Rivers are lifelines, bringing countless benefits to surrounding communities. Amid the tides of modern challenges, the sustainability of rivers has become a pressing priority. Motivated by this spirit, a fish stocking activity was successfully held on Friday, December 20, 2024, in the Banjar Dajan Peken River, Sembung Village. The event brought together various stakeholders passionate about environmental preservation, including village officials, the River Care Group, the Lembayung Natah Pertiwi Tourism Awareness Group, the Mina Ayu Aquaculture Group of Sembung Village, and the Sembung Village DKP Office. This initiative aimed to raise public awareness about the importance of maintaining river ecosystems as vital natural resources.

The event began with a semi-formal opening that fostered a warm and friendly atmosphere. The first speech was delivered by Komang Putri Marta Armayani, Chair of the Organizing Committee. In her address, she expressed gratitude and respect for the presence and participation of all attendees. “We are honored by your presence. This fish stocking activity reflects our support for the River Care Group and other community members who play a role in preserving our aquatic environment. Rivers, as sources of life, face significant threats, such as plastic pollution. Through this initiative, we hope to contribute to the sustainability of river ecosystems for the future,” she passionately conveyed.

The second speech came from Mr. I Made Purwodarminto, Chair of the River Care Group, who expressed deep appreciation for the involvement of students and other stakeholders. “The enthusiasm of the students inspires us all. We hope the strong relationship between the community, the village, and the students continues, enabling more sustainable programs like this in the future,” he remarked.

Following the speeches, all participants moved to three predetermined locations along the river for the fish stocking activity. Each site was carefully selected based on water flow and the potential for ecosystem support. This core activity unfolded with great enthusiasm. Participants, ranging from village officials to members of the River Care Group, actively engaged in the process. The fish were released one by one into the water, creating a lively and uplifting atmosphere. Smiles and laughter filled the air as groups took turns releasing thousands of fish fry into the river. Many attendees eagerly captured the moment with their phones.

Members of the Tourism Awareness and River Care Groups assisted diligently, ensuring the process ran smoothly, while village officials guided participants to distribute the fish evenly across all locations. The sunny weather provided perfect support, adding to the joy as the river’s ripples warmly welcomed the newly released fry.

This event also fostered inter-community interaction, with each participant playing an active role, symbolically sowing hope for a healthier river ecosystem. The cheerful buzz of conversations and laughter accompanied every hand that released fish into the water. A member of the Lembayung Natah Pertiwi Tourism Awareness Group shared, “This is a truly joyful moment. It feels like we’re all directly contributing to saving the river ecosystem we love.”

The activity concluded with a group photo session by the riverbank, set against the serene backdrop of lush scenery under a partly clear sky.

This fish stocking initiative was not only a platform for nurturing environmental hopes but also a means of strengthening collaboration between communities, environmental groups, and local authorities. The activity’s positive implications are expected to include the thriving growth of the released fish, increased awareness of the importance of preserving river ecosystems, and sustained partnerships among stakeholders. The spirit radiating from this event marks a promising beginning for ongoing collective efforts to maintain clean rivers and a brighter future for all.