ARCHIVED - National Aquaculture Strategic Action Plan Initiative: West Coast Marine Finfish Sector Strategic Action Plan
2011–2015
December 16, 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. The NASAPI presents an opportunity, where practicable, to develop a more harmonized, single-window approach to aquaculture management.
Aquaculture Management
In February 2009, the British Columbia Supreme Court (BCSC) ruled that the activity of aquaculture is a fishery which falls under federal jurisdiction pursuant to sub-section 91(12) of the Constitution Act, 1867 - Sea Coast and Inland Fisheries. Nevertheless, the Province of British Columbia still plays an important role in sustainable aquaculture development, specifically with regard to granting land-use (site) tenures. In response to the court ruling, Fisheries and Oceans Canada has committed to establish a federal regulatory regime governing aquaculture pursuant to the Fisheries Act in the geographic area of British Columbia and along the Pacific coast. When brought into force, the comprehensive Pacific Aquaculture Regulations will have a significant and direct impact on the aquaculture management in BC.
Action Items - Aquaculture 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.
| Actions | Suggested TimeframeFootnote 1 | Status |
Finalize the regulatory review process and enact the Regulations Develop interim key policies and operational documentation for transition to a DFO delivered regime under the PAR |
Year 1 |
On-going |
Potential Contributors - DFO, EC, TC, CFIA, British Columbia, Industry, First Nations and other stakeholdersFootnote 2
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Develop, for example:
|
Year 1 |
On-going |
Potential Contributors - DFO, EC, TC, CFIA, British Columbia, Industry, First Nations and 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Develop, for example:
|
Year 2 |
On-going |
Potential Contributors - DFO, EC, TC, CFIA British Columbia, Industry, First Nations and 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Prioritize R&D requirements for improved environmental management in aquaculture |
Year 1 |
|
Potential Contributors - DFO / British Columbia, Industry, First Nations and other stakeholders
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Review and update Transport Canada's Application and Site Marking Requirements for Aquaculture Projects in Canada to meet federal, provincial/territorial and industry needs
|
Year 1 |
On-going |
| Conduct a review of all current Transport Canada aquaculture approvals to determine the level of compliance and take measures to bring all sites into compliance | Year 1 | On-going |
| Identify policy and/or procedural means by which Transport Canada can allow for 'works' to be realigned and/or modified within the boundaries of the leased area to facilitate improved site management without contravention of the NWPA | Year 1 | On-going |
| Identify means to lengthen the duration of NWPA approvals and to simplify the approvals process for compliant operators | Year 1 | On-going |
Potential Contributors - DFO, Transport Canada, Industry, British Columbia, other stakeholders
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.
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Conduct a comprehensive review of aquaculture rights, privileges and obligations vis-à-vis fisheries, riparian rights, agriculture, etc., including:
|
Year 1 |
|
Potential Contributors - DFO, British Columbia, Industry
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 all 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Define information requirements and establish a standardized system for compiling, reporting and disseminating operational and compliance information that is respectful of the proprietary nature of some industry data |
Year 1 |
On-going
|
| Incorporate information sharing protocols into the federal - provincial/territorial aquaculture MOUs | Year 1 | On going |
Where appropriate, and within the scope of the Privacy Act and other pertinent regulations, incorporate information sharing requirements as a condition for securing an aquaculture licence
|
Year 1 | On going |
Implement the Aquaculture Sustainability Reporting Initiative; i.e. compile information and publish an annual, fact-based and objective report on the social, economic and environmental sustainability of the aquaculture sector that will:
|
Year 1 | On going |
Potential Contributors - DFO, British Columbia, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Outline mechanisms to include local interests in informed dialogue, collaboration & communication
|
Year 2 |
On-going |
Coordinate existing efforts to develop geographical information systems for resource-use planning to facilitate aquaculture development in public waters
|
Year 1 | On-going in some areas |
| Where Integrated Coastal Zone Management initiatives are underway (e.g. PNCIMA), assure that regional aquaculture interests are appropriately represented | Year 2 | On-going |
Potential Contributors - DFO, EC, British Columbia, Research Organizations, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Industry associations to develop and/or maintain proactive communications |
Year 1 |
On-going |
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 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Encourage and support aboriginal engagement in aquaculture development through:
|
Year 4 |
|
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Provide resources to support capacity development within regional/watershed management groups with appropriate training and expertise |
Year 3 |
|
Potential Contributors - DFO, First Nations, Other Aboriginal Groups
PRODUCTIVITY AND COMPETITIVENESS
Fish Health
Fish 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.
