BC's Salmon Farmers ready for new year and new regulations

After months of work and anticipation, the federal government officially took regulatory control of the Pacific aquaculture industry this week - marking a big step in an important process, reports www.megafishnet.com with reference to BC Salmon Farmers Association.

"There has already been an incredible amount of work invested to ensure that these are strong regulations which meet the needs of all stakeholders," said Mary Ellen Walling, Executive Director of the BCSFA. "We're looking forward to being able to move forward after many months of work and transition."

In February of 2009, the BC Supreme Court ruled that aquaculture should be under federal regulatory control and, following an extension in early 2010, the official transfer date was set for Dec. 18, 2010.

BC's salmon farmers hope the new regime will help to streamline the regulatory process, while addressing any questions from the public. It is important that the best policies be in place to protect the environment, stimulate local communities and give business security and clear guidelines into the future.

"Our industry has become the strong presence it is today because of the hard work of farmers, government and other stakeholders," said Walling. "We look forward to that work continuing now that this stage of the transition process is complete."

The BCSFA represents salmon farm companies and those who supply services and supplies to the industry. Salmon farming provides for 6,000 direct and indirect jobs while contributing $800-million to the provincial economy each year.