BRACKISH WATER FISHERIES PRODUCTION PROJECT

Evaluation covers the period 7/79-6/80 and is based on two field visits and discussions with project participants. Technical assistance in the province of Aceh was terminated on schedule on 9/1/78. Recent visits indicate that project activities in that province are being continued by the Government of Indonesia (GOI). Technical assistance in Sumatra was extended for 3 years to 9/81 because of project delays stemming from an undependable labor supply, poor location of the demonstration units, an inadequate data base, and inexperienced staff. These shortfalls are now being corrected. The following actions are planned to alleviate the remaining weaknesses in the project: M.S.-level training for two GOI staff members; marketing studies; completion of credit arrangements for fisheries expansion; a socioeconomic study to determine if the project is in accordance with local expectations; increased training for extension agents; assignment of a marketing information consultant; and improved budget support and administration of finances. The first tambak (brackish water fishery) mini-estate, consisting of 17 four-ha family units, has been constructed. A second mini-estate is planned (consisting of 13 units), and third site (25 units) has been identified. A total of RP 195,000,000 of credit has been extended. Future activities will include feasibility studies on the development of shrimp hatcheries and the use of water pumps to supplement tidal water and a detailed economic analysis of the project. Two external factors affecting the project are the GOI"s current priority on developing shrimp hatcheries in Java and recent, sharp increases in the price of milkfish fry (due to the successful marketing of surplus fry to Java and illegal exports). By 9/81, direct project beneficiaries will total 75 households. In the future, care should be taken to properly train host-country participants, particularly in management and planning. An annual report and an economic analysis (PD-AAI-300-A1) are appended.