ARCHIVED - National Aquaculture Strategic Action Plan Initiative: East Coast Shellfish Sector Strategic Action Plan

2011–2015

November 9, 2010

Introduction

The National Aquaculture Strategic Action Plan Initiative (NASAPI) is a collaborative exercise led by the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers (CCFAM) to enhance and advance economically, environmentally and socially sustainable aquaculture development in all regions of the country.  For additional information regarding the initiative, refer to the overarching NASAPI document. The initiative includes five strategic actions plans that pertain to the five regionally distinct aquaculture sectors in Canada: East Coast marine finfish, East Coast shellfish, national freshwater, West Coast marine finfish and West Coast shellfish.  Although the action items outlined herein are specific to the marine finfish aquaculture sector, implementation of this action plan should remain consistent with the vision, objectives and guiding principles of the initiative’s overarching document.

The strategic action plans outline areas where efforts are required to improve public governance of aquaculture and private operations (although not all of the action items within the plans necessarily apply to all provinces and territories).  Effective, well-communicated governance enhances public confidence in government oversight of industry activities, leading to an improved social licence—and in turn, to increased investor confidence in aquaculture, which will stimulate responsible and sustainable growth that creates economic prosperity.  

Responsibility for the implementation of the strategic action plans lies principally with the bilateral Federal–Provincial Aquaculture MOU Management Committees.  For those actions that are national in scope, the CCFAM Strategic Management Committee will assume a lead role in implementation.  The following principles will guide the implementation process:

• Each government partner shall remain accountable to its jurisdiction.
• Using a collaborative decision-making process, the Federal–Provincial/Territorial Bilateral Aquaculture MOU Management Committees will prioritize actions, agree upon time frames and coordinate implementation efforts.
• Implementation will occur in accordance with the resources available within each jurisdiction where agreed upon - i.e., the process is intended to help direct resources toward areas of need and priority within each province/territory.
• Performance measurement will facilitate implementation by helping to keep the plan(s) current and by identifying constraints.

GOVERNANCE

Within the federal government, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) is the lead agency for aquaculture development. As such, part of DFO's mandate is to create the conditions necessary to support a vibrant and innovative aquaculture sector. Several other federal departments and agencies are involved in the management of aquaculture in Canada. Most notably, these include the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Environment Canada, Health Canada and Transport Canada. The provinces and territories also play substantive roles in the development and management of aquaculture.

Environmental Management

In shellfish aquaculture, the requirement to uphold environmental protection is enforced under several federal and provincial/territorial acts and regulations.

The NASAPI presents an opportunity for governments to introduce increased consistency and certainty to these processes by applying harmonized environmental standards, monitoring and reporting. This is expected to improve environmental management within the sector, leading to increased public confidence in both industry operations and government oversight of them.

Action Items—Environmental Management

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Environment Canada, Industry & Other Stakeholders

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry

Introductions and Transfers of Aquatic Organisms

In 2003, Canada’s provincial, territorial and federal governments jointly introduced The National Code on Introductions and Transfers of Aquatic Organisms, which establishes an objective decision-making framework regarding intentional introductions and transfers of live aquatic organisms in Canadian watersheds. The Introductions and Transfers (I&T) Code prescribes a consistent process for assessing and managing the potential risks associated with introducing and transferring aquatic organisms, thereby enabling governments to maximize the benefits associated with such introductions or transfers while avoiding harm to natural aquatic ecosystems, deleterious genetic impacts on feral fish populations, and risks to aquatic animal health from the spread of pathogens and/or parasites. (Note, however, that the I&T assessment process does not include diseases that are regulated under the NAAHP.)

The I&T Code is designed to protect aquatic ecosystems while encouraging the responsible use of aquatic resources for the benefit of Canadians. It is administered by a combination of federal and provincial agencies under the Fisheries Act; the Fisheries (General) Regulations authorize DFO to issue I&T licences in all provinces and territories except Québec (in freshwater), Ontario and the Prairies, where provincial regulations apply. The NASAPI presents an opportunity to introduce comprehensive policy and management guidelines to improve consistency and predictability for the aquaculture sector, particularly when routine transfers are involved.

Action Items—Introductions & Transfers

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry, CFIA

Navigable Waters Protection Act

Most suspension (floating) aquaculture structures require approval under the Navigable Water Protection Act (NWPA) because they have the potential to interfere with navigation. The requirement for an NWPA approval may also trigger a federal environmental assessment under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act if the project is considered likely to cause substantial navigational interference.

