From 14-18 October, a group composed of nine fishery experts from China conducted a study visit to marine ranching sites in Jeju and Gunsan in RO Korea. The whole study visit was organized by the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency (FIRA) of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation (KOEM) and coordinated by the YSLME Phase II Project Management Office (PMO). The Chinese experts are from the Bureau of Fisheries and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) of PR China, National Fisheries Technology Extension Centre, Yantai University and Dalian Haiyunhui Technology company.
The purpose of the study visit was to facilitate cross-country learning and exchange of experiences in restocking of fish populations. It also targets to have a better understanding of the implementation progress of enhancing fish stocks through restocking and habitat improvement.
At the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency (Jeju Branch) during the first day, Dr. Jong-ryul KIM, Dr. Yonghyun JWA and Dr. Taegun OH from FIRA introduced marine ranching pilot development, marine reforestation and artificial reefs construction in RO Korea. They also visited the construction site for artificial reefs. The participants were able to see various types of artificial reefs, including metal and concrete which are tailored to the needs of different fish species. Participants also had a chance to examine underwater the growth of transplanted and released species in one demonstration site in Bomok Harbour.
Participants at the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency (FIRA) at the branch in Jeju.
Dr. Taegun OH introducing the artificial reefs made of metal, which is tailored to the needs of different fish species.
On the second day, the participants went to the fisheries resources enhancement center of the National Institute of Fisheries Science. Dr. Dae-jung KIM introduced the fish farming technology that NIFS has been using to foster and boost the growth of species, especially for bluefin tuna and yellowtail. Additionally, Dr. Kim also led the participants to observe their species-conservation plant designed in accordance with the habits and characteristics of the reproduction behaviors of different species.
Dr. Dae-jung KIM of NIFS introducing fish farming technology
Participants in front of a species-conservation plant
On the last day of the visit, the participants visited the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency branch in Gunsan. Dr. Sangh-ho BAEK presented the status of West Sea marine ranches in RO Korea, followed by a site visit of an artificial reef construction site near shoal. The participants were able to see various kinds of artificial reefs with different functions (for fish, shellfish, algae etc). They also visited a floating marine ranching facility for fishing purposes.
Participants at the West Sea artificial reef construction site
Participants at the fishing program site
The Chinese participants were impressed by the staged development and significant cost-effects of the marine ranching program in RO Korea.
