Feasibility study of commercial rainbow trout production in Lesotho

The objective of the study is to identify the technical, financial and economic feasibility of trout production in Lesotho. The approach adopted in this report is as follows: Chapter 1 provides a brief outline of the physical conditions in Lesotho with particular reference to factors relevant to trout production, Chapter 2 identifies the parameters which must be met in order to sustain trout production on an intensive/farm basis.. These criteria are then used to evaluate potential farm sites within Lesotho, Chapter 3 examines the current and potential markets for trout in Lesotho and South Africa, identifying the most feasible market areas which could be served, relevant price data and the likely share of markets which can be achieved, Chapter 4 draws together the findings of previous chapters in financial and economic analysis of hypothetical examples of trout farms. Hypothetical examples are used since no viable site for a farm was found to meet technical criteria, and Chapter 5 concludes the study with a brief reference to the Highland Water Project where in future, if proved feasible, trout production facilities in various forms could be attached.