Not all land-based aquaculture methods are equal, some are good some are bad for the environment. A flow-through system IS BAD, it discharges effluent back into the environment, in some cases piped directly into the ocean. The flow-through method should not be confused with a recirculating closed-loop system which has zero waste water, zero effluent, zero contaminants, like Sustainable Blue - regarded as the world's most responsible Atlantic salmon fishery. Closed-looped system IS BEST.
YARMOUTH
A proposed land-based salmon farm in Chebogue, Yarmouth, raised many concerns and opposition this past year due to the operators proposed flow-through system. Thanks to our founder and Chairman, Brian Muldoon, who presented to the Yarmouth Council regarding this issue. Also, our thanks to Inka Milewski marine biologist and former science adviser with the Conservation Council of New Brunswick, and co-author of the scientific study on fish farm effects in Port Mouton Bay, for her presentation to the Yarmouth Council on the hazards of flow-through fish farms. The application was denied by the Municipality due to its conflict with their land-use bylaws.
Twin Bays says:
"This is a very interesting development. The Municipality has a Land Use By Law that prohibits certain types of land based aquaculture. Industry wanted the Municipality to amend that By Law to permit a large, open flow, land based facility on an ecologically sensitive piece of real estate. In this decision, the Municipality has decided not to amend the By Law. Of course, this is not the end of the story but it demonstrates the important role Municipal Government can have on aquaculture development."
PLB & Region of Queens:
For over 3 years now, PLB and members of PLB have expressed to our Municipal Council that land use by-laws, which are in their control, can play a key role in controlling and safeguarding areas where aquaculture sites can be established. This applies to BOTH land-based and marine-cage farms which require use of LAND near their net-pen operations. Establishing fin-fish aquaculture as its own distinct land-use classification, separate from traditional fisheries and shell fish aquaculture, and with its own specific by-laws is a critical and necessary step. This CAN have significant impact on future fish farm applications as has happened in Yarmouth. Protection from water and environmental contamination, especially in residential zones, is a serious concern.
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