Sustainable fishery and protection of dolphins in the Mahakam Wetlands in Indonesia

Background

The Mahakam Wetlands on the island Borneo in Indonesia serve as habitat for numerous animal and plant species, among them the rare Irrawaddy Dolphin. There are only between 70 and 90 of these species left in the province of Muara Pahu in east Kalimantan. The animals are strongly threatened, particularly because of drift gillnets, electric fishing methods and the use of fish poison. The interest of many fishers in sustainable fishing methods is large, but nevertheless there is a lack of knowledge and equipment. Education and specific tools require financing in order to change the fishery methods sustainably.

Aim of this project is the protection of the biodiversity and the natural fish population in the Mahakam wetlands. The project shall reduce negative impacts on the region’s biodiversity and thus introduce non-polluting aquacultures with fish coops. This is contributing to the regeneration of the fish population and the protection of the Irrawaddy Dolphin.

Implementation

First, fishers of different fisher co-operations are visited and interviewed. Agreements with 36 selected fishermen were made in order to support non-polluting fishery methods. At the end of May 2009 the raising of fish in fish coops (2 x 2 x 1 m) was started. In the first phase, altogether over 30,000 breeding fish were introduced. Above all, the fish species cichlid and carp were used. An experienced fisherman, who is practicing aquaculture for 15 years, is carrying out important consultations to fishermen regarding breeding, fish health and feeding.  

Outlook

Apart from the regular monitoring every three month, a final report, as well as a presentation of the first fishermen group that has paid off its fish coops is provided. After the 3rd to 4th fish earning cycle, the women who are also part of the fish treatment process, will be involved in the monitoring procedure. Therefore, on the basis of the first fish earning, it must be ensured that earnings are stable and a regular fish supply is guaranteed. So far, cichlids and carps were not used for the production of fish crackers. This invention would bring a new product on the market and thus create new income possibilities.

This project is being financed by the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN) and the Federal Ministry for Environment, Nature Conservation and Reactor Safety (BMU) promoted in the context of the special stamp programme.

Further information about the Mahakam Wetlands are avaiable on our webpage.