James Matsumoto, a resident of Capital Hill, recently released over 800 juvenile pearl white tilapia into two tanks set up at his residence. Mr Matsumoto now joins the 14 other aquatic farmers in the CNMI, reports The Saipan Tribune.
Mr Matsumoto first developed an interest in the aquaculture industry when he toured the Northern Mariana's College Cooperative Research Extension and Education Service’s (NMC CREES) wet lab at the college’s As Terlaje campus earlier this year. He then contacted CREES aquaculture extension agent Michael Ogo, who outlined the proper preparations necessary for an efficient aquatic farm. Among Mr Ogo’s suggestions were the needed equipment and materials essential to the aeration, filtration, and water circulation of the tank.
Staff members from NMC CREES staff then visited Mr Matsumoto’s residence to determine an appropriate spot for his tanks, which consists of two four foot deep round swimming pools with a 15 foot diameter. Mr Matsumoto purchased the pools on Guam and had them shipped to Saipan.
CRESS staff were also on site to monitor the installation of the tanks and the assembly and installation of the water quality management equipment.
"Mr Matsumoto’s project is another great example of how the College is helping residents explore new sources of nutrition and revenue and how the College is working hard to ensure that aquaculture becomes a major contributor to the economy," said NMC president Dr Carmen Fernandez.
The college’s Aquaculture & Fisheries Department continues to assist Matsumoto and its other aquaculture clients by providing technical assistance on feeds and feeding, water quality management, and production unit maintenance.
"I encourage other individuals in the community to take advantage of the expertise and the services provided by the college," Dr Fernandez told The Saipan Tribune.
NMC's Aquaculture & Fisheries Department is funded by the US Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture's (NIFA) Smith-Lever Act and Hatch Act Formula Funds.
Tilapia Production Increasing
NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS - Another local businessman has joined the Northern Mariana's(CNMI) aquatic farming landscape with the help of aquaculture officials at the Northern Marianas College.
