The Directorate of Fish Resources at the Ministry of Agriculture launched a large fish-stocking campaign in the Kurdistan Region. The plan aims to increase fish populations and support sustainable aquaculture.
Officials released more than 3.5 million fish fingerlings into four major dams. These include Gomaspan, Bastora, Smaqoal, and Aqoban. The program targets stronger fish stocks and improved local production.
Fisheries manager Bestoon Najmaldin said the ministry carried out the operation under official supervision. The Minister of Agriculture, veterinary teams, training departments, and fishery staff all took part. They worked together to ensure proper environmental and technical standards.
Najmaldin said the project marks the first stage of a wider plan. The ministry will release more fingerlings in other reservoirs soon. He added that future phases will include the Chamrga Dam. The goal is to expand fish resources across the region.
Gomaspan Dam sits about 35 kilometers northeast of Erbil. It covers more than 6.1 million square meters. It stores up to 115 million cubic meters of water.
Bastora Dam also plays a key role. It holds 20 million cubic meters of water and supports local fish development. Aqoban Dam covers around 400,000 square meters. It stores 2.6 million cubic meters of water.
The ministry enforces a seasonal fishing ban each year. The ban runs from March to June across the Kurdistan Region. Authorities use this period to protect breeding fish and support natural growth cycles.
Officials confirmed that the ban will end on June 16. Fishing activities will resume after that date.
The ministry said the program supports rural communities. It also helps improve food security. At the same time, it strengthens sustainable water management across the region.
