, and techniques for pest and disease control. The goal of such cooperation between growers and authorities in the industry is to promote the sustainable development of chrysanthemum production through safe, healthy management techniques of crops and the implementation of the Production QR code System.

TTDARES Director Chen hosts “Safe Pesticide Use on Chrysanthemums and Smart Fertilization Lecture/Taiwan Agricultural Product QR code system Seminar” with enthusiastic participation by growers.　A grower reads an informative pamphlet given out at the seminar.

]]> 6872 2015-09-09 2015-09-09 11:33:24 Recently, the weather has been dry and hot. Sugar apple trees are in the budding and small- to medium-sized fruit stages of the second growing season. During on-site monitoring, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, has discovered a trend of an increase in population densities of the chilli thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood) and the oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel) in the areas of Beinan Township, Taitung City, and Taimali Township. The TTDARES has asked growers to frequently check their orchards and take preventative measures when necessary so as to lessen damage to crops and overall losses. For information on measures and control agents, growers may refer to the Council of Agriculture’s Plant Protection Manual. For related questions, growers may call the TTDARES Plant Protection Lab (089-325-015) or any of the regional Plant Disease and Pest Diagnosis Service Stations (toll free at 0800-069-880).

The chilli thrips attacks unopened leaves, puncturing them and sucking out nutrients, causing the leaves to curl, wrinkle, deform, and partially darken.　A hanging sheet of yellow flypaper attracts and kills the chilli thrips. Monitoring the population density will provide valuable reference data regarding prevention timing.　The oriental fruit fly destroys Sugar apple by laying eggs on them.

A hanging canister of long-acting poisoned methyl eugenol attracts and kills male fruit flies.

]]> 6851 2015-08-24 2015-08-24 17:06:19 So as to help indigenous growers learn new agricultural techniques and information as well as guiding them on how to make use of their special cultural assets, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture cooperated with the Changbin Township Administration Office in holding the “Processing Technology Course for Indigenous People’s Special Crops” from August 18 to 20 on the second floor meeting room of the Changbin Township Administration Office.

At the event, TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu stated that the TTDARES has integrated the core technologies of “indigenous features”, “early bumper crop harvesting”, and “organic lifestyle” in a mutually complementary relationship with the Taitung agricultural environment. The TTDARES has gone into tribal villages and actively participated in planning out classes that are based on the industry of each so as to promote their development.

The content of this course included cultivation, product development and utilization of millet, pigeon peas, and Taiwan quinoa. It further included concepts on agricultural product processing, concepts on joint production/sales and collective transportation/marketing, management concepts on the cultivation of roselles, concepts on indigenous crop development along the South-Link Highway, management concepts on the cultivation of organic rice, exchanges of ideas, and a general discussion. The event helped increase participants’ practical knowledge as they learned from each other on how to better manage the village agricultural industry and develop their unique features.

TTDARES Deputy Director Chen Yu-chu and Changbin Township Mayor Pan Shu-fang co-host the opening.　Participants having class in the second floor meeting room of the Changbin Township Administrative Office.

]]> 6841 2015-08-14 2015-08-14 10:43:58 So as to sustain development of the custard apple industry in Taitung by ensuring safe, high-quality fruit, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture held a lecture and forum on the safe use of agrochemicals on August 12. It was hosted by TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen, and growers enthusiastically participated. During the forum, issues spoken on included agrochemical residue control for atemoyas, regulations and noteworthy facts related to agrochemical use, and the current state of atemoya exports. Growers were also encouraged to join the Taiwan Agriculture and Food Traceability System to increase self-management capability and boost competitiveness.

TTDARES Director Chen hosts Taitung region “Safe Agrochemical Use on Sugar Apples and Smart Fertilization Lecture and Forum”, imploring growers to maintain product safety by following agrochemical regulations.　Growers listen to instruction on agrochemical regulations and agrochemical residue.　The head of the Sugar Apple Production and Marketing Team affirms the Taiwan Agriculture and Food Traceability System and asks about registration procedures.

]]> 6808 2015-07-23 2015-07-23 10:55:13 On July 14, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture and the Taitung County Farmers Association co-held a three-day “Small Farm Community Creation and Production/Marketing Course”. The event ended as a success on the afternoon of July 16 with 35 young local farmers enthusiastically participating in the class.

