Can Tho releases 100,000 fish into the wild
The Can Tho Department of Agriculture and Environment has released 100,000 fish of various species into the wild as part of efforts to replenish and restore the city’s aquatic resources.
This annual activity, organized by the department, aims to raise public awareness and promote sustainable fisheries. The species released this year include loach, giant barb, snakehead, carp, catfish, and others.
When the initiative was first launched in 2013, it was limited to just two districts, with a total of around 500 kilograms of fingerlings released. Today, all nine districts and towns in the city actively participate, with the total quantity of released fish reaching approximately 10 tons per year.
In 2024, Can Tho’s total aquaculture area reached about 9,300 hectares, producing over 260,000 tons of farmed products. Meanwhile, wild-catch fisheries contributed more than 8,600 tons, underscoring the sector’s significant role in the city’s socioeconomic development.
However, according to Nguyen Tan Nhon, Deputy Director of the department, several factors such as illegal fishing, the use of banned gear, climate change, saltwater intrusion, and pollution have contributed to the gradual depletion of natural aquatic resources. As a result, restoring and conserving these resources is considered crucial.
In addition to fish release programs, Can Tho’s fisheries sector also prioritizes public education on aquatic resource protection. The department frequently collaborates with enforcement agencies to step up patrols, detect violations early, and strictly deal with illegal fishing practices and environmental offenses.
Vietnam’s Fisheries Development Strategy to 2030, with a vision to 2050, underscores the importance of fish release and aquatic resource replenishment as a nationwide, ongoing, and community-driven effort.
VFM
