Xifeng develops 'eco + smart' fisheries to boost rural vitalization

Xifeng county in Guiyang has tapped into its rich ecological resources and technological innovation to build a thriving "eco + smart" fishery model in recent years. This green development pathway is yielding both environmental and economic benefits, helping local aquaculture flourish while contributing to rural vitalization.

In midsummer, Luwuo town offers a picturesque landscape of clear waters and lush hills. At Jiangshengyuan Ecological Agriculture Co's perch farming base in Laowo village, over 70 mu (4.7 hectares) of standardized fish ponds are nestled along mountain slopes, with clean river water continuously circulated.

The perch farming base of the Jiangshengyuan Ecological Agriculture Co in Xifeng. [Photo/xifeng.gov.cn]

"Thanks to pristine water and scientific management, our perch is firm in texture and rich in flavor. We supply over 300 metric tons of premium fish to the market annually," said Hu Yixu, head of the base. Since its launch in 2019, the facility has expanded steadily, with an expected annual output value of 15 million yuan ($2.1 million) and over 300 local jobs created.

The base is enhancing farming techniques and accelerating its transition to intelligent aquaculture, using digital systems for real-time monitoring of water quality, dissolved oxygen, and temperature.

In Xishan town, Xifeng, ecological aquaculture is also thriving. The Xiaobu village project, operated by Guizhou Shuizhiyuan Agricultural Technology Co, makes the most of the town's average monthly water temperature of 12 C, ideal for cold-water species. Launched in 2020, the project includes sturgeon, perch, and catfish zones, plus eco-friendly tailwater purification. Now covering three villages, it yields over 700 tons annually, with a production value exceeding 20 million yuan, and hatches 8 million fry per year.

The smart fishery management system of Xiaobu village ecological fishery base. [Photo/xifeng.gov.cn]

Facing spatial limits in mountainous areas, the Xiaobu project introduced circular land-based tanks with recirculating water systems, smart temperature control, and automated monitoring developed in collaboration with Guizhou University and Guizhou Provincial Water Conservancy Research Institute.

"Smart systems let us manage the ponds via phone, reducing risks and boosting yields by 20 percent," noted company head Zhai Bing. Wang Mianbi, a resident of Xiaobu who is employed at the base, earns 4,000 yuan per month and appreciates the balance it brings to work and family life.

According to the county's agriculture bureau, Xifeng will continue scaling eco-fisheries and building a strong local brand, turning green resources into sustainable prosperity.