Nova Scotia unveils new aquaculture strategy
The aquaculture industry of the Maritime Provinces in eastern Canada are coming under increased scrutiny by environmental groups, following the apparent success in raising these issues among politicians and the public at large by such well-heeled organizations and others in British Columbia. But some of these activities will likely be reduced now that the federal government in Ottawa is finally clamping down on the long-lasting abuse of the generous tax-deductible status of donations to some of these environmental activists.
The recently announced strategy for aquaculture development in Nova Scotia by the Provincial government sounds a lot like the direction taken in British Columbia some time ago- through initiatives taken by both the Province and voluntarily by the industry itself. The Canadian Press provides some overarching details;
Sterling Belliveau released a strategy today to improve regulations and share more information with the public about the $50-million (~€39 million) industry. Under the plan, the provincial government wants companies to report fish losses due to disease and mandate disinfection of aquaculture sites. The government also acknowledges there is public concern over aquaculture, so it is promising to develop a communications plan by the end of 2013.
Officials are promising to look into the feasibility of some form of “closed containment” rearing system- an initiative already underway by the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans and a number of private and philanthropic organizations- including the Atlantic Salmon Federation. There was no mention during media coverage of the strategy regarding the mandatory reporting and attempts of recapturing escaped fish from salmon farms such as is the case in B.C.
Greg Bennett of The Shelburne County Coast Guard provided some additional details of the strategy;
The strategy identifies and builds on four key pillars: farming responsibly, aquaculture engagement, regulatory safeguards, and jobs and the economy. Over the years, the government has heard many opinions on aquaculture development. Government officials say the strategy is a balanced response.
While not mentioned specifically in the strategy, officials also say the province will be conducting a review of the feasibility of closed containment in Nova Scotia, something groups opposed to large open water fish pens have been calling for. "Our strategy demonstrates our commitment to ensure aquaculture development is done in a way that protects the environment and traditional fisheries," said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau. "There is a bright future for aquaculture in Nova Scotia and this strategy will guide us."
The province's aquaculture industry is one of the most diverse in the world, including many different species of finfish and shellfish, as well as Irish moss and other sea plants. It boasts the largest land-based production facility in the world and every county has a link to the industry. Aquaculture is also a significant contributor to the rural and coastal community economies, worth about $50 million annually, creating about 750 direct and more than 1,000 indirect jobs. Despite that, the industry has been a hot button issue amongst communities. Some believe large open water fish farms are polluting local harbours and shorelines for little benefit.
Brett Loney, a spokesperson for the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, said the strategy addresses many concerns and provides a direction for the future of the industry. Among other things Loney said the strategy dealt with some legitimate environmental and management issues “that needed to be addressed.” Industry representatives commended the government on the new document. "The Aquaculture Association of Nova Scotia is very pleased with the new aquaculture strategy," said Bruce Hancock, executive director of the association. "Our members are proud of their responsible farming and they welcome the province's efforts to raise the bar on operating standards. We are confident we can meet this challenge.”
