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CREES invites future growers of shrimp, tilapia
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Posted on Mar 26 2005
The Northern Marianas College–Cooperative Research Extension and Education Service is encouraging farmers to invest in the shrimp and tilapia business.
Agricultural extension agent Ross Manglona said that shrimp and tilapia farming are now possible for small-scale farmers who want to venture into such business and help keep the seafood supply sufficient for the Saipan market.
Manglona said a minimum capital of $1,000 would enable farmers and growers to set up a 12-foot diameter water tank at home.
Manglona said the agency is now growing shrimps and tilapia fish at the college. He said there are currently 1,000 shrimps and more than 600 tilapia fish in their tanks. He said they are using Commonwealth Utilities Corp. water.
The college is breeding Pacific white shrimps, also called Litopaneous vannamei, and a red hybrid tilapia.
Manglona said it would take at least six months to harvest the shrimps and tilapia.
The island has at least seven farmers who have sought the college’s help to set up tanks and so far, Manglona said, they have been very successful in their business.
CREES saw the opportunity to provide this service after seeing the short supply of shrimps and tilapia on the island. With their own supply at the college, they can immediately provide prospective investors the needed shrimps or tilapia to start their own farms.
Manglona said the college would extend technical assistance to farmers by giving free consultation and advice on how to set up the shrimp or tilapia farm in their homes.
This May, the college would hold a workshop to prospective farmers who want to give the shrimp and tilapia farming a try.
For more information for the workshop and other matters, contact the agency at 234-5498.
