GILLNET FISHERMEN'S FISHING OPERATIONS IN BENANGA RESERVOIR, LEMPAKE, NORTH SAMARINDA: AN ECONOMIC STUDY

The Benanga Reservoir, built in 1977 in the upper reaches of the Karang Mumus River in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, covers an area of 250 hectares. Serving as a flood control, clean water supply, and agricultural irrigation facility, this reservoir provides an ideal environment for fish development. Currently, many fishermen in the Lempake Village utilize this reservoir, which plays a crucial role in the local economy. However, fishermen around the dam face various challenges, including long droughts, which cause long-term declines in water quality and reduced fish populations, while illegal mining activities pollute the water and destroy fish habitats. Despite these challenges, fishermen around the dam are essential in supplying fish for local and regional consumption and supporting household income. Fishing activities in the reservoir are similar to those in other waters, though the fishing gear is more limited than those used in rivers or the sea. This study aims to assess the economic conditions of gill net fishermen in the Benanga Reservoir. A sample of 13 gill net fishermen was taken using a census method. The results indicate that the total costs for fishermen amount to IDR 1.975.789,51 per month, at the same time their revenues are IDR 4.269.230,77 per month, with a net income of IDR 2.293.441,26 per month and an RCR of 2.16, indicating that the fishing activity is viable for continuation.