Western Province Sustainable Aquaculture (WPSA) is a PNG Sustainable Development Program (PNGSDP) initiative which has a strong regional development focus, incorporating potential public, private and community partnerships.

Fishing is perceived as the most important industry after mining in Western Province. In recent years the collapse of the barramundi fishery in the Fly River due to over-fishing, changes in attitude and environmental degradation has significantly impacted on the income-generating and subsistence opportunities of the river-dependent communities along the Fly.

A number of communities along the Fly River have been affected by the presence of the Ok Tedi Mine (OTML), and are currently receiving payments which will phase out by expected mine closure in 2013. It is essential that these communities have access in the near future to sustainable economic opportunities which can generate cash as well as food security.

The WPSA Project

• WPSA is a K28 million program made up of a commercial barramundi hatchery facility and three associated social development projects
• Commercial trials to develop a barramundi cage culture model for future expansion
• Restocking project in which barramundi fingerlings will be stocked into the depleted Fly river system
• Conservation project to raise awareness and protect the wild barramundi fishery

The Hatchery

• Constructed on an 8.1 hectare site on Daru 
• Capable of producing 400,000 barramundi fingerlings per annum
• Signed a civil constructions contract with Curtain Brothers in June 2008
• Signed a building constructions contract with Yatala Property Developers in January 2009
• Built stakeholder capacity through regular Daru & community based awareness presentations
• Forged partnerships with OTML, the National & FRP Governments and the ACIAR