Vaccination against infectious diseases plays a key role in assuring the sustainability of the aquaculture industry. Vaccines help to reduce the use of antibiotics, and may indirectly help reduce the incidence of disease transmission between wild and farmed fish. Continued efforts are required to improve the quality of vaccines, and of vaccine administration methods, in order to increase the effectiveness of vaccination and facilitate the low-cost mass vaccination of farmed fish.
Clearly, fish 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 fish health management regimens.
Action Items - Fish 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Within each province / territory, compile an inventory of fish health services available to the sector, the time required to effect diagnosis and treatment, the implied costs and the extent of substantive limitations. Identify opportunities to improve fish health management as part of this review, agencies involved in fish health management will evaluate their capacity to deliver their mandated roles and responsibilities |
Year 1 |
On-going by CFIA; DFO and CFIA to further refine this initiative |
Potential Contributors - CFIA, DFO, British Columbia
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
|
Year 1 | On-going |
| Outline a national integrated pest management framework for sea lice | Year 1 | |
| Align biosecurity and fish health management plans to be complementary with NAAHP and PAR | Year 3 | |
| Establish therapeutant residue levels and withdrawal times for other production species (e.g. sablefish, halibut) | Year 3 |
|
| Develop a National Fish Health Database in coordination with similar existing provincial / territorial plans | Year 4 | |
| Industry to prepare corporate fish health management plans for all operating sites | Year 1 | |
| Establish means to enable third party auditing of industry compliance with fish health management plans | Year 3 |
Potential Contributors - DFO, British Columbia, CFIA, HC, Industry, Third-party Auditors
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Outline a regulatory process by which drugs and pest control products, technologies and procedures can be used for fish health management without contravening s. 32 or s.36 of the Fisheries Act while ensuring that proper measures are in place to conserve and protect fish and fish habitat |
Year 1 |
On-going |
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Review international examples of minor use programs for small livestock sectors and develop an appropriate program for the Canadian aquaculture sector |
Year 2
|
On-going |
Potential Contributors - HC, VDD, PMRA, CFIA, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Build relations with aquaculture clients, processors and other stakeholder representatives to ensure existing and new information on the NAAHP is distributed effectively
|
Year 1 |
On-going
|
| Implement mandatory reporting | Year 1 | |
| Discuss and develop aquatic animal health emergency response plans, including MOUs or other agreements, with provinces/territories and other affected partners and stakeholders | Year 1 | On-going |
| Implement import controls | Year 2 | |
| Develop and implement zonation and movement permitting based on the health status of Eradication Areas or parts thereof | Year 2 |
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
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Outline a regulatory process by which pesticides, drugs, chemicals, anaesthetics and disinfectants can be used for management of nuisance and invasive species without contravening s. 32 or s.36 of the Fisheries Act while ensuring that proper measures are in place to conserve and protect fish and fish habitat |
Year 3 |
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Establish a British Columbia 'advisory' group to identify research priorities and to develop comprehensive protocols for proactive management of aquatic invasive species |
Year 1 | On-going |
| Foster education amongst commercial and recreational users of the aquatic resource base regarding means to avoid the inadvertent transfer of invasive species | Year 1 | |
| Invest in research to better understand and control vectors for transfer of invasive species | Year 3 |
Potential Contributors - British Columbia, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Promote investment into pest management technologies and practices |
Year 1
|
On-going |
| Outline protocols for effective pest management in marine finfish aquaculture operations | Year 3 | On-going |
