Overview:

Palau’s offshore fishing network is getting a major boost with the completion of 12 new Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) anchors—an upgrade that promises stronger support for local fishers and more sustainable fishing opportunities. Built through a partnership among TNC, the Bureau of Fisheries, and CAT 84-10, the new anchors mark an important step in expanding Palau’s growing FAD system.

KOROR, Palau /November 13, 2025 —- “The collaboration with CAT has really helped,” said Dean Kloulechad, Fisheries Research Assistant at The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Micronesia and Polynesia. “It’s made the process faster, cheaper, and more sustainable. It’s great to see local skills and teamwork driving the work forward.”

That spirit of collaboration is powering Palau’s expanding network of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), which continue to play a vital role in sustaining local livelihoods. By the end of October 2025, twelve new FAD anchors had been completed at Camp Katuu through a partnership among TNC Micronesia and Polynesia, the Bureau of Fisheries, and the Civic Action Team (CAT) 84-10.

Dean and Sgt. Miller working to create additional Fishing Aggregate Devises to strengthen Palau’s offshore fisheries.

The anchors are a critical part of Palau’s strategy to strengthen offshore fisheries and provide sustainable alternatives for local fishers. FADs attract tuna and other pelagic species closer to shore, helping reduce pressure on nearshore reef fish populations that many communities depend on.

One of the biggest challenges has been maintaining a steady supply of anchors for new FAD deployments and replacements. The newly fabricated anchors, however, represent a major step forward. Unlike older models, they are lighter, more efficient, and can be deployed using the Bureau of Fisheries’ own vessel—saving both time and costs.

The updated design, developed by Bureau of Fisheries engineer Roman Mongami, uses locally available materials to make fabrication and replacement easier and faster. TNC provided materials and coordinated the partnership, while Sergeant Miller of CAT 84-10 led the fabrication, welding the anchors at Camp Katuu. The states of Ngarchelong and Ngeremlengui contributed by providing storage for the completed anchors. The new anchors have already been distributed to coastal communities and will support upcoming FAD deployments across Palau. The effort highlights how innovation and local collaboration can drive sustainable fisheries—ensuring that offshore resources continue to support Palauan fishers for generations to come.  (Source -PR)