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SMALL-SCALE CULTIVATION PONDS IN MANGROVE CREEKS

Man and Mangroves deals with the question. How the mangrove ecosystem can contribute to the livelihood of the local population in a sustainable manner. What can this system do for the residents, in a sustainable manner? And how, in turn, can this contribute to the regeneration of this ecosystem? On this issue, we are also conducting studies, following the method of participative research. The local population takes part in the research process actively, from the formulation of the research question, to the data collection and interpretation. This way, we can utilize the local knowledge optimally, while increasing their ownership of the project. In 2011 we did studied the revitalization of small-scale fisheries in mangrove creeks.

Mangrove creek and fish pond linked to a mangrove creek, just outside the nature reserve of Bhitarkanika.

Purpose of this study was to find out whether small-scale fisheries in potential mangrove creeks and coastal water bodies could be revitalized. By potential we mean that not long ago, these creeks were flanked by lots of mangroves, and still contain that grey, saline, clay in which mangroves do flourish. In those days, the creeks were breeding grounds for fish and shrimps. All the time, the vegetation dropped leaves into the mud. This organic waste was cut into minuscule pieces, and consumed, by myriads of small crabs. The excrements of these crabs are perfect nourishment for newly born fish and shrimps. The local population welcomed this food.

Left: basically it is simple. Make sure the new-born shrimps can’t escape, and have the right food.

Right: traditional small-scale fisheries. Unfortunately there is hardly any vegetation left on the banks, for the supply of organic waste. If so, this would be a densely grown mangrove creek.

Thanks to our study we now know what is required for conducting a viable experiment:

Near to a mangrove creek with high and low tide, we will construct a fish pond. On two sides, the pond is provided with a sluice gate, and fine-meshed screens. First of all we want to cultivate mud crabs there, to expedite the decomposition process. For this we will use a fast-growing, and edible, crab species. If all goes well, there will be a sustainable and small-scale fish and shrimp farm for local use.
We encountered many ‘idle’ pools with standing, brackish/.fresh water that can be gainfully used for the cultivation of Indian water chestnut. This floating plant grows from the muddy soil through a long stem. The beautiful little white flowers generate small nuts, which have a very high food value, are low in fat and cholesterol, and have medicinal value as well. This, too, will contribute to the health of the local population!

Left: the Scylla serrata or green mud crab, a species that grows fast, and tastes good as well.

Right: nuts of the Indian water chestnut, which has a very high food value, and is used as a medicine to reduce fever as well.

In our pre-study we also wanted to find out how and where this could be done, including the question if there are local communities that welcome such experiments. After all we want to depart from of their own wants and possibilities. This implies that a considerable part of the efforts required for the experiment will have to be supplied by them. The experiment must be theirs, to make sure it will be carried on when we leave. Later on, in 2011, we expect to have reached solid agreements with one or two local communities.
These are the planned costs of implementing this experiment in 2011-12:

Pond with flowing water: € 4.250,-
Pond with standing water: € 1.250,-

These are the real costs in India only. If the experiments are really successful, it will be expanded to other sites in the year 2013, in order to increase the impact. Also the results will be shared with networks on sustainable livelihood, and climate change, in and around India and the Netherlands. We are sure this information is liked by others as well. You might like to take part. And you might come and see the results for yourself too, by signing up for our annual journey to the mangroves and the project!

The foundation board,
Josien Hofs of Rotterdam; chairperson
Tity Kuiken-Bruinsma of Kraggenburg; vice-chair
Gilles Tenhaeff of Utrecht; treasurer
Carel Tenhaeff of Scheveningen, secretary
Lida Dijkman of Almere; volunteer public relations