After the construction of the Da River dam, Hoa Binh Reservoir became the largest artificial lake in Vietnam, stretching 230km from Hoa Binh province to Son La province. Located within Hoa Binh province, the reservoir spans the administrative boundaries of Hoa Binh city and four districts: Da Bac, Cao Phong, Tan Lac, and Mai Chau.


Annually, the Fisheries Sub-Department (under the Department of Agriculture and Environment) collaborates with various agencies and enterprises to release tonnes of fish fry into Hoa Binh Reservoir to regenerate aquatic resources.

With its vast surface area and a capacity of over 9 billion cubic metres, Hoa Binh Reservoir is considered a valuable treasure trove of aquatic life and fisheries resources. According to research, the reservoir is home to 123 species from 79 genera and 19 families, including many rare, economically valuable species with scientific research significance. The diverse and abundant aquatic resources have provided a long-term livelihood for the local residents around the reservoir. However, in recent years, destructive fishing methods, such as the use of explosives and electricity, have posed serious risks to the reservoir’s ecosystem.

Nguyen Huy Nhuan, Director of the Department of Agriculture and Environment said to effectively harness the potential of the area and sustainably manage and protect fisheries resources, the agricultural sector has advised the provincial Party Committee and People’s Committee to issue directives and policies on fish farming in the Da River Reservoir and other large reservoirs.

The provincial administration has paid special attention to planning, developing policies to encourage fisheries, and protecting and regenerating aquatic resources while maintaining ecosystem balance and providing livelihoods for local communities. Additionally, local authorities are tasked with preventing illegal fishing methods, ensuring a healthy environment for aquatic species. To replenish fish stocks, the province annually allocates budget and encourages businesses to release large quantities of fish fry into the natural environment.

According to Executive Director of Hai Dang Group Fisheries Co., Ltd. Nguyen Thi Dung, in addition to producing, processing, cultivating, and trading fish products, the company annually allocates funds for releasing different fish species to diversify and regenerate aquatic resources in the reservoir area.

Alongside efforts to restock aquatic resources, environmental protection has been a key focus. Relevant authorities and localities have ramped up awareness campaigns to educate people on the importance of protecting fisheries resources and the habitats of aquatic species, both in the wild and in aquaculture. Local residents are encouraged to comply with legal regulations, avoid using electric shocks, toxins, or explosives in fishing, and only fish during authorised seasons and within the legal size limits. Routine patrols and inspections are conducted to promptly detect and address violations, while raising public awareness of legal requirements for aquaculture.

Nguyen Van Chieu, Deputy Chairman of the Hoa Binh commune People's Committee, Hoa Binh city, noted that the commune has two villages along the reservoir. Local police and military forces have worked to inform and persuade the public to avoid prohibited substances and harmful fishing equipment, helping people understand that protecting fisheries resources in the reservoir area is essential for preserving their own livelihoods.

In protecting fisheries, local authorities strengthen checks and punishments for violations such as using explosives, electricity, or toxins for fishing. They promptly confiscate illegal equipment and work to conserve and protect aquatic ecosystems and endangered, rare species. Training sessions and campaigns on the Fisheries Law and related regulations are regularly organised, guiding residents on how to avoid introducing invasive aquatic species that could harm the environment, thus fostering greater public awareness of efforts to protect, regenerate, and develop fisheries resources.


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