The NASAPI has identified an opportunity for Transport Canada to introduce a more standardized approach for site reviews and navigational marking requirements for aquaculture works. Renewed site review and operational guidelines will improve consistency and interpretation amongst regional reviewers and level the playing field for producers. Efforts should also be made to extend the approval period beyond five years, with longer approvals and simplified renewal procedures for compliant operators.

Action Items—Navigable Waters

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Transport Canada, Industry, Provinces/Territories

On-Site Inspection

Federal and provincial/territorial legislation and regulations make it necessary for government officers to conduct site inspections from time to time to ensure that legal requirements are being upheld. The NASAPI presents an opportunity to introduce clear and comprehensive guidelines that could consolidate and streamline federal–provincial/territorial inspection requirements. A renewed and consistent inspection and reporting protocol would increase operator compliance and enhance public confidence in governments' abilities to oversee the sector.

Action Items—On-Site Inspections

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Provinces/Territories, DFO, EC, TC, CFIA

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Provinces/Territories, DFO, EC, TC, CFIA

Access to Wild Aquatic Resources for Aquaculture Purposes

DFO's policy on Access to Wild Aquatic Resources for Aquaculture Purposes provides a framework and criteria to facilitate access to wild fish and aquatic plants for aquaculture in situations where access to wild stocks is essential to the development and expansion of the Canadian industry—for example, to collect organisms to establish or supplement captive broodstock populations. Since most fisheries are managed under limited entry rules—and recognizing that many fisheries are fully subscribed—the policy has been designed to ensure that the requirements of the aquaculture sector are factored into Integrated Fisheries Management Plans (IFMPs).

Because few participants in the Canadian aquaculture sector are aware of the policy, it is not routinely applied. The NASAPI presents an opportunity to enhance awareness of the policy and improve access to wild aquatic resources for aquaculture producers.

Action Items—Access to Wild Aquatic Resources for Aquaculture Purposes

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry

Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program

The Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program (CSSP) was introduced in 1925 to protect the public from the consumption of contaminated shellfish (class Mollusca). A secondary objective is to ensure, where applicable, unencumbered trade in shellfish between Canada and the U.S. by maintaining standards consistent with the American National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP) guidelines.

The CSSP is jointly administered by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Environment Canada (EC). EC conducts shoreline sanitary surveys, monitors growing water quality, and classifies harvesting and growing water areas. DFO opens and closes areas, enforces closures, and controls relaying, depuration and the harvesting of shellfish from classified areas under the authority of the Fisheries Act and regulations. The CFIA oversees the handling, processing, labelling, transportation and import/export of shellfish. The agency also provides liaison with foreign governments and manages the marine biotoxin monitoring program.

Historically, the CSSP focused primarily on the wild commercial harvest intended for export. Today, the program is facing growing pressures from expanding aquacultural, recreational and aboriginal (food/social/ceremonial and commercial) sectors, as well as deteriorating water quality from increasing urbanization, coastal development, point-source sewage outfalls and agricultural run-off.  Tougher patrol standards from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Union—our principal markets—are additional challenges placing growing demands on the limited resources available for testing, regulation and enforcement.

The NASAPI presents an opportunity to renew key aspects of the CSSP to help producers and harvesters provide appropriate food safety assurances and maintain access to foreign markets.

Action Items—Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the potential contributors, the second column indicates the specific action, the third column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the fourth column indicates the status of this action item.

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, CFIA, EC, Industry, Provinces/Territories

Other Regulatory and Governance Issues

Other regulatory and governance issues exist within the aquaculture sector, as outlined in the following chart. Among these, the rights and obligations of aquaculturists under the existing legislative and regulatory regime should be better defined with respect to property rights, public rights of access to waters near aquaculture sites, First Nations and aboriginal rights, etc. The NASAPI presents an opportunity to address and resolve these matters as well.

Action Items—Other Regulatory & Governance Issues

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the potential contributors, the second column indicates the specific action, the third column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the fourth column indicates the status of this action item.

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - CFIA, DFO, EC

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - CFIA, Industry, DFO, EC

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Provinces/Territories, DFO, CFIA, EC, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, CFIA, EC, Provinces / Territories

SOCIAL LICENCE AND REPORTING

Public Engagement and Communications

This action plan outlines means to improve private operations and public governance within the sector to advance the environmental and social sustainability, as well as the international competitiveness, of Canadian aquaculture. Assuming these action items are implemented effectively, the industry’s social licence should improve - but only if First Nations, aboriginal groups, community interests and the general public are aware of the progress within the sector. Therefore, timely and transparent communications as well as active community engagement are necessary to disseminate information about the economic, social and environmental sustainability of Canadian aquaculture. As part of the NASAPI, DFO, in collaboration with Statistics Canada and the provinces/territories, will compile an annual progress report entitled Aquaculture Sustainability Reporting Initiative, which will objectively present the economic, environmental and social sustainability of Canadian aquaculture.

