Liyutan Reservoir (鯉魚潭水庫), located in the southeastern part of Sanyi Township, Miaoli County, in central Taiwan, is the largest reservoir in the county. It covers an area of 4.32 square kilometers in Sanyi, Zhulan, and Dahu townships, with a maximum depth of 300 meters and a height of 96 meters. The reservoir provides essential water resources for the public in Taichung City and Miaoli County, and irrigates 4,209 hectares of farmland.
Watch the following video of An Amazing Reservoir with a Zigzag Weir Spillway in Taiwan for more interesting images.
In addition to water supply, Liyutan Reservoir serves multiple purposes, including power generation, flood control, tourism, and irrigation. It plays a vital role in supporting the agricultural productivity of Miaoli County, known for its fertile farmlands and diverse local produce, making it a key asset for the development and sustainability of the region.
History of Liyutan Reservoir
Construction of Liyutan Reservoir began in July 1985 and was completed in November 1992. The reservoir was built to address the increasing demand for water resources in Miaoli County. The reservoir was designed to provide a stable water source for irrigation, industrial needs, and domestic consumption, significantly improving the region’s water security.
Since the reservoir’s completion, it has overflowed nearly every year, except for 2020, when it failed to reach full capacity. In 2013, the reservoir notably overflowed for almost two months beginning in mid-August, before the water level started to decline as the dry season set in.
By September 18, 2019, Liyutan Reservoir reached its full storage capacity of 114 million tons. However, starting in July 2020, the catchment area experienced less rainfall than expected. The situation worsened in 2021 when a severe drought caused the storage rate to plummet to just 0.9 percent on May 29, with the water level dropping to 245.6 meters — the lowest since the reservoir was opened.
Fortunately, several rounds of rainy season storms, along with southwest winds and typhoon rains, helped refill the reservoir. On July 27, 2021, after 678 days without reaching full capacity, the reservoir finally overflowed again. However, in 2024, the reservoir faced another significant drop in water levels due to poor spring rains, reaching its lowest point on April 5, with a storage rate of just 32.8 percent. By the end of April, the water level began to rise sharply, and continued rainfall in May and June allowed the reservoir to reach full capacity by mid-June, once again leading to overflow. The duration of this overflow will depend on future rainfall and river conditions.
Characteristics of Liyutan Reservoir
Liyutan Reservoir, an off-stream reservoir in Taiwan, is renowned for its unique engineering and ecological features. One of its most distinctive characteristics is the zigzag weir spillway, a design that sets it apart from other reservoirs in Taiwan. This zigzag spillway is not only visually striking, but also highly functional, as it increases the spillway’s surface area, enhancing its capacity to manage large volumes of water efficiently. This design minimizes the environmental impact by effectively controlling water flow, reducing the risk of erosion and flooding in surrounding areas.
Beyond its engineering marvels, Liyutan Reservoir plays a vital role in enhancing the local ecosystem. The reservoir supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, including abundant populations of fish and shrimp. The surrounding area is home to natural broad-leaved forests and secondary-growth woodlands, which contribute to the biodiversity of the region. This blend of innovative design and ecological stewardship makes Liyutan Reservoir a significant asset both for water management and environmental conservation in Taiwan.
The beauty of Liyutan Reservoir
When the zigzag spillway overflows, the scene transforms into a breathtaking spectacle resembling a cascading waterfall, drawing crowds of visitors to witness its beauty. Beyond its engineering marvel, Liyutan Reservoir is also a sanctuary of natural splendor. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and serene waters, the reservoir is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as hiking, biking, and bird watching while enjoying the peaceful escape the reservoir offers from the hustle and bustle of city life. The area around the reservoir is teeming with diverse wildlife, adding to its appeal as a tranquil retreat.
The serene and picturesque setting of the reservoir makes it a favorite spot for photographers, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when the light bathes the landscape in a golden glow. The reflection of the zigzag weir spillway on the still water creates a stunning, mirror-like image that perfectly captures the essence of Taiwan’s natural beauty.
More than just a reservoir, Miaoli’s Liyutan Reservoir embodies innovation, sustainability, and natural beauty. Its distinctive zigzag weir spillway is an engineering marvel, while the surrounding landscape provides a tranquil haven for those seeking to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re an engineer, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Liyutan Reservoir offers an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.
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