An evaluation of the engineering suitability of extensive brackishwater ponds in Barru, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia

In brackishwater aquaculture, pond engineering is essential to meet the cultured species' bio-physical requirements and potentially minimizing social and environmental impacts. This study evaluated the suitability of pond engineering designs and pond, dyke, and canal construction at family-run, extensive brackishwater aquaculture farms in Barru regency of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Soil properties, topography, hydrological data, field surveys, and high resolution (0.6 m) Quickbird imagery were used to assess the suitability of local pond engineering designs and the efficiency of canals. The study shows that in 752 of the evaluated pond units (430 ha), about 70% of pond beds were not constructed at the optimal pond elevation. Basic engineering requirements for pond layout and dyke and canal designs were not addressed in more than 70% of the pond units. Cease-to-flow conditions commonly occur due to the sedimentation of canals. Flows are also attenuated due to collapsed dykes. Farmers disregarded soil limitations and the impacts of tidal conditions and wave regimes. It is unlikely that shrimp and fish production in the region can increase without significant improvements in pond engineering. The problems identified by the study are not unique to Barru; they also occur in other extensive aquaculture areas in Indonesia and the region. Increased awareness of the need for improved pond engineering techniques is urgently needed to safeguard the economic and environmental sustainability of Indonesia's valuable aquaculture industry.