Ontario fish farmers cast their net wider

A new conference aimed at freshwater fish farmers has been launched in Canada.

The Canadian Freshwater Aquaculture Conference (CFAC) will be held in April next year in Ontario and builds on more than 40 years of farmer-focused gatherings by Ontario’s strong fish-farming community.

The CFAC broadens the invitation to fish farmers, suppliers, researchers, Indigenous partners, and regulatory collaborators from across Canada, and is aimed at those working in freshwater aquaculture who raise fish outside the salmon-marine framework, especially small and mid-sized operations growing trout, Arctic char, and other alternative species.

Taking it national

“Each year we’ve seen more farmers from more provinces show up, share ideas, and feel like they’ve found their people,” said RJ Taylor, managing director of the Ontario Aquaculture Association (OAA) which is organising the conference.

“It’s turned into the go-to event for freshwater producers of all sizes, and now we’re excited to take it national. What makes it stand out is that it’s truly built for farmers - owners, managers, and those building their careers in aquaculture.”

The OAA said freshwater aquaculture in Canada is evolving rapidly. It added that with growing interest in species such as Arctic char and trout, and an increasing focus on sustainability, re-use technology and climate resilience, there is a pressing need for a place where farmers and suppliers can meet, exchange real-world lessons and build connections. CFAC is designed for that purpose.

The conference will be held at Deerhurst Resort on the shores of Peninsula Lake in Muskoka, from April 7-8. The resort is approximately two hours’ drive from Toronto’s Pearson Airport.

Broad agenda

The agenda includes a look at the latest innovations in freshwater aquaculture, including technology for better fish health, advances in recirculation and re-use systems for juvenile production, strategies to build more aquaculture in the Great Lakes region, and real-world climate change adaptations for aquaculture.

There will also be discussion on building social licence, and special symposiums on Arctic char and other alternative species.

CFAC will also feature a tradeshow of up to 50 exhibitors and there will be social events including a Tailgater Social and a gala dinner featuring a “Fishwear Contest” (bring your fish-themed outfit or accessory).

More information about the conference can be found here.