Vietnam is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with Australia to enhance water quality monitoring for its shrimp farming industry. The project, spearheaded by Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, introduces AquaWatch Australia, a sophisticated water quality monitoring and forecasting system, at a pioneering pilot site in An Lao, Hai Phong.
This innovative site is the first of its kind in Vietnam, designed specifically to monitor inland aquaculture. The primary goal is to equip local shrimp farmers with access to near real-time data and forecasts, enabling them to better manage water quality and protect their shrimp stocks.
Dr. Alex Held, the lead for AquaWatch Australia, explained how the system operates. AquaWatch integrates satellite imagery with in-water sensors to provide timely updates and forecasts about water conditions. “This helps farmers anticipate challenges such as algal blooms and nutrient imbalances,” Dr. Held noted.
One of the key features of AquaWatch is its ability to detect subtle changes in water color, which can indicate potential water quality issues such as algal blooms, excess sediment, and runoff contamination. Given that aquaculture plays a vital role in Vietnam’s economy, addressing water quality concerns is crucial, as these issues can lead to significant losses for farmers.
Dr. Duy Nguyen, a scientist with CSIRO AquaWatch, emphasized the pioneering nature of this project in Vietnam. He highlighted that the integrated water monitoring system combines satellite data, sensor measurements, and AI-based forecasting, which is critical for the local shrimp farming community.
The Hai Phong demonstration site is instrumental in calibrating the AquaWatch technology to the specific conditions of the region. This foundational work is expected to pave the way for expanding AquaWatch to other waterways across Vietnam.
With regular updates and forecasts on water quality, shrimp farmers will be able to manage their operations more effectively. This includes optimizing feeding schedules, adjusting water exchanges, and maintaining water quality parameters within acceptable ranges. Additionally, the system will aid in responding to extreme events like algal blooms, ultimately leading to healthier harvests and minimizing environmental impacts.
The pilot project in Hai Phong is the result of a collaborative effort involving CSIRO, Hanoi University of Mining and Geology, and the Vietnam National Center for Water Resources Planning and Investigation (NAWAPI). This partnership not only introduces advanced technology to Vietnam but also enhances the country’s capacity for sustainable aquaculture practices.
The AquaWatch Vietnam site joins a network of global demonstration sites located in countries such as Australia, Chile, Malaysia, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States, showcasing the international commitment to improving aquaculture practices through innovative technology.
As this initiative unfolds, it holds the promise of transforming the shrimp farming landscape in Vietnam, ensuring that local farmers are equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly challenging environment.