The course was organized as a vivid, fun group exploration. Students learned to deal with conflicts and communicate their concepts. By learning how to make their groups cohesive and set goals together in pursuing challenges and advancement, they co-created their ideal future farms and were encouraged to come up with unique modes of cooperation. In their lectures, experienced farmers advised the students to establish modes of operation that sustainably integrate ecology, production, and lifestyle. They also encouraged students to seek assistance from agricultural promotion organizations. Lecturers shared about the use of food and agriculture activities as well as agrotourism events, linking people and the land through brilliant, enriching experiences. During the classes on food safety, food education, and traceable agricultural products (TAP) , lecturers suggested allowing consumers to see the importance farmers place on the value and special features of their crops. In this way, farmers can build closer relationships with consumers through sharing an appropriate amount of information. Finally, a promotion expert taught about how to sustain customer management in terms of getting a firm grasp on and proactively working toward maintaining relationships with customers.

After three days of exceptional classes and guidance, not only was the road opened for these young farmers to create their own brands, but by gathering them together and bringing them closer, they are more likely to work together in the future in producing and selling local, high-quality products. This is sure to help Taitung as a whole become known as an outstanding agricultural brand.

Through the fun group-oriented course, a team spirit was created which drove students to set goals in the pursuit of advancement.　By thinking about the unique qualities of each team member, the students created modes of cooperation for their future farms.　Chairperson Tu, an accomplished and outstanding grower, encouraged the students to orient themselves toward sustainable operations that integrate ecology, production, and lifestyle.

Young farmers created their own brands by practicing how to set up simple portal websites.

]]> 6793 2015-07-10 2015-07-10 12:32:38 In order to promote sustainable development and ensure product safety for the sugar apple industry in Taitung, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture held an agrochemical safety lecture and forum on July 7 in Luye Township. 60 people attended the event, including members of the Taitung office of the Agriculture and Food Agency, Taitung County Government, Luye Farmers Association, and Taitung County Crop Protection Industry Association. At the event, the TTDARES reminded farmers to follow regulations regarding agrochemical use to ensure the safety of their fruit. Reference materials were handed out on pest and disease prevention measures for sugar apples as well as pest and disease prevention with regards to exporting to Mainland China. The purpose was to get farmers familiar with current agrochemical regulations and encourage them follow such laws. They were also kindly reminded to watch Typhoon Linfa’s movement so as to prevent any losses from the impending storm.

Director Chen Hsin-yen of the TTDARES implores farmers to follow agrochemical use regulations at the “Safe Agrochemical Use on Sugar Apples Lecture and Forum”.　Farmers listen attentively to agrochemical use regulations and the topic of agrochemical residue.

]]> 6781 2015-07-06 2015-07-06 09:41:54 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture held its annual Agricultural and Industrial School Career Discovery Course and Agricultural Management Experience Program during June, offering a total of 24 hours of practical related coursework. The course ended on June 24 under the supervision of Farmers Association representatives and farmers who participated in the event.

During a speech at the end of the course, Director Chen Hsin-yen of the TTDARES stated that the purpose of holding such course was to help students in learning more about the agriculture sector early on as well as assisting them in planning out their future directions and goals, all the while hoping to encourage students to enter the agricultural industry. Chen added that more young people have been returning to Taitung in recent years to take up farming. Thus, to make sure the industry will maintain an influx of youthful energy, the TTDARES has made use of the summer break (which is also the time before young men must begin compulsory military service) to offer young people agriculture-related experiences, career exploration assistance, and on-the-job learning so as to make practical that which they have already learned academically while allowing them to get some real experience. This will in turn inject life into the agricultural industry and help with the sustainability of farming villages.

The TTDARES expressed hopes that students will use what they learned during the coursework in their future work, reminding students that if they ever encounter any problems, they may feel free to contact the TTDARES in addition to their teachers from school. For those interested in more details, please visit the Farmers’ Academy website at http://academy.coa.gov.tw.

TTDARES Director Chen (right) and Director Hong Rui-ting (left) of the National Taitung Junior College Horticulture Section present coursework completion certification to a student.　Group photo of participating students, speakers, farmers, and TTDARES staff.　Students picking tea leaves at the Jia Fang Organic Tea Farm.

Students analyzing harvested ginger quality at the Taitung Qing Liang Ecology Farm.

]]> 6746 2015-06-08 2015-06-05 16:22:02 On June 2, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture began its annual “Agricultural and Industrial School Career Discovery Course and Agricultural Management Experience Program”.