Considering the broad array of user groups and the overlay of public and private interests in the aquatic environment, a broad policy perspective and public support are essential for effective aquaculture development planning. To be effective, planning initiatives must reflect an ecological perspective to spatial boundaries on a watershed basis, taking into consideration the interests of aquatic and upland users. The NASAPI presents an opportunity to develop and implement a cooperative planning approach to identify areas within Canada's coastal zone where aquaculture development can be optimized. Governments can play a variety of catalytic roles, including policy development, providing financial contributions to stimulate progress, and contributing to the science base required for aquatic resource mapping.

Action Items—Public Engagement & Communications

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, EC, Provinces/Territories, Research Organizations, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry

First Nations and Other Aboriginal Groups

Sustainable aquaculture development has proved beneficial to several First Nations communities. Aquaculture presents an opportunity to supplement limited harvest volumes from the food fishery, address nutrition and human health issues by providing a source of wholesome foods, and improve the social situation. Today, First Nations and aboriginal communities are engaged in aquaculture development throughout Canada. Several First Nations, such as Kitasoo/Xiaxias on the central coast of British Columbia, Aundeck Omni Kaning on Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Mi’kmaq in Nova Scotia, and Miawpukek in Newfoundland, have elected to become directly engaged in aquaculture production to generate employment and prosperity in their communities.

In contrast, some other First Nations have been more reluctant to become involved in aquaculture as they are uncertain about the effects of aquaculture development or do not have the capacity to evaluate and implement opportunities in aquaculture. Still other communities are vocally opposed to aquaculture development within their traditional territories. Nevertheless, First Nations and other aboriginal communities have access to some of the best sites for aquaculture development in Canada, and many have an undeniable need for sustainable economic development opportunities. Furthermore, the current participation of  aboriginal communities in aquaculture is not commensurate with the opportunities available. Aboriginal aquaculture development is often precluded by insufficient awareness of potential opportunities, misinformation regarding the environmental effects of aquaculture, the lack of capacity to develop opportunities, and difficulty with accessing capital.

The NASAPI presents an opportunity to further engage First Nations and aboriginal communities in aquaculture development by making it easier to evaluate opportunities in the sector.

Action Items - Aboriginal Engagement in Aquaculture

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, First Nations, Other Aboriginal Groups, INAC, Provinces / Territories, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, First Nations, Other Aboriginal Groups

PRODUCTIVITY AND COMPETITIVENESS

Shellfish Health

Shellfish health and animal welfare are pivotal concerns for the aquaculture industry. Poor health and disease increase the cost of production, decrease revenue (because of higher mortality rates, reduced growth and inferior product quality), and compromise public confidence. In some regions of Canada, the capacity to deliver effective fish health management programs is compromised by the small size of the aquaculture sector. Consequently, the capacity to diagnose disease events and administer appropriate treatment and/or management measures can be inadequate. In some regions, this has weakened controls governing potential vectors for pathogen transfer and compromised research into diseases of commercial relevance.

Under the leadership of the CFIA, in partnership with DFO and with the support of the CCFAM, the National Aquatic Animal Health Program (NAAHP) has been launched to better manage serious infectious diseases among aquatic animals in order to protect Canadian aquatic animal resources and to facilitate trade of aquatic animals along with their products and by-products, both nationally and internationally. Amendments to the Health of Animals Regulations and the Reportable Diseases Regulations, and to proposed and existing regulations under the Fisheries Act, are intended to streamline the regulatory management of fish diseases. The NAAHP has the mandate to prevent the introduction and spread of serious pathogens associated with live animals, products, by-products and other elements through (i) mandatory notification of disease; (ii) emergency disease response; (iii) import controls; (iv) zonation; and (v) national movement permits. The NAAHP also facilitates trade internationally through an export certification program for aquatic animal health, and will do so nationally through a voluntary Facility Recognition Program. Support activities for the NAAHP include surveillance, risk assessment, diagnostic laboratory services and regulatory research.

Clearly, shellfish health protection and management is a complex undertaking. The NASAPI presents an opportunity for industry and governments to cooperate more effectively to implement proposed changes to the federal and provincial shellfish health management regimens.

