Glaudesnio visuomenės ryšio su akvakultūros sektoriumi skatinimas

For many FLAGs, a key objective of animation activities is to ensure a better integration of the fisheries sector within the community. To attain this objective, the FLAG “Our Krajna and Paluki” has been working closely with a large fish producer, capitalising on their fish farm and ponds to encourage local fish consumption and improve environmental awareness.

The Ślesin Fish Farm, the largest carp producer in the region (24 employees) and a member of the FLAG’s Board, carries out traditional pond-based fish production but would usually only sell their fish to wholesalers during the Christmas season and were therefore unknown to individual local consumers.

In cooperation with the fish farm and other actors, the FLAG has organised a series of activities:

• Fish farming demonstrations and carp filleting shows: in October, the local community discovers the world of fish farming thanks to live demonstrations by the farm’s employees. Fish filleting presentations also take place before Christmas in neighbouring municipalities, accompanied by cooking lessons and tastings.
• Bird camps: once a year during the migration season. The pond fishing activity helps maintain a number of local species - birds in particular – and a week-long stay on the fish farm is run for certified bird-ringing specialists of the nearby city of Bydgoszcz. The bird-ringers benefit from the rich biodiversity of the area as well as organising bird-watching hikes and workshops for schools. Normally closed to the public, the fish farm opens its doors so that students can learn about sustainable fishing practices and become acquainted with the animal and plant life of the region.
• Cross-country running and geocaching: a cross-country run is organised in the fish farm’s neighbourhood during a local annual festival. Several geocaches are hidden around the fish farm, letting the local community and visitors explore the surrounding nature and fish ponds.

These activities are developed and organised by the FLAG in close collaboration with the nearby LEADER LAG and in cooperation with the regional Agricultural Extension Centre in Minikowo.