Gov't to inject 34.9 bln won to build 'marine ranches' in 2010

SEOUL, Dec. 21 (Yonhap) -- The government said Monday it will spend 34.9 billion
won (US$29.5 million) in 2010 to build five "marine ranches" as part of an
ongoing effort to better utilize the country's aquatic resources.
The undersea ranches, to be built by the end of the year near the coastal cities
of Yeosu and Seogwipo, among other sites, are designed to create artificial
forests of seaweed that can support a diverse range of fish and benefit the
environment.
The government plans to allow local fishermen to catch fish in the envisioned
ranches, a measure aimed at generating employment and raising profits for fishing
communities struggling to cope with depleted resources.
The ranches are also expected to increase the use of the seas as recreational
areas for divers and lead to the creation of underwater theme parks.
The project, which was initiated in 1998, has drawn 84.5 billion won in public
investment so far, with 74.4 billion won to be used by the end of 2012.
One marine ranch has been built off the southwestern city of Tongyeong, with
another 11 to be set up by 2012.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
(END)