CAPE Team assess Fish Farm in Naval

The DOST 8 Regional CAPE Team and the Samar State University aquaculture experts group conducted assessment of a Fish Farm operated by retired Col. Arcadio Lelis in Brgy San Pablo, Naval, Biliran last March 31, 2009.

The consultancy engagement was in response to the beneficiary's request for technical assistance to assist him in improving the fish pond operation in an initial area of 3 hectares situated at Brgy. San Pablo which is about 5 kilometers from Naval town. "There had been operations in the area in the past but they are at small capacity despite the wide area which has potential for development," the soft-spoken retired Biliran Police Provincial commander said in native tongue.

"If the project would succeed, this vast area will be further developed by other investors," he added.

Col. Lelis informed the experts they have stocked the farm previously with prawn fries of PL21, but they have not recovered anything. On initial testing, the experts found out that the water is highly saline, which maybe one of the reasons for the mortality. The large pond has only one water entrance gate coming from the saltwater side and so a second gate for the fresh water is recommended.

Other results and recommendations from the assessing team will be crafted later and which would serve as guide for the beneficiary.

The consultancy team was led by Dr. Renato Diocton and his assistants: Mr. Raul Celmar, Mr. Danilo Mabonga, and Mr. Fernando De Guzman. Facilitating the activity was Ms. Mae Anne D. Reyes, Supervising SRS of DOST 8, Ms. Evelyn Tablante DOST-8 CAPE coordinator, Mr. Marcelino Nicer Sr, driver., and the DOST Biliran PSTD Mr Romeo L. Dignos.