Environmental impacts of integrated fisheries development in the Bicol river basin, the Philippines: Fid-Bau Portal

Environmental impacts of integrated fisheries development in the Bicol river basin, the Philippines

Lohani, B. N. / Santos, Nathan L.

This article is based on a study conducted from March 15 to August 15, 1983 at the proposed Naga-Calabanga Integrated Fisheries Development Project in the Bicol region, the Philippines. Baseline studies were conducted on all environmental parameters and impact predictions were made. The Bicol River, the main source of water supply for the proposed fishery estate was found to be polluted in terms of total solids; BOD, phenol, cyanide and bacteria, but these would not be a limiting criteria for fish production since milkfish have a wide tolerance for physical, chemical and biological conditions. The project area was marginal with respect to agricultural activity. Conversion of the site to the proposed fishery project would cause some localized adverse ecological impacts but the net impact would be beneficial and enhance estuarine environment. Some adverse impacts include barriers to migratory fish such as mullet, arid catfish and shrimps, deterioration of water quality downstream, probable increase of vector diseases, destruction of minor agricultural crops and vegetation and change of landform (from terrestrial ecosystems to aquatic ecosystems). Positive impacts include increased fish productivity, job opportunities, revenues, increased wetlands and improvement of health and nutrition. Thus, the aims and purpose of the project shall be achieved without unduly causing much adverse ecological impact on the environment.