The federal government has announced a plan to ban open-net salmon farms in British Columbia by 2029, renewing 63 fish-farm licenses for another five years before the ban takes effect. This move aims to protect Pacific salmon and address environmental concerns linked to open-net farming.
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Jonathan Wilkinson, stated that the plan would enforce stricter licensing conditions to safeguard wild species, manage sea lice on farmed fish, and increase monitoring of marine mammal interactions. After July 1, 2029, closed-containment salmon farming systems will be considered for nine-year license extensions.
Environmental groups, farmers, and First Nations have been in conflict over open-net salmon farms for years. Critics argue that these farms spread parasites and diseases to wild fish populations. Despite opposition from the salmon farming industry, Wilkinson emphasized the importance of transitioning to closed systems to protect wild salmon stocks.
Brian Kingzett, executive director of the B.C. Salmon Farmers Association, and Timothy Kennedy, president of the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance, criticized the plan, calling it unrealistic and harmful to communities and jobs. They argued that the plan lacked scientific basis and was influenced by activist voices.
B.C. Minister of Land, Water, and Resource Stewardship Nathan Cullen urged the federal government to fund the transition to closed-containment systems, emphasizing the need for support for workers and communities.
Environmental groups welcomed the ban but expressed concerns over the length of the phase-out period. Aaron Hill, executive director of Watershed Watch Salmon Society, stressed the importance of preventing the discharge of farmed salmon water into the ocean.
Wilkinson acknowledged the scientific debate surrounding salmon farms but stated that the precautionary principle warranted government action. The federal government plans to release a draft salmon aquaculture transition plan by the end of July, focusing on supporting First Nations, workers, and communities in the transition and promoting innovative and clean aquaculture technology.
Source: Stefan Labbé (June 20, 2024). Canada to ban open net fish farms in B.C. by 2029. Times Colonist. https://www.timescolonist.com/local-news/canada-to-ban-open-net-fish-farms-in-bc-by-2029-9105139
