The Past,Nowadays,and Future of Tsao-Kung Irrigation System

• Main Authors: Po-hsin Liao, 廖柏欣
• Other Authors: none
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2012
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/17712269642234224021

碩士 === 國立臺南大學 === 台灣文化研究所碩士班 === 100 === To study the historical transformation and development of Tsao-Kung Irrigation System, the researcher first assures the motivation and goal of the study, and then decides the research scope. Through literature reviews, the researcher reviews the historical background and context of Tsao-Kung Irrigation System and clarifies the research concepts. In order to know the development and qualities of the study target, three methods are used: (1) the gathering and study of the related materials (2) the interpretations and analyses of the maps (3) field investigations and the interviews of the concerned organizations. Tsao-Kung Irrigation System is the largest irrigation system in Feng Shan Plain. It was promoted by Tsao Chin, the Feng Shan County Magistrate, and built in 1837. In 1842, the new Tsao-Kung Irrigation System was built. In the end, there are ninety branches in total, and can cover as much as 4582.5 jia of land. After the construction, it provides a constant water supply and helps the development of the Feng Shan Plain. Originally, Tsao-Kung Irrigation System was managed by private organization. However, during the Japanese ruled period, it was taken over by the Japanese government. They set up the irrigation system and made it the national property. Also because of the development of the city and the harbor, the readjustment of the farmland, and the construction of the sugar refinery, Tsao-Kung Irrigation System faced a series of changes, such as the construction of the new canals, the change of the routes, and the disappearance of the old ones. After the War, Tsao-Kung Irrigation System was taken over by Kaohsiung Farm Irrigation Association. Due to the development of the city, the coverage of the system reduced from 13,000 hectares to less than 6,000 hectares. Also on account of the constriction of the streets, the canals gradually disappear or go underground. However, Tsao-Kung Irrigation System still keeps its value. It has become the waterway that provides multiple functions, such as irrigation, drainage, and flood prevention. This study attempts to elaborate the historical context of Tsao-Kung Irrigation System. Through the analyses of all the factors that influenced its development, the study further discusses its value at the present time, hoping to find a better development for its future.