Action Items—Shellfish Health

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Provinces/Territories, CFIA, DFO

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, CFIA, HC, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, EC, PMRA, VDD, CFIA

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - CFIA, DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry

Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic invasive species are defined as "fish, animal, and plant species that have been introduced into a new aquatic ecosystem and are having harmful consequences for the natural resources in the native aquatic ecosystem and/or the human use of the resource" ^{Footnote 3} and which have not become naturalized.  Identified vectors for transferring invasive species in aquatic environments include attachment to ship/boat hulls, transfer through ballast water, the use of live bait, aquarium/water garden trade, live food fish, and the movement of fisheries and aquaculture gear and products.^{Footnote 4}

Currently, many East Coast shellfish operations are afflicted by the Atlantic oyster drill, oyster thief, green crab, and multiple species of tunicates. Some of these species out-compete cultured organisms for habitat and resources while others prey directly upon the cultured species. Perhaps the most urgent situation concerns the PEI mussel industry, where four species of tunicate have imposed a significant increase in on-farm labour costs.

Once an invasive species has become established in an area, it becomes essential to develop innovative technologies and practices to effectively manage It. The NASAPI presents an opportunity to enhance measures to manage aquatic invasive species, which continue to be a nuisance to aquaculture operations and impose additional operating costs.

Action Items—Aquatic Invasive Species

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, HC, EC, CFIA, Provinces/Territories, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Provinces/Territories, DFO, EC, Industry, Universities, Research Organizations

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Provinces/Territories, DFO, EC, Industry, Universities, Research Organizations

Emerging Technologies

Measures to improve sustainability and prosperity in aquaculture are driven largely by the application of innovative technologies. Looking toward the future development and expansion of aquaculture, there are several areas that warrant additional investment in innovation. The NASAPI presents an opportunity to address the following needs within the East Coast shellfish aquaculture sector.

Action Items—Emerging Technologies

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry, Universities, Research Organizations,  EC

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors -DFO, Provinces/Territories, Industry, NRC, Universities, Research Organizations

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces/Territories, CFIA, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors -Industry, DFO, Provinces/Territories, NRC, Research Organizations

Alternative Species Development

An industry is loosely defined as a group of companies producing more or less the same product using more or less the same processes and generating a profit. While not all ventures are successful, collectively, the sector is generally profitable. By this measure, there are only a handful of industrial aquaculture sectors in Canada; salmon, trout, oysters, mussels and clams. On the other hand, there are many alternative species that are purported to have commercial potential. Successful commercialization of these alternative species for which the foundational research is complete requires a focused effort to overcome the last remaining challenges so that their production becomes commonplace.

Current fiscal challenges warrant a rational process to advance industry diversification on a regional basis. Therefore, targeting resources strategically toward a select number of emerging species with the greatest potential for economic viability is a practical strategy. The status of various species purported to be feasible for commercial aquaculture has been assessed, leading to a prioritized list of species for further development. The target of NASAPI is to advance commercial aquaculture development for these targeted species within a five-year horizon. The initiative does not preclude ongoing research into other potential species that are not yet sufficiently advanced for commercial-scale development. Specific action plans for the prioritized East Coast shellfish species follow.

Action Items—Alternative Species (East Coast Marine Finfish)

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, Universities, Research Organizations, Regional Funding Agencies, DFO, ACOA, NRC, Provinces/Territories

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, Universities, Research Organizations, Regional Funding Agencies, DFO, ACOA, NRC, Provinces/Territories

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, Universities, Research Organizations, DFO, Regional Development Agencies, NRC, Provinces/Territories

Risk Management and Access to Financing

Aquaculture is often still perceived as a high-risk industry. Many investors lack confidence in the industry, so debt and equity financing can be difficult and expensive to attract. This is particularly true for smaller producers, such as those in the shellfish sector. Developing a more attractive investment climate for producers of all sizes is imperative, which is why it is important that both industry and governments define measures to quantify and reduce the risks inherent to aquaculture. For example, while many operations currently implement robust best management practices (BMPs) and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to mitigate risk, these practices are not yet universal. Moreover, until these and other practices, such as benchmarking^{Footnote 5}, become routine in the sector, it will be difficult to secure more affordable insurance coverage. Consequently, producers are encumbered by high insurance premiums, inadequate insurance coverage, or no coverage at all.

Action Items—Risk Management & Access to Financing

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the potential contributors, the second column indicates the specific action, the third column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the fourth column indicates the status of this action item.

