Nova Scotia aquaculture operators receive government funds

Odd Grydeland As reported in FishfarmingXpert last week, the aquaculture industry in Nova Scotia was preparing for a good time at the Aquaculture Harvest Festival to be held in Sheet Harbour on Saturday. That party got a lot better with the following announcement by the Provincial Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture;Aquaculture operations and projects across Nova Scotia are developing new products, improving production and boosting quality, because of funding from the province. Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau announced today, Sept. 26, $793,499 (~€ 495,000) in funding for Nova Scotia aquaculture operators and projects to boost capabilities. The investment is part of $2.5 million (~€ 1.6 million) in aquaculture funding from the Community Development Trust Fund. "With 330 sites throughout Nova Scotia, the aquaculture industry provides jobs in our coastal communities and has great potential to grow," said Mr. Belliveau. "These sites provide a variety of high-quality shellfish, marine plants, and fish to local, national and international markets." The Community Development Trust Fund is a $34.9-million (~€ 21.8 million) program established in 2008 by the federal government to help communities and sectors experiencing economic challenges. "This funding is assisting in research, quality development, production and communication initiatives," said Mr. Belliveau. "The support of these projects will ensure aquaculture continues to grow within the province and provide secure jobs in our communities." The priorities of the trust fund, are to enhance sustainable prosperity; diversify economic and trade opportunities; improve productivity, innovation and training; assist communities with transition planning; and help workers facing adjustment challenges. 

14 different projects and initiatives received funding- ranging from eel culture development and the creation of a roadmap for investment to help the aquaculture industry in Nova Scotia expand in a progressive and sustainable manner.