Farming Fish

While the future outlook for fishing in Pncima is mixed depending upon the fishery; global market conditions and many characteristics of BC coast are suitable for the development of sustainable aquaculture.

Aquaculture is the cultivation of marine organisms in controlled conditions. The BC industry is comprised primarily of finfish (salmon, mostly) and shellfish aquaculture (such as mussels, clams and oysters.). Fifty-five per cent of B.C.’s finfish aquaculture sites are located within Pncima but under 3% of the shellfish sites. However many shellfish pilot projects are underway.

PncimaMatters Concerns
Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production industry in the world. Unfortunately, as it is currently practiced, it has the potential to harm marine ecosystems. Open net-cage salmon farming causes numerous problems, including infecting young wild salmon with lethal numbers of sea lice. Shellfish farming can alter inter-tidal habitat and introduce alien species. The harmful impacts of open net-cage salmon farming must be addressed as a matter of urgency, but broader planning for the development of a sustainable industry can be done within the integrated plan for Pncima.