Manus sea cucumber harvest boosts economy amid warnings
The opening of the sea cucumber harvest season has triggered a wave of activity in the island villages of Manus Province, where local fishermen and divers are seizing the economic opportunity provided by this prized marine delicacy.
As the demand for sea cucumbers grows, the seasonal harvest has intensified, with villagers working full time to collect the valuable creatures from the surrounding seas.
On average, villagers earn about K200 per kilo, meaning a 10-kilogram bag of sea cucumber can bring in around K2,000.
However, the National Fisheries Authority [NFA] has issued a series of safety warnings and guidelines, emphasizing the need for responsible fishing practices to ensure the sustainability of sea cucumber populations.
Manus Province has been allocated a Total Allowable Catch [TAC] limit of 54,500 tons, the second highest of any province in Papua New Guinea.
In the past two weeks, the provincial fisheries office, led by Authorized Provincial Fisheries Officer Paul Mangeu, has conducted a series of community awareness campaigns to educate local residents on the rules surrounding the harvest.
Mangeu emphasized the importance of safety at sea, particularly in the face of the increased activity.
“We want to remind everyone to take the necessary precautions when diving or fishing in these waters,” said Mangeu.
“The sea can be unpredictable, and we don’t want to see anyone putting themselves at risk.”
In addition to safety measures, the NFA is also promoting sustainable harvesting practices.
Divers have been instructed to collect only mature sea cucumbers of an appropriate size, leaving undersized individuals to ensure that the population can continue to thrive.
The move aims to preserve the marine ecosystem and safeguard the long-term viability of the harvest.
“Locals must understand the importance of leaving the younger sea cucumbers behind to mature,” Mangeu explained.
“This is crucial for the sustainability of the industry and the environment.”