In order to protect the declining fish stocks in Taiwan's northern sea, the government is planning to establish a national marine park encompassing the islands of Pengjia, Mianhua, and Huaping. However, some fishermen worry that the proposed development will limit their catches and affect their lives.

Three islets are isolated, off the northern coast of Taiwan.

Commonly known as the Three Northern Islands, the Pengjia Islet, Mianhua Island and Huaping Islet are about 40 to 50 kilometers away from the main island.

Despite the relatively higher latitude, about 40% of the area is covered by coral reefs.

As the zone is an upwelling region, rich fishery resources are made available, making the area an important fish harvest site in Northern Taiwan.

Although the region is blessed with natural resources, overharvesting over the past few years and the illegal fishing from some Mainland Chinese fishing boats have caused declines in wild fish populations.

Given the situations, Marine National Park Headquarters plans to establish a Marine National Park for the three Northern Islands by the end of this year, which scholars believe is a necessary measure.

However, some fishermen worry the plan would pose a lot of limitations on their livelihood.

In response to that, scholars believe the fishermen should change the way they think, because once the sea area is well-preserved, more and more fish will be showing up.

Therefore, the efforts to protect the environment lead to a win-win situation for all.