Director Chen Hsin-yen of the TTDARES stated that more young people have been returning to their homes to work in agriculture in recent years. As a result, the Council of Agriculture has planned out a special program this year to assist students and recent graduates (who have not yet begun their mandatory military service) from agricultural and industrial vocational schools/technical colleges in getting an understanding of the current state of agricultural development in Taiwan. The program offers agricultural management experiences, career discovery courses, and actual work on farms during summer (or up until graduates begin their military service) so as to make practical that which they have already learned academically. Through such activities as career discovery courses and on-site work, this program will inspire students’ interest in agriculture and allow them to get some hands-on experience. That way, they can get to know the agricultural sector early on and plan out their direction/goals before entering the industry. This training is sure to be a big help to the students, and it will also water young seeds for Taiwan’s agricultural industry on the whole.

Group photo of Director Chen and students at the start of the event.　Director Chen hosts the opening and encourages students to plan out their direction and goals as early as possible.

]]> 6734 2015-05-26 2015-05-26 09:03:36 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture held its annual Experimental Demonstration Field Evaluation on May 14 and 15. TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen led the event, which was an on-site evaluation of all the TTDARES specialized laboratories and experimental demonstration fields both on and off TTDARES premises. Those present included leaders from various agencies, research lab heads, and researchers. Evaluated areas on the premises included the flower greenhouse, agricultural machinery lab, and experimental fields for rice and vegetables. Evaluated areas off the premises included evaluations of the experimental research sites for organic millet growing and product value enhancement, Sclerospora graminicola (which causes downy mildew) prevention for millet, healthy fruit set and pest prevention management for sugar apples, nighttime energy-efficient lighting for atemoyas, organic disease resistance and good harvest management for rice, rice blast prevention, regional experiments for new millet varieties, and general management techniques for major rice diseases in the towns and townships of Taimali, Jinfeng, Daren, Chishang, Guanshan, Haiduan, Luye, and Beinan.

Director Chen expressed hopes that the researchers would continue to have fruitful results. Taitung is a great place as it is filled with indigenous cultures and the particular features of each. It’s a place that’s perfect for developing organic farming and special crops. Moreover, the sales volume of atemoyas to other regions has been breaking records every year. Thus, all experimental work should be directed at these items. With regards to research going on in each of the evaluated labs and experimental demonstration fields, those present offered suggestions on improvements, integration, and updating so as to enhance research quality and efficiency. In this way, an agricultural technology orientation that suits the regional industry can be implemented while furthering the exchange of experiences among workers.

Director Chen leads his colleagues in listening to a researcher speak on the selection of microorganisms that are beneficial to soil.　Evaluation of the fern propagation technology greenhouse.　The nighttime energy-efficiency lighting experiment for atemoyas was highly affirmed by growers.

Director Chen directs establishment of techniques for the organic rice ecology service system in Chishang.　Good results seen in a regional experimental field for millet (a special crop in Taitung).　Training and demonstration on creating beautiful dragon fruit orchards that are eco-friendly.

]]> 6689 2015-04-15 2015-04-15 15:08:43 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture cooperated with the Guanshan Town office from April 13 to 17 in holding a course called “Plantation and Crop Operation and Management Techniques”. Growers, including many of indigenous descent, enthusiastically attended the event.

Many people attended this event which was jointly hosted by TTDARES director Chen Hsin-yen and others present. The TTDARES worked with the Guanshan town office in planning out this “Plantation and Crop Operation and Management Techniques” class for education on the growing of rice, fruit trees, the tea industry, grains, and vegetables so as to help development of the local industry. The TTDARES holds farming technique seminars and courses every year at different times, going into indigenous villages while maintaining local agriculture as the theme. Such courses help growers in indigenous villages learn helpful skills. The TTDARES has also offered growers an “agricultural industry knowledge passport” since 2013 to encourage them to continue learning new techniques. During the event, Director Chen reminded attendees that if anyone had questions, they could ask at any time so as to receive immediate responses and assistance. For more information on such events, please visit the TTDARES website at http://www.ttdares.gov.tw.

Director Chen of the TTDARES jointly hosts the training with attendees.　Growers attending the 5-day training at the Guanshan Farmers Association.

]]> 6631 2015-03-05 2015-03-05 16:43:08 The new year has begun with the wonderful return of spring! In recognition of the farmers and Farmers Association staff that helped out with a variety of experiments and research last year, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture (TTDARES) held a 2015 Regional Excellent Farmers and Farmers Association Officials Award Ceremony and a 2015 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers Award Ceremony on the morning of March 2 in the second floor meeting room of the TTDARES regional education center. TTDARES staff and all others present were excited with the start of a new year and offered best wishes to each other.

