Author
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Collins, Charles |
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Submitted to: Aquaculture Magazine
Publication Type: Trade Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 12/1/1998 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: The most important aspects of fish farming are discussed. Marketing the product must be investigated thoroughly before entering the business. Fish farming requires business skills, knowledge, labor, management, lots of money, and total dedication to the business. Resources such as land and a reliable water supply are necessary. The facility must be designed for efficient management. Failure to plan and provide for sufficient and efficient operating facilities will make the fish farmer wish that he or she had never heard of "fish farming". Technical Abstract: The most important fish farming consideration is marketing the product for a profit. A marketing plan should start by finding out what species are raised in the area and how they are marketed. Before the fish farm is started, make sure that your market is in place. A business plan must be developed which includes all costs like land acquisition, pond construction, water supply, feed storage, buildings, and equipment. Another major fish farming item is annual operating cost. If you plan to present this plan to a lending institution, a thorough plan must be prepared. Other important considerations are a dependable water source and land that is suitable for pond construction and possible expansion. Ponds must be designed for efficient management such as feeding, harvesting, and checking water quality. Pond size will depend on what species will be raised, where the fish will be marketed, and the topography of the land. Fish farming can be a profitable and rewarding occupation. However, failure to plan and provide for sufficient and efficient operating facilities may make you wish that you had never heard of "fish farming". |