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, DFO, AAFC, Provinces/Territories

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Seafood Value-Chain Roundtable, Federal–Provincial/Territorial Governments, Financial Sector, Industry

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry

Infrastructure

Infrastructure comprises the core assets that support an economy by providing for communities’ and industries’ developmental and operational needs. It includes systems for water supply and treatment, energy, communications networks, transportation (roads, waterways, wharfs, ports), etc. Infrastructure is also required to support the generation of knowledge to advance sustainable development (e.g., R&D capacity).

Although there have been preliminary efforts to identify requirements for aquaculture-specific infrastructure (ASI), a formal planning process to identify ASI requirements has not occurred. As a result, aquaculture development relies largely on infrastructure established for other purposes. Furthermore, the rural and often remote locations of aquaculture operations sometimes leave producers without adequate basic infrastructure to develop and efficiently operate their businesses. Such limitations inhibit daily operations, increase production costs, and create barriers to development. The NASAPI presents an opportunity to target infrastructure needs within the aquaculture sector in an effort to secure investment to advance sustainable aquaculture across the country.

Action Items—Infrastructure

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, DFO, TC, Provinces/Territories

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, DFO, Provinces/Territories

Marketing and Certification

Demand for fish and seafood in domestic and international markets is driven largely by consumer perception of product quality, food safety and value. Assurances of environmentally sustainable production, socially acceptable resource use, adherence to stringent food safety protocols, and farm-to-market traceability for all products are increasingly sought by consumers and seafood buyers looking for independent verification of attributes beyond what would be certified by governments. As a result, and as evidenced by the emergence of high-profile eco-labelling and quality assurance programs, responsible certification systems with third-party compliance audits are increasingly important in the fish and seafood sector. Currently, however, the Canadian aquaculture industry operates under a variety of certification and product traceability systems. In the not-too-distant future, it is conceivable that one or more international certification programs will emerge to address marketplace demands.

For some Canadian aquaculture products, there has been insufficient effort directed toward generic market promotion. Producers and processors in some sectors are often unwilling to support such initiatives if they are not supported by all players. As a result, it has been difficult to increase demand and prices for aquaculture products. Additionally, some parts of the Canadian aquaculture sector are still largely focused on the production and sale of commodity products. Value-added products comprise only a small proportion of total output.

The NASAPI presents an opportunity for producers, with government support, to review emerging market certification programs. It is also believed that generic marketing efforts will help to improve prosperity and stability within the sector.

Action Items—Marketing & Certification

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, DFO, Provinces/Territories

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, DFO, Provinces/Territories, AAFC

Labour and Skills Development

Aquaculture is often cited as offering the potential to attract or retain youth within coastal and rural communities by providing meaningful, resource-based employment. This is the case in several areas of the country (e.g., Vancouver Island, southwest New Brunswick). In other areas, however, it is difficult for aquaculture operations to attract labour; the shellfish sector is one example. To stay competitive, aquaculture requires a trained skilled and semi-skilled workforce.

The NASAPI presents an opportunity to re-examine the sector’s labour needs as well as the training and skills development programs offered by community colleges and universities throughout the country.

Action Items—Labour & Skills Development

This table outlines the summary information related to the action item identified above. The first column indicates the specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.

Potential Contributors - Industry, Provinces/Territories, Academic Institutions, HRSDC, NRC–IRAP

APPENDIX 1 — LIST OF ACRONYMS

AB

Province of Alberta

AAFC

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

ANAC

Animal Nutrition Association of Canada

ASI

Aquaculture-Specific Infrastructure

BKD

Bacterial Kidney Disease

BMP

Best Management Practice

CCFAM

Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers

SMC

CCFAM Strategic Management Committee

CFIA

Canada Food Inspection Agency

DFO

Department of Fisheries and Oceans

EC

Environment Canada

HC

Health Canada

HRSDC

Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

INAC

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

I&T

Introduction and Transfer (of aquatic organisms)

MOU

Memorandum of Understanding

NAAHP

National Aquatic Animal Health Program

NASAPI

National Aquaculture Strategic Action Plan Initiative

NRC

National Research Council

NWPA

Navigable Waters Protection Act

PMRA

Pest Management Regulatory Agency (Health Canada)

R&D

Research and Development

RAS

Recirculating Aquaculture Systems

SOP

Standard Operating Procedure

TAC

Total Allowable Catch

TC

Transport Canada

VDD

Veterinary Drugs Directorate (Health Canada)

Endnotes