Director Chen of the TTDARES started the event by thanking everyone for all the help they provided regarding various projects over the past year. Such assistance allowed for various agricultural experiments/research, lectures, trainings, and promotional events to be carried out smoothly.

In celebrating the beginning of this new year, Zhuang Zheng-xiong (who was named one of 2015 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers) and 11 farmers/Farmers Association staff members (who were recognized as offering outstanding assistance to the TTDARES with various experiments, research, and promotions during 2014) were invited to the event to receive plaques and medals as tokens of appreciation.

At the end of the event, besides once again expressing the most sincere gratitude and congratulations to the award recipients, Director Chen encouraged the TTDARES staff to continue their diligence with a positive attitude of service toward farmers while working hard on the research, development, and promotion of new plant varieties and new technology so as to accomplish a lot this year. He then wished everyone a wonderful and peaceful Year of the Goat.

Director Chen presents 2015 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers winner Zhuang Zheng-xiong with a congratulatory plaque.　Group photo of Director Chen, award winners, and all others present.

]]> 6611 2015-02-13 2015-02-13 14:19:03 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) nominated Zhuang Zheng-xiong of Beinan Township as the representative competitor from the Taitung region in the 2015 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers Honor competition. Subsequently, Zhuang indeed won a spot among the top ten. In all, there were 22 contestants, each hailing from elite levels of the agricultural, forestry, fishery, and animal husbandry industries. After competitions at the levels of town/township, city/county, and region, the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture (COA) formed a judging panel of experts to choose the top ten outstanding farmers and the top twelve model farmers. The results of the competition were posted by the COA on February 6.

Zhuang has actively promoted the atemoya industry in Taitung, and in concert with the government’s export policy, he has helped increase the amount of business each year. Zhuang is also the director of the Atemoya Growing Area in Taitung, holding “health” and “safety” as his philosophies of operation. He has furthered a comprehensive marketing system through the “Wan Shi Jia” brand, and by working with the different recreational agriculture industries in Chulu, he has created a new value for the atemoya industry. Zhuang’s achievements were viewed as quite unique and really stood out during the competition.

The Council of Agriculture will hold an award presentation ceremony as a way to commend the contributions put forth by these outstanding individuals in the field of agricultural technology innovation and sustainable rural development in Taiwan. Zhuang’s particular successes will serve as models for farmers young and old, driving the overall development of Taitung’s agriculture industry.

Zhuang Zheng-xiong (middle) has created a model for learning, leading the young farmers of the Meinong Sugar Apple Production and Marketing Class in co-creating a new value for atemoyas.　Zhuang shows COA Deputy Minister Chen Taitung’s system for atemoya collection and export.　Zhuang Zheng-xiong (middle right) takes a picture with Director Chen (middle left) and Deputy Director Chen (far left) of the TTDARES to celebrate being named one of the 2015 National Top Ten Outstanding Farmers.

]]> 6593 2015-02-05 2015-02-05 13:04:45 On the morning of January 30, Chairman Xie Qin-cheng of the Taiwan Agricultural Machinery and Biomechatronics Engineering Technology Development Association brought 50 people from the Quang Ninh Province Vietnam Fruit Tree and Aquaculture Knowledge/Technology Transfer/Service Training Class to visit the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES). While hosting the event, TTDARES Director Chen, Hsin-yen stated that due to the very unique geography of Taitung, the TTDARES began working on the development of machinery for use on sloped orchards long ago, and their achievements have proven very valuable. Afterwards, assistant researcher Huang Jeng-lung of the TTDARES Agricultural Machinery Lab gave a briefing on the fruits of years of agricultural machinery research while showing attendees some of the items that have been developed. The attendees were especially interested in the advanced research regarding the solar-powered insect trapper and electrostatic air-blast sprayer vehicle. Everyone gained a lot from the interaction, and the visitors greatly admired the work done and achievements attained by the TTDARES regarding local agricultural features and mechanization. They thanked the TTDARES for the wonderful visit and expressed hopes that more such opportunities for exchange would take place in the future.

Quang Ninh Province Fruit Tree and Aquaculture Knowledge/Technology Transfer/Service Training Class and TTDARES Group Photo.　Director Chen Hsin-yen welcomes all to the event.　Assistant researcher talks about agricultural machinery R&D achievements.

