Fish Farms Make Comeback in Iraq's Babil Province

4-23-08
http://media-newswire.com/release_1064871.html

Fish farms have begun to thrive in Iraq’s Babil province, as Task Force Marne soldiers take on a critical role in rebuilding this vital industry.

Thanks to the vision of Army Col. Thomas James, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division’s 4th Brigade Combat Team and Army Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, commander of Multinational Division Center -- along with help from 4th Brigade Combat Team soldiers -- residents in the region are benefiting from this massive undertaking.

“After securing our area of operations in MND-C, our goal is achieving sustainable security for the people of our towns and villages,” James said. “One important means of accomplishing this is by providing jobs – including those at the fish farms of Babil province, where several thousand jobs will be available.” Creating jobs not only provides employment and income opportunities, but also establishes a positive alternative to joining extremist groups, he added.

The new fish farms have the potential to add at least 5,000 direct and indirect local employment opportunities to the region. In Hillah, the Euphrates Fish Farm alone will employ at least 500 people.