Is a national park the way to save Taiwan's endangered cypress forest?

Abstract

Two species of cypress (Formosa cypress and Taiwan cypress), endemic to the highlands of Taiwan, have been reduced to forest stands that represent barely one third of their original extent. These trees are similar in longevity, lumber quality, stature and majesty to the redwood trees of North America. Although logging halted in 1989, removal of dead standing trees and downed logs, as well as recreational pressures remain a threat to these cypresses. Environmental groups favor absolute protection via the establishment of a national park. However, indigenous peoples are distrustful of the national park solution, because they feel that they have been adversely affected by the establishment of parks elsewhere in Taiwan. The Government's Forestry Institute favors continued removal of dead trees and artificial reforestation, and cautions that national park status might only exacerbate recreational pressures and hence risk.