Research paves way for marine farms

NEW ZEALAND - Marine farming has moved one step closer in the Bay after a study concluded our coastal waters offer "encouraging and exciting opportunities".

A multimillion-dollar research project has been conducted by Environment Bay of Plenty to determine how aquaculture will impact on the existing environment.

It has also mapped areas deemed unsuitable for marine farming, such as commercial navigation routes, fishing areas and travel pathways for whales and other mammals.

"From the beginning we realised we needed to put the effort in because we couldn't get it wrong. It's been worth the time and the cost.

Source: Bay Of Plenty Times