Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mr. Wacharapol Khawkham, visited Lam Pao Dam in Kalasin Province to assess the situation of a black carp invasion. The visit aimed to monitor efforts to control and contain the spread of the invasive species in the area’s natural water sources. Recent survey data collected between August 31 and September 24, 2026, identified a total of 132 black carp across three districts. Fortunately, there have been no reported impacts on the province’s crucial shrimp and cage-raised catfish farming industries, which together generate an annual economic value exceeding 1.9 billion baht.
During his inspection, Mr. Wacharapol toured two key locations by boat. The first was Ban Na Uan in Tambon Nong Suang, Amphoe Nong Kung Si, the site of the initial black carp report. Here, he also visited catfish farming cages and engaged with farmers and fishermen, urging them to differentiate between native catfish and the invasive black carp through a campaign utilizing QR codes to facilitate reporting and removal.
The second area visited was Ban Kham Khuen Kaeo in Tambon Samran Tai, Amphoe Sam Chai, where the highest number of black carp were detected. Mr. Wacharapol reviewed the use of traditional fishing methods, including traps, nets, and dragnets, for removing the fish from the waterways. Concurrently, he received updates on research being conducted by the Department of Fisheries in partnership with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI). This collaboration focuses on employing environmental DNA (eDNA) technology to enhance the speed and accuracy of detecting and tracking the black carp’s spread.
In response to the findings, Mr. Wacharapol directed the Department of Fisheries, specifically the Freshwater Aquaculture Research and Development Division and the Fisheries Inspection Division, to collaborate with the Provincial Fisheries Office and local agencies to accelerate four key tasks.
The first priority is to intensify public relations efforts to educate the public on distinguishing black carp from economically important native fish like catfish and Thai carp. This includes highlighting specific identifying features such as the black spot under the chin, patterns on the dorsal and tail fins, and body shape to minimize reporting errors.
Secondly, the “Find, Report, Catch” initiative will expand its reporting channels, encouraging the public to alert the Provincial Fisheries Office or use the designated QR code system for swift official responses to sightings of suspicious aquatic animals.
Thirdly, the initiative will support the deployment of appropriate fishing tools tailored to each area. Provinces facing challenges with black carp eradication may apply to the Department of Fisheries for special permission or exemptions to use tools that are typically prohibited under fisheries laws, ensuring effective and lawful removal.
The fourth directive involves the implementation of sustained measures to address the black carp issue. This includes expediting their removal from natural water sources, supporting the introduction of predator fish where suitable, exploring options for utilizing caught fish for biogas or animal feed, and integrating eDNA technology with community participation.
Mr. Prasert Soraksa, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Fisheries, reported that the surveys conducted from August 31 to September 24, 2026, confirmed the presence of 132 black carp. Amphoe Sam Chai recorded the highest number with 117, primarily in Ban Kham Khuen Kaeo, followed by Amphoe Nong Kung Si with 13 in Ban Na Uan and Ban Khok Krum, and Amphoe Sahatsakhan with 2 in Ban Tha Ruea Phu Sing. By fishing method, traps accounted for the majority of catches with 108, followed by gill nets (12), cast nets (10), and other tools (2). The Department of Fisheries is actively collaborating with Kalasin Province, fishery networks, farmers, and community leaders to expedite eradication efforts and mitigate potential impacts on the ecosystem.
Kalasin Province’s fishery sector is substantial, with over 1,220 shrimp farms spanning 8,540 rai, generating over 789.95 million baht annually. Cage-raised catfish farming produces 19,578 tons per year, valued at over 1,135.52 million baht. Combined, these industries contribute approximately 1.925 billion baht to the provincial economy each year.
Mr. Prasert emphasized that while the current black carp situation at Lam Pao Dam is not yet considered invasive, continuous monitoring and eradication are essential. These measures are critical to safeguard cage fish farmers, shrimp farmers, and the broader ecosystem, and to prevent the spread of the invasive species into the Pao, Chi, and Mun river basins.