New way to fish

By GABRIEL LAHOC

THREE University of Natural Resources and Environment students have suggested better fishing methods after two months of extensive studies on commercial fishing activities in Huon Gulf, Morobe.

They were engaged by the non-governmental organisation Bris Kanda to conduct the study.

Herman Morris, Sharon Gesengsu and Raiko Esiare are third year fisheries science students at the university. 

They spent two months with locals in Buakap and Puseka village in Wampar studying inshore fish aggregating devices (FADs), community-based management and inshore fisheries.

They presented their findings in a small ceremony last Tuesday at Puseka near the Markham bridge.

Locals were happy to be told of new skills and ideas to change their skills in commercial fishing.

Morris said the in-shore fish aggregate device was an artificial breeding and nesting method. It is a good production and supply point for bait fish used in inshore fishing. It also improves migration and the fishermen’s commercial potential.

The device has already proved to increase fish stock. And when the stocks improve, the average time spent on fishing by a fisherman is decreased to about an hour.

Morris said it would improve living standards in the local community. 

Gesengsu said the community-based management system shows how best locals can use natural resources.

John Ben, Bris Kanda’s fisheries officer, thanked the trio for their findings. He said it was an important monitoring and evaluation exercise for the organisation under its Japanese Funds for Poverty Reduction programmes.

The students’ findings have been recognised by the district and Morobe fisheries authorities.