Government Invests in Sustainable, Innovative Aquaculture in British Columbia

The aquaculture industry is evolving world-wide, said Minister Ashfield. The funding will ensure that Canadas aquaculture industry continues to remain globally competitive, while enhancing economic prospects for Canadians.

This investment of $1.25 million will support three finfish and eight shellfish aquaculture projects in B.C. The projects will improve the competitiveness of the Canadian aquaculture industry and encourage the development of innovative technologies and management techniques.

Recipents of the funding include: Bees Islets Growers, Island Scallops Limited, Island Sea Farms, Nova Harvest Limited, Nootka Sound Shellfish, Aphrodites Garden, Macs Oysters, B.C. Shellfish Growers Association, Sable Fish Canada, B.C. Salmon Farmers Association and Taste of B.C.

The Harper Government is committed to supporting the sustainable development of Canadas aquaculture industry, based on the best science available and within one of the most rigorous regulatory systems in the world, said Minister Ashfield.

British Columbias aquaculture industry creates close to 6,000 jobs, resulting in $224 million in annual wages. About 740 aquaculture operations in B.C. produce salmon, other finfish and shellfish year-round, with a total harvested value of nearly $534 million.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada recently released Aquaculture in Canada 2012: A Report on Aquaculture Sustainability.This report documents current information related to the social, economic and environmental dimensions of aquaculture.