Golden potential from Son La Hydropower Reservoir

Located in the Northwest region of Vietnam, Son La Hydropower Reservoir is one of the largest freshwater reservoirs in the country, with a large water surface area, abundant natural food sources, and ideal environmental conditions. Stable water temperature, suitable pH, and clean water sources have created a favorable ecosystem for aquaculture, especially high-value fish species such as sturgeons. With these advantages, many localities in Son La province have been taking full advantage of the potential of the reservoir to develop sturgeon farming, not only to meet domestic consumption needs but also for export.

Sturgeon, especially Beluga and Russian breeds, are known for their outstanding economic value. Sturgeon meat costs from 15 to 20 USD/kg, while sturgeon eggs - a high-end product known as "black gold" can reach a price of 7,000 to 8,000 USD/kg on the international market. Therefore, raising the sturgeon on Son La hydroelectric reservoir brings economic benefits and contributes to feeding the position of Vietnam's seafood industry on the world map.

Initial trials and initial successes

2012 marked an important milestone in the development of sturgeon farming in Son La. Vietnam Sturgeon One Member Co., Ltd. - Son La pioneered the pilot farming project with 20 fish cages, with a scale of more than 20,000 fish, mainly Beluga - a purebred sturgeon imported from abroad by the Vietnam Sturgeon Group with good adaptability and high economic value thanks to its superior meat and egg quality.

To ensure the stable development of the fish, the company has applied a strict farming process following technical standards. From controlling feeding time and monitoring water temperature and pH to periodically checking fish weight to convert to suitable cages, every step is carefully carried out. In particular, the company pledges not to use chemicals on the banned list and to implement measures to protect the water environment, contributing to maintaining a sustainable ecosystem of the reservoir.

The results of this pilot farming have demonstrated the great potential of the sturgeon farming model in Son La. Not only did it achieve a high survival rate, but the fish also developed well, meeting the strict standards of the domestic and international markets. This success has opened a new direction, promising to bring a stable source of income for local people and promote regional economic development.

Economic benefits and social significance.

Sturgeon farming on the Son La hydroelectric reservoir is an effective solution for exploiting natural resources and brings many economic and social benefits. First, this model creates a significant source of income for participating in businesses and households. With high export value, Son La Sturgeon has the potential to become one of the key products, contributing to increasing the province's export turnover.  

In addition, sturgeon farming also creates many jobs for local workers, especially in lakeside areas. From building and managing cages and caring for fish to harvesting and processing, people had the chance to access modern farming techniques, thereby improving their skills and lives. Moreover, this model also contributes to reducing pressure on natural fisheries exploitation, protecting aquatic resources, and maintaining ecological balance.

Challenges and orientations for sustainable development

Despite initial successes, sturgeon farming in Son La still faces many challenges. The initial investment costs for importing breeds, building cages, and applying modern farming technology are quite large, requiring the support of the State through preferential policies. In addition, water quality control, disease prevention, and ensuring export standards are also issues that need attention.

For sustainable development, Son La needs to develop a long-term strategy, focusing on solutions such as investing in research and technology transfer; supporting people to access scientific advances in sturgeon farming, from breed selection to care and harvesting; strengthening international cooperation, seeking foreign partners to import high-quality breeds and expanding export markets; continuing to implement measures to control water quality, limit negative impacts on the lake ecosystem; promoting the Son La sturgeon brand, emphasizing the quality and sustainability of the product.

Towards a bright future

With the vast potential of the Son La hydroelectric reservoir and the determination of businesses and local people, sturgeon farming is gradually asserting its position as a promising direction. Not only does it bring high economic value, but this model also promotes sustainable development, improves community life, and makes Son La a bright spot on the map of Vietnam's fisheries.

In the future, with support from the government, research organizations, and the business community, Son La Sturgeon can reach the international market thoroughly and become a symbol of the harmonious combination of exploiting natural resources and protecting the environment. This journey is a story about the economy and a testament to the aspiration of a land rich in potential, etc.

Tuan Quoc

Translated by Tuan Minh Dang