Dak Lak province is implementing a sustainable fisheries development strategy, linking exploitation with regeneration and ecosystem protection. Priority is given to demarcating protected areas for resources, strictly controlling fishing activities, eliminating destructive fishing gear, and promoting community participation in preserving marine ecosystems.

Exploitation linked to regeneration

A notable aspect of the provincial current implementation is encouraging fishermen to limit exploitation while re-establishing fishing order based on the biological laws of the resource. Accordingly, the province clearly identifies areas where fishing is prohibited for a limited period; these are the “core zones” of the ecosystem, where aquatic life concentrates for reproduction or lives in its juvenile stage.

Protected areas have been established with specific scales, creating a legal foundation for management. A prime example is the Hon Yen sea area in O Loan commune, covering over 1,107 hectares of sea surface; or the sea area of over 13,800 hectares in the former Dong Hoa town area has been included in the 2021-2030 aquatic resource protection plan.

The Youth Union members and youths in Hoa Hiep ward participating in releasing shrimp larvae to regenerate aquatic resources.

This zoning is not merely administrative, but based on the natural distribution characteristics of the species. It helps maintain uninterrupted regeneration cycles, which is a key factor in restoring the resource.

In particular, the province has tightened management of fishing methods and gear. Destructive methods such as using electric shocks, explosives, poisons; or fishing gear capable of causing total depletion are strictly prohibited.

Along with control, the release of shrimp larvae to replenish resources is maintained as a supplementary solution. Currently, the release of larvae is calculated according to the season as well as species suitable for the ecosystem. Recently, the Fisheries and Marine Affairs Sub-Department has organized the release of 1 million tiger shrimp larvae into the estuary area of Hoa Hiep ward. All of these shrimp larvae were contributed by aquaculture businesses and boat owners.

Working together to protect resources

To effectively protect aquatic resources, local authorities in coastal areas play a crucial role. They directly carry out all tasks, from disseminating regulations on prohibited fishing areas alongside prohibited fishing methods, to organizing implementation, monitoring, and mobilizing people to participate in resource regeneration activities, etc.

The Fisheries and Marine Affairs Sub-Department together with other functional forces releasing tiger shrimp larvae into the sea to regenerate resources

Comrade Nguyen Xuan Canh, the People’s Committee of Phu Yen ward Chairman said: “Identifying the protection of aquatic resources as a long-term task, the locality focuses on disseminating, raising awareness and self-discipline within the community, while also aiming to build community-based management models. When people directly participate in monitoring, they will be more responsible for the resources they exploit”.

At the provincial level, the Department of Agriculture and Environment continues to play a coordinating role, from policy development to inspection along with handling of violations. Inter-agency coordination among the police, natural resources and environment departments, together with local authorities has been strengthened to ensure the strict enforcement of regulations.

“From specific zoning and control of fishing practices to mobilizing community participation, Dak Lak province is gradually building responsible fisheries. When exploitation is placed in a harmonious relationship with regeneration, and when the government as well as people work together, aquatic resources are not only restored but also become a solid foundation for sustainable marine economic development”, Mr. Dao Quang Minh affirmed.

Translated by TRINH THUY