The Conference for Meritorious Forestry and Nature Conservation, known as the “Green Oscars”, was held on November 23 (2024) to commend those who have made outstanding contributions to forest resources maintenance and natural ecological conservation. At the conference, Assistant Professor Hsin-Ju Wu of the NPUST Department of Forestry was awarded for her outstanding nature conservation work which promotes local cooperation for the sustainable utilization of mountain forest resources and the revitalization of traditional culture.
Assistant Professor Hsin-Ju Wu has been assisting the Pingtung Branch of the (MOA) Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency since 2018 with work being done in Laiyi Township, Pingtung County and Namasia District, Kaohsiung City. Based on local customs and with respect for the traditional culture of local tribes, Wu and her partners established a township-wide traditional hunting culture association that is dedicated to resolving conflicts related to wild animals and human activity in Taiwan. She has also been using her professional knowledge to help the country create a hunting management system for effective governance and sustainability. Wu currently has the largest long-term wildlife monitoring and hunting data set in Taiwan. With cooperation from indigenous villages, Wu is working to improve wildlife habitats, patrol forests, promote friendly traps, and collect wild boar samples to help the government prevent foot-and-mouth disease and African swine fever.
Assistant Professor Wu’s master’s and doctoral studies focused on wild boar biology and ecological conservation. After graduation, she worked as a professional mountain guide for several years, which gave her a unique perspective and understanding of wildlife conservation and community development. Her efforts are not only enhancing the cultural identity of local communities, but are also making important contributions to ecological conservation in Taiwan. The award is well deserved and expectations are that she will continue to see significant achievements in the future.