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 west coast marine finfish 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Review opportunities to adopt green technologies to improve waste management, energy use, water consumption, pest control, recycling in aquaculture |
Year 1
|
On going |
| Outline a comprehensive approach / methodology that would encompass all aspects of aquaculture environmental impacts for closed containment, RAS, open net cages, other technologies, etc. | Year 2 |
Potential Contributors - DFO, Provinces - Territories Industry, Universities, research Organizations, EC, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Research available technologies for closed-containmentFootnote 5 aquaculture and identify opportunities for commercial-scale evaluation |
Year 1 |
On-going
|
| Identify principal areas of risk associated with RASFootnote 6 and identify appropriate risk mitigation strategies, including environmental and business risk management | Year 1 | |
| Develop a comprehensive performance monitoring and management program to establish appropriate metrics for objective evaluation of CCA and RAS | Year 1 | |
| Promote benchmarking associated with land-based aquaculture systems | Year 3 | |
| Invest in a comprehensive assessment of markets to identify niche market opportunities specifically for products of CCA and RAS | Year 1 | |
| If preliminary assessments confirm that closed containment aquaculture is practicable, outline a plan to foster further development of the technologies to support this sector | Year 5 |
Potential Contributors - DFO Provinces - Territories, Industry, NRC, Universities, Research Organizations, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Conduct a comprehensive assessment of markets, biophysical resources, production technologies and financial viability for cultivation of marine plants for use in:
|
Year 1 | On-going |
| Continue to invest in evaluation of IMTA to address, among other things, overall environmental performance including life-cycle analysis of entire IMTA operation | Year 1 | |
| Economic modelling for IMTA with various species: primary (e.g. finfish), secondary (e.g. shellfish) and tertiary (e.g. marine plants) | Year 2 |
Potential Contributors - Industry Provinces - Territories, DFO, EC, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Refine technologies specifically related to biofouling control and predator control / management in net pens |
Year 1 |
On-going |
| Develop methods to improve mort disposal (e.g. generation of alternative revenue streams such as composting) | Year 1 | On-going |
| Develop improved technologies for identifying and tracking toxic algae blooms and for preventing the interaction of blooms with fish in net pens | Year 2 | |
| Develop efficient means to oxygenate waters in net pens | Year 2 |
Potential Contributors - Industry Provinces - Territories, DFO, NRC, Universities, Research Organizations, Other Stakeholders
Aquatic Feeds
A nutritionally complete and balanced diet that meets the needs of fish for growth and health is essential to produce a wholesome, quality product. Moreover, feed is the ultimate source of faeces and other metabolic waste by-products in fish culture operations. Thus, feed and feeding strategy have a determining influence on the environmental effects of an aquaculture operation. Additionally, since feed typically accounts for 40 to 60 per cent of the cost of growing fish, feeding strategy is also a significant factor in the financial viability of an aquaculture venture.
Being piscivorous species, salmon and trout require fish meals and oils in their diets for optimal performance. The aquatic feed sector is working to develop more efficient and effective diets using a larger component of agriculture-based inputs as part of a continuous improvement initiative to reduce the overall cost of feeds and to mitigate public concerns regarding ‘feeding fish to fish.’ Similarly, the industry is also developing diets tailored specifically for recirculation and cage-culture operations. The federal Feeds Act mandates specified ranges for several nutrients used in aquatic diets. Diets having nutrient formulations outside of these ranges face a cumbersome regulatory registration process, which stifles innovation for development of improved diets for current production species as well as development of diets for emerging species. In some cases, the minimum nutrient level (e.g., phosphorus) is higher than the current minimum nutrient requirements of the species, which can make the diets less environmentally friendly.
The NASAPI presents an opportunity to advance technologies, management strategies and regulations that could improve the sustainability of aquaculture operations through better feeds and feeding practices.
