Gis-based evaluation of locational suitability of existing fish ponds in Kyenjojo district – Bugaaki Sub-county

Abstract

In aquaculture, optimal site selection (in terms of water pH, dissolved oxygen concentration, water temperature, slope steepness, soil type, proximity to market centers, proximity to seed centers ) is one of the most important factors that determine the success of the fish farm. For maximum productivity, these should be critically observed before establishment of the farm. This study was aimed at carrying out at locational suitability analysis for existing fish ponds in Kyenjojo District. It was majorly aimed at examining and evaluating to what extent locational suitability in terms of chemo-physical and socio-economic factors affect the productivity of fish ponds as a constraint. The success of fish farming is depending largely on fish pond design and construction hence the need for research in the area. The study was conducted with in a month’s time. The chemo-physical parameters assessed included the soil types, the slope of the area and water sources .The socioeconomic factors included distance from major towns and distance from major roads. GIS tools were used to carry out the study. From the results all the sampled ponds were found to have been proper sited in the area with clay sandy soils. A total of 80% of the sampled ponds were found to have been constructed in the area with recommended slope percentage (2%). 20% of the existing sampled ponds were found constructed out of the recommended slope percentage. 67% of the sampled ponds were found to have been constructed near water sources while 33% of the ponds were found to exist in areas distant from the water sources.