PRIMARY PRODUCTION
Fisheries Development
To promote sustainable development of the fishing industry and to conserve fisheries resources in Hong Kong waters, the AFCD has been working on the implementation details of fisheries management measures recommended in the 'Consultancy Study on Fisheries Resources and Fishing Operations in Hong Kong Waters' in consultation with the Working Group on Fisheries Management. The fisheries management measures under planning include the introduction of a fishing licensing programme and the designation of fisheries protection areas. Moreover, the AFCD carried out a trial on releasing fish fry in artificial reef areas in 2000 to enhance fisheries resources. To address the issue relating to the decline of fisheries resources in the traditional fishing grounds for Hong Kong fishermen and to assist fishermen to venture further afield, the AFCD commissioned a consultancy study to look into the feasibility of developing an offshore fishing industry for Hong Kong, for completion in early 2001. In addition, the department has been implementing an artificial reef deployment project in two phases to enhance fisheries resources and to promote conservation of the marine environment. The first phase, involving deployment of a total of 375 units. of artificial reefs at Hoi Ha Wan and Yan Chau Tong Marine Parks, was completed in 1999. The results are encouraging. Over 135 species of fish, including many high valued species such as Coral Trout and Green Wrasse, have been found using the reefs for feeding, shelter and as nursery areas. The second phase involves the deployment of artificial reefs at suitable locations outside marine parks. Following extensive consultation, two areas have been identified at Port Shelter and Long Harbour and deployment is scheduled to commence in 2001.
The Mainland fisheries authority again enforced a fishing moratorium in the South China Sea between June 1 and August 1 to conserve fisheries resources. The fishing ban was extended to cover cage trapping and only gill-netting, long-lining and hand- lining were allowed during the moratorium. About 1 400 Hong Kong fishing vessels were affected. To help the industry to cope with the fishing moratorium and resume operation afterwards, the ad-hoc working group established in 1999 was turned into a standing working group with enhanced representation from the fishing industry, environmental conservation groups and academics. The Government also assisted the affected fishermen through the provision of support services, low-interest loans and social security assistance. Fishermen who were issued special loans in 1999 were granted an extension of the repayment period for up to six months whereas those who were affected by the fishing moratorium for the first time were provided with low- interest loans and financial assistance under the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme.
To assist fish farmers, the AFCD conducts aquaculture studies and provides technical services towards the development of more efficient fish culture methods and improved husbandry technique. A fish health management programme is being implemented to help fish farmers minimise losses due to fish diseases. Under the programme, AFCD staff carry out regular visits to fish culture zones to facilitate early detection of disease outbreaks, to train fish farmers in disease prevention measures and to provide fish disease diagnosis service in case of a disease outbreak. Continuous effort is being made in developing feed formulations to replace trash fish, a traditional feed for aquaculture. Since 1994, a moist pellet feed comprising trash fish, fish meal, vitamin mixture and binder has been developed and extended to
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