ENG-1993 — Page 157

PRIMARY PRODUCTION

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Large-scale development projects involving construction works affecting the foreshore and seabed have an adverse impact on the marine environment and marine resources. To offset these effects, the department, in collaboration with the Swire Marine Laboratory of the University of Hong Kong, is investigating the feasibility of deploying artificial reefs. The first experimental reef, located at Pak Sha O and covering an area of 100 square metres, was deployed in December 1993.

Aquaculture studies are directed towards the development of more efficient culture systems and improved husbandry techniques to increase productivity and minimise the impact on the environment. A moist pellet preparation which substantially reduces pollution due to wastage and leacheate, and increases nutritional value was introduced to mariculturists to replace trash fish as feed. The feasibility of open sea cage culture is being explored with a view to introducing marine fish culture to more exposed coastal waters. Studies on the marine environment are conducted to assess the impact of pollution and red tides on fisheries, particularly mariculture operations, to help the industry minimise production loss.

Fisheries development work includes modernising fishing craft and introducing more efficient fishing gear and navigational aids. A free advisory service on fishing vessel hull design, fishing methods and fishing equipment is available to fishermen, while studies are conducted to assess the suitability of new fishing gear and methods for local application. Training classes in navigation, engineering, radiotelephony, first aid, survival, fire-fighting and the use of ancillary equipment such as radar and weather facsimile equipment, and seminars on safety on board fishing vessels at sea are organised regularly at major fishing ports. The department also advises local fishermen interested in building steel-hulled fishing vessels and organises sea-fishing endorsement courses to train and qualify them to operate these vessels. In the long-term interest of the fishing industry, the department, in collaboration with the Marine Department and Post Office, is actively involved in the formulation of international and regional standards on fishing vessel safety under the Torremolinos Convention. Standard vessel drawings were prepared for distribution to the industry to cope with the Convention's requirements.

The department administers four loan funds servicing the fishing fleet. The Fisheries Development Loan Fund with $7 million provides long-term capital for the development of improved vessels, gear and equipment. The World Refugee Year Loan Fund, the Fish Marketing Organisation Loan Fund and the Co-operative for American Relief Everywhere Loan Fund, with a total capital of $27.72 million at the end of 1993, are revolving funds which provide shorter-term financing, mainly for recurrent purposes. By December 31, loans issued since the inception of these four funds totalled $257 million, with $233 million having been repaid.

At the end of the year, there were 63 co-operative societies and four federations supported by fisherfolk, with 2 043 members from the fishing community.

Close contact with the community is maintained by liaison with producer associations and fishermen's co-operative societies through seven Fish Marketing Organisation liaison offices at the major fishing ports.

Marketing

Much of the wholesale marketing of primary products, particularly fresh foods, is the responsibility of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, and the vegetable and