Oceanographic modelling for assessment of climate change impact on an offshore-influenced coastal fish farming region

21-P-06

Description

Climate change is shifting species distribution and affecting their habitat. This impacts every part of the salmon life cycle, for example:

• where they live and spawn
• migration time
• where they can survive

Water temperature fluctuations have increased in Quatsino Sound. This is a coastal area on the Northwest corner of Vancouver Island.
This project will explore the impact of climate change on salmon farms in Quatsino Sound. Researchers will track and model the ocean conditions of the region. The collected data will help and inform proactive management intervention strategies. The model can also be used to:

• study the effect of increasing temperatures on sea lice
• investigate the effect of more acidic/low oxygen waters coming near the farming area
• explore other production challenges linked to declining water conditions

Program Name

Aquaculture Collaborative Research and Development Program (ACRDP)

Year(s)

2021 to 2023

Principal Investigator(s)

Laura Bianucci, Research Scientist, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Institute of Ocean Sciences, Pacific Region

Email: Laura.bianucci@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Team Member(s)

• Glen Cooper, Aquatic Science Technician, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Institute of Ocean Sciences, Pacific Region
• Wendy Callendar, Physical Scientist, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Institute of Ocean Sciences, Pacific Region
• Andy Lin, Ocean modeller, ASL Environmental Sciences
• Bill Floyd, Research Hydrologist and Adjunct Professor Geography, Coastal Hydrology Research Lab, Vancouver Island University

Collaborator(s)

• Mia Parker, Director Environmental Performance & Certification, Mowi Canada West
• Alexandra Eaves, Science Advisor and Technical Program Manager, Mowi Canada West