Action Items - Aquatic Feeds
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Continue to evaluate the availability of alternative feed ingredients sourced from the wild fishery and aquaculture (e.g. processing by-product, by-catch, etc.) to enhance the value of these resources, improve utilization and foster a more sustainable aquafeed sector |
Year 1 | On-going |
| Continue research on diets for alternative finfish species that are not yet widely produced (e.g. sablefish, halibut) | Year 3 | On-going |
| Support research to foster utilization of plant products in aquaculture diets as a replacement for fish meals and oils | Year 3 |
On-going |
Improve sustainability of aquafeed ingredients through:
|
Year 5 | On-going |
Potential Contributors - Industry DFO, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Support R&D to validate the prediction of environmental impacts from aquaculture operations based on feed use and hydrological conditions to establish credible environmental performance targets for feeds |
Year 3 |
On-going |
Potential Contributors - Universities Research Org’ns, DFO, NRC, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Coordinate a Regulatory Review Study aimed at ensuring that issues pertinent to the Canadian aquafeed sector are adequately communicated and addressed in the exercise being undertaken by the Animal Nutrition Association of Canada (ANAC) for submission to CFIA |
Year 1 | On-going
|
| Canadian aquafeed sector to develop an ongoing process to identify regulatory issues and communicate these formally to government on an annual basis | Year 1 | On-going |
Potential Contributors - Industry / ANAC
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 may be 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 the diversification of the industry on a regional basis. Therefore, targeting resources strategically on a select number of emerging species with the greatest potential for economic viability is a practical industry diversification 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 goal 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.Footnote 8 Specific action plans for the prioritized west coast marine finfish species follow.
Action Items - Alternative Species (West 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Prepare a comprehensive business case and developmental plan for sablefish (black cod) aquaculture that includes a review of the following factors:
|
Year 1 |
|
The development plan could include but not limited to the following:
|
||
| Initiate a comprehensive program to collect the necessary data to evaluate and quantify risks and evaluate insurance options for sablefish | ||
| Compile background information to support insurance product development |
Potential Contributors - Industry Universities, Research Organizations, Regional Funding Agencies DFO, NRC, British Columbia
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 9 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 specific action, the second column indicates the suggested timeframe, and the third column indicates the status of this action item.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
In sectors where BMPs/SOPs do exist, review the protocols and update as necessary |
Year 1 |
|
| In sectors where they do not yet exist, develop risk management & mitigation strategies based on Best Management Practices and accompanying Standard Operating Procedures for all aquaculture operations | Year 3 | |
| Foster use of 3rd-party audits to validate compliance with BMPs and SOPs | Year 2 |
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, wharves, 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Re-examine the review of industry infrastructure requirements conducted in 2007 and update the study as necessary to meet the current needs of the sector |
Year 1 |
|
| Conduct cost-benefit analysis to improve wharf infrastructure | Year 1 | |
| Where warranted, seek investment to improve wharves | Year 2 | |
| Outline a limited use / limited access policy for wharfs to improve biosecurity | Year 2 |
Potential Contributors - Industry DFO, TC, British Columbia
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Foster identification of aquaculture as a priority area for economic development and investment within federal and provincial infrastructure programs |
Year 1 |
|
| Conduct regional (provincial) assessments of infrastructure requirements for existing and developing aquaculture sectors | Year 2 |
Potential Contributors - Industry, DFO, British Columbia
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 producers and processors will be required to comply with one or more international certification programs to maintain market access.
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Identify appropriate certification standards for the west coast marine finfish aquaculture sector(s) |
Year 1 | On-going |
| Support industry with certification training and other efforts to facilitate entry into appropriate certification programs | Year 1 | |
| Ascertain that BMPs and SOPs meet the requirements of emerging international certification standards | Year 2 | |
| Foster use of 3rd-party audits to validate compliance with BMPs and SOPs | Year 3 |
Potential Contributors - Industry DFO, British Columbia, AAFC
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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Review potential to establish a pilot program for generic marketing supported by an industry check-off system |
Year 2 |
|
| after an initial 3-year period, continuation of the program will be voted on by industry members |
Potential Contributors - Industry DFO, British Columbia, AAFC
Labour and Skills Development
Aquaculture is often cited as offering the potential to attract or retain youth in 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 land-based trout farming and shellfish sectors are two examples. 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.
| Actions | Suggested Timeframe | Status |
Evaluate technical skills requirements in the west coast marine finfish aquaculture sector and outline education, training and extension needs in the sector |
Year 2 |
|
| Outline a labour market strategy to attract young people to aquaculture | Year 2 |
Potential Contributors - Industry, British Columbia, Academic Institutions, HRSDC, NRC-IRAP
APPENDIX 1 — LIST OF ACRONYMS
- 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
- CCFAM–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)
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