]]> 6537 2014-12-26 2014-12-26 13:24:33 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture (TTDARES) held its 2014 Year-End Press Conference and Agricultural R&D Achievements Exhibition on the morning of December 24. Nearly 20 different media representatives were present.

Of the many achievements made by the TTDARES this year, the following 11 major R&D items were selected to be included in the exhibition: “Local Variety Upland Rice R&D”, the newly developed Roselle variety “Taitung No. 5 Jili”, “Threeflower Tickclover Groundcover Production Technology”, “Millet Dumplings—New Snack Food Uses for Taitung Millet 8”, the newly developed Dianthus variety “Taitung No. 2 Summer Fragrance”, “Transport Vehicle with Attached Fertilizer Spreader R&D”, “Self-Propelled Small Seed Planter R&D”, “Use of Threeflower Tickclover Groundcover for Dragon Fruit Orchards”, “Techniques for Damage Control Caused by Monkeys”, “Multiple Application Technology for Organic Citrus Farming”, and “Sugar Apple Flower (Anther) Production Technology”. Also available for viewing were the latest releases of the technical journals A Look at Indigenous Farming Culture—Millet and a second printing of the Healthy Management of Atemoyas Manual.

Roselle tea, dried Murcott tangerine tea, and an innovative rice snack—Green Sprite Rice Dumplings—were available for sampling for attendees to taste firsthand delicious, healthy, locally-produced agricultural goods. Each achievement on exhibition received a considerable amount of media attention, and the TTDARES was affirmed for its diligence in R&D. The event was a good display of the hard work put in by everyone at the TTDARES toward local agricultural development. The TTDARES has taken on the leading role in local agricultural advancement so as to enhance development and competitiveness through the means of continual innovation and diligence.

Director Chen discusses the TTDARES’ achievements while hosting the event.　Newly developed variety “Taitung No. 5 Jili” as exhibited at the event.　Newly developed variety “Taitung No. 2 Fragrance Summer” as exhibited at the event.

Interaction between R&D personnel and media.

]]> 6524 2014-12-15 2014-12-15 15:28:32 In an effort to promote non-pesticide control techniques in the growing of chrysanthemums and to provide training on equipment changes related to chrysanthemum growing, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station of the Executive Yuan’s Council of Agriculture (TTDARES) held the “New Methods of Chrysanthemum Growing and Pest Management Demonstration” in Zhiben of Taitung City on the morning of December 3. Equipment used in the cultivation of betel leaves along with existing irrigation and windbreak equipment were combined with existing sprinkler and fertigation equipment so as to better control drainage in the fields. As for pest control, a demonstration was given on the use of non-pesticide agents such as castor oil, camphor oil, Bacillus subtilis, and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria. These measures will guarantee output while enhancing the quality of crops without the use of any agrochemicals. In comparison with traditional methods, these new methods save on labor, better guarantee output, and prevent the issue of pesticide residue. The TTDARES expects the new methods of cultivation introduced at the event to help growers produce substantial outputs of excellent-quality chrysanthemums.

TTDARES Director Chen Hsin-yen hosts “New Methods for Chrysanthemum Growing and Pest Management Demonstration”.　Assistant researcher shows growers how to use pest-control agent dilution conversion table.　Non-agrochemical pest-control agents were on display, and instructions were given on proper use.

Assistant researcher explains the effects of non-agrochemical pest-control for chrysanthemums.　Farmers share their thoughts on the event.

]]> 6525 2014-12-15 2014-12-15 15:39:55 It’s time for the annual roselle harvest! In Taiwan, roselles are grown mainly in the east, with Taimali and Jinfeng Townships as the major areas of production. Roselles are a very important specialty crop for Taitung. Sowing usually takes place in spring, flowering in autumn, and harvesting in late autumn and winter. Even though the Chinese term for “roselle” includes the word “flower”, the flower is by no means the usable part of the plant. In fact, the edible part is the plump calyx that remains after the flower has wilted and fallen. Each year during harvest time, the calyces look like bunches of rubies gleaming in the sun, attracting passing tourists to stop and enjoy their beauty. But these gems are not just beautiful in appearance; the calyx is full of nutritional value and is a great anti-oxidant, making it quite a healthy product. Once the calyces are harvested, they can be made into preserves and jam, or they can be steeped into a pleasant tea. Moreover, they can be used in the cooking of various dishes. Thus, they possess the potential of becoming the most valuable specialty agricultural product on the market this season!

