Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland

Through Budget 2015, the Provincial Government is investing more than $1 million over two years for oceanographic research to support aquaculture sustainable management practices and future expansion of the industry. The research will inform the further development of aquaculture bay management areas along Newfoundland’s South Coast. The creation of new bay management areas will help to enhance the health, biosecurity and performance of aquaculture sites as well as preserve the environmental integrity of the ecosystem that both aquaculture and wild fisheries rely upon.

“Aquaculture sustainable management is one of the goals of the Newfoundland and Labrador Sustainable Aquaculture Strategy 2014. A key objective under this goal is providing support to address aquatic animal health and disease management needs and the development and implementation of bay management areas is one of the strategic initiatives identified to help achieve this objective. Aquaculture Bay management areas are used throughout the world to enhance biosecurity and maintain a single species and year-class stock within defined areas. This work will provide sound scientific data to manage and ensure the continued success and long-term sustainability of this growing industry. - The Honourable Vaughn Granter, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture

This summer, the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture will complete survey work in the outer Bay d’Espoir area and investigation of new areas in the Bays West region, between Rose Blanche and Facheux Bay. Next summer’s survey work will begin investigation of potential sites in Placentia Bay.

This work will be supported by the Marine Institute’s research vessel, MV Anne S. Pierce, and will gather:

• Oceanographic information on currents, tides, surface and deep water movement, sea bed topography; and
• Other environmental information related to water salinity, temperature, weather, and wind.

“At the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University, we have a vested interest in the sustainability of the aquaculture sector, having worked closely with the industry since its creation in the 1980s. We look forward to being part of this oceanographic survey which will help gather the scientific data required to identify and define bay management areas. Our training and research vessel, MV Anne S. Pierce is equipped with the latest in ocean mapping technology and will provide comprehensive seabed and water column profiling data.” - Glenn Blackwood, vice-president, Memorial University (Marine Institute)

Establishment of a scientifically validated, ecosystem-based area management regime supports the continued sustainable expansion of the salmonid aquaculture sector, enhanced biosecurity and fish health policies and practices. It also better informs licensing and development of aquaculture areas. To date, 11 bay management areas have been created along the south coast in the Bay d’Espoir area.

“Our industry is fully committed to sustainable and environmentally responsible growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. Continued collection of oceanographic data creates a clearer understanding of our marine environment that equips industry stakeholders with the scientific knowledge to make well-informed decisions and to ensure that farming of the world’s highest quality seafood continues in our rural and coastal communities for future generations.” - Mark Lane, Executive Director, Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association

Expanding the province’s aquaculture industry drives economic development and employment in rural regions and supports the province’s population growth strategy.

Live Here, Work Here, Belong Here, A Population Growth Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador, 2015-2025 is the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s 10-year plan to support individuals and families. The strategy will ensure investments and programs are aligned to encourage individuals to choose Newfoundland and Labrador to live, work and raise a family. The Population Growth Strategy is supported by four action plans covering the main elements of population growth – workforce, families, communities and immigration. For more information visit http://www.gov.nl.ca/populationgrowth/.