Be Aquaculture Aware With BC Salmon Farmers

"Our farmers are proud of the contribution we make to coastal communities and it's important to them that people understand what we do and how important it is that we do it well," said Mary Ellen Walling, Executive Director of the BC Salmon Farmers Association (BCSFA).

In July, Campbell River council approved a proclamation for Aquaculture Awareness Week 19- 23 September, following a request by the BC Salmon Farmers Association. The proclamation recognizes the important role that aquaculture - particularly salmon farming - plays in Campbell River and the BCSFA's goal of better educating the public about their members' operations and opportunities.

The BCSFA engages in many public events to share information about the industry: including four food shows a year, Oceans Day, the PNE, presentations to community organisations, public farm tours and more.

This week, the BCSFA will host its Annual General Meeting - drawing colleagues from across Canada to talk about the latest projects and innovations of the industry, both globally and nationally. Gold sponsor for this year's event is feed company Skretting North America, bronze sponsors include Creative Salmon, Grieg Seafood, EWOS Canada and Northen Ropes.

A trivia contest about BC's salmon farming industry will run in both local papers, and be posted to the BCSFA website 21 September. There will also be awards of recognition given to some Island residents who have done a lot to learn about and support this important business.

"We take very seriously the need to inform the public about salmon farming in BC," said Ms Walling. "Having a week where we highlight this as a priority for us and the community is a good motivation to keep focusing on education about salmon farming."

The BCSFA represents salmon farm companies and those who supply services and supplies to the industry. Salmon farming provides for 6,000 direct and indirect jobs while contributing $800-million to the provincial economy each year.