Bac Kan: Thriving with high-altitude sturgeon farming
In the misty peaks of Bac Kan, Trieu Hoang Phuong took a bold step, pioneering cold-water fish farming in Phieng Kham. After two years of persistence, his efforts have turned into a remarkable success.
Turning an idea into reality
Phieng Kham village, located in Yen Duong commune, Ba Be district, has long been known for its serene mountain life. The tranquility was broken when word spread about an outsider buying land to start fish farming. Such an endeavor seemed unusual to locals accustomed to traditional farming.
Phuong, however, saw potential in the cool, clear mountain streams flowing through the area. Acquiring over 2,000 square meters of land, he built three fish tanks to raise sturgeon and salmon. Yet, the beginning was fraught with challenges.
“Not long after stocking the tanks, the fish began dying. I didn’t know what was causing it. They floated weakly on the surface before perishing. That early failure taught me invaluable lessons,” Phuong recounted.
Learning and adapting
Undaunted, Phuong sought advice from experienced fish farmers and visited successful models elsewhere. These efforts helped him identify the issues and refine his farming techniques.
The results soon paid off. His fish began thriving, and he started earning a steady income. Phuong has since expanded his farm to five tanks, housing over 4,000 sturgeon and producing 5–7 tons of fish annually.
“Sturgeon grow quickly in summer, but warmer water increases the risk of disease. They’re highly sensitive and need consistently clean, cool water,” Phuong explained. He sells his sturgeon to Hanoi’s wholesale markets at prices ranging from 220,000 to 250,000 VND per kilogram, depending on the season.
Building a sustainable model
Phuong credits his success to diligent tank maintenance, precise feeding schedules, and adjusting food portions to minimize waste. Fish weighing over 3 kilograms are sold, prized for their firm, delicious meat. He has also diversified his business by welcoming visitors to experience fish farming firsthand, adding a tourism element to his operations.
Inspiring the community
Trieu Van Tai, head of Phieng Kham village, commended Phuong’s initiative, stating, “His model is well-suited to the local environment and offers new opportunities for economic development. It not only provides jobs but also motivates others to explore innovative paths.”
Phuong’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of determination and resourcefulness, paving the way for sustainable livelihoods in mountainous regions.
VFM