We are currently in the midst of the harvest season of these nutrition-packed roselles. This year’s crop output and quality are great, so now is the time to enjoy them! If you’re interested in doing something to promote your health and qi, come to the Taitung County Farmers’ Association, Taitung City Farmers’ Markets, the Taimali Farmers’ Market, or other such channels to directly make inquiries and place orders.

These brilliant red roselle calyces have been hailed as the “rubies of Taitung”.　The fields of Taitung become breathtaking each year during the autumn/winter roselle harvest, attracting passing tourists to stop and enjoy their beauty.

]]> 6466 2014-11-07 2014-11-07 17:17:54 The Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, and the Daren Township Office will cooperate in putting on three days of class called “Management of Special Crops for Indigenous People” on November 4-6 at the Tuban Village Office in Daren Township. This year, the TTDARES has held “Indigenous Agricultural Action Classes” in Haiduan, Chishang and Jinfeng Townships. The main objectives of such classes are to expand the achievements brought about through experimental research as well as demonstrate promotional techniques. Based on local agricultural features and via on-site training, we are able to adjust the classes to any needs we may encounter. We offer basic agricultural knowledge and hands-on training in the field to improve crop management concepts of indigenous growers and push the development of local agricultural features.

The TTDARES stated that for this class in Tuban Village, the specific goal is to improve millet, roselle, and mushroom crop management techniques of indigenous growers. Moreover, hands-on training in the field will put knowledge acquired through research into active use (while sharing it with as many indigenous growers as possible) so as to promote the development of special features of the agriculture industry in tribal areas.

Director, Chen, Hsin-Yen and Mayor, Wang, Guang-Qing co-presided the opening ceremony.　The group photo of this class’s participatants.

]]> 6445 2014-10-30 2014-10-30 11:28:00 Due to outstanding achievements in research related to agrometeorology and crop growth in recent years, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station(TTDARES) of the Council of Agriculture of the Executive Yuanwon the 2014 Group Academic Award from the Chinese Society of Agrometeorology. Branch Director Lu Po-song represented the TTDARES in going to the annual event held by the society to receive the award.

Director Chen Hsin-yen stated that as head of the TTDARES, he felt extremely honored to receive this award. He thanked everyone at the TTDARES for their long, hard work that has made recent achievements possible. The aspectsin which the TTDARES has recently carried out research with regards to agrometeorlolgy include:

  1. The successful breeding of 5 new drought-tolerant crops and 2 new heat-tolerant crops.
  2. 3 patents with regards to energy efficiency.
  3. Technology transfer and variety authorization to 17 companies.
  4. The creation of a) 3 types of technology for the prevention of crop damage from natural disasters as well as post-natural disaster remediation technology, b) 4 types of technology for energy-efficient cultivation, and c) 1 type of technology for the adjustment of the sugar apple photoperiod so as to lengthen the harvest season.
  5. Having charge over monitoring the occurrence, growth, and decline of disease and pest problems as well as information on the climate. We instituted a large-scale cooperative control of the Oriental fruit fly whichresulted in a 98% population density decline, significantly decreasing the percentage of fruit damage.
  6. The printing of 11 special technology publications and technology reports. The presentation of 25 journal articles, 20 seminar articles, and over 60 technology reports and other such articles.

Branch Director Lu Po-song (right) represents the TTDARES in receiving the Excellent Group Academic Award from Chairman Chang Chih-sheng of the Chinese Society of Agrometeorology.

]]> 6426 2014-10-09 2014-10-09 13:48:24 Effectively lessening the amount of labor associated with fertilizing fruit crops, the Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TTDARES) demonstrated the use of its recently developed transportation vehicle mounted with a fertilizer spreader. On the morning of October 2 in a sugar apple orchard of Taimali, the Transport Vehicle with Fertilizer Spreader Demonstration and Forum was held. The event demonstrated effective fertilizer spreading techniques and use of the transport vehicle with a mounted fertilizer spreader recently developed by the TTDARES. With this device, the fertilizer is spread via airflow. The structure is simple and very seldom has any mechanical problems. It works well with existing machinery, helping save on costs and increasing the overall use of machinery for growing. The TTDARES hopes this demonstration event will help growers produce a steady stream of high-quality output while increasing revenue.

Director, HSIN-YEN Chen presided ” Transport Vehicle with Fertilizer Spreader Demonstration.　The work situation of transport vehicle with a mounted fertilizer spreader.　An enthusiastic response from farmers to participate the demonstration.

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