The Hsu Tsuo Harbor Wetland in Taoyuan, which is listed as one of the national wetlands on the island, is facing a serious situation. After being first polluted by the surrounding developments, the recent Taoyuan Aviation City Project is posing another threat to the natural habitat of the endangered birds in Taiwan.

This piece of land is located on the Taoyuan Township coastline. From the Pusin River and three other rivers, it flows to the ocean creating this vast area.

It is called the Hsu Tsuo wetlands, and is home to many types of wetland birds, even an international class conservation species called the Spoonbilled Sandpiper.

In 2009, the Ministry of the Interior classified it as a national wetland.

However, this piece of valuable wetlands, has long been facing the threat of ecological catastrophe.

A lot of garbage on the ground, and improper development projects have led to deterioration.

There are also pressing crisis such as industrial pollution, causing a red tide that invades wetlands.

Improper sewage treatment at factories has invaded this wetland. Few even dare to use this river water for irrigation.

The Hsu Tsuo Harbor wetlands is still an issue as the opening of a connection between the West Coast Expressway and Taiwan Provincial Route 61 provides convenient transportation attracting people to rent land to build warehouses.

This will lead to fewer areas for birds to live. In recent years, the government's promotion of the Taoyuan Airport City Project, the desire to create jobs and spur development as well as a logistics park is also posing a challenge to this wetland.

These will be a test for local leaders who promise to protect the environment and promote economic development.