Our Environment

As a relatively new and rapidly evolving form of food-production, aquaculture has been the subject of intensive environmental assessments - both here in BC and in the adjoining waters of Washington State. These assessments have consistently found that salmon farming poses a low risk to the environment, and that its environmental impacts are localized, temporary and fully reversible through natural processes.

Research and monitoring are of course ongoing, and the industry is working with government to ensure salmon farming remains a sustainable and well-managed component of the coastal economy and environment in BC. A more detailed description of issues and answers relating to the industry's environmental performance is available below.

Salmon farms are a relatively common sight along parts of British Columbia's spectacular coast. Like other types of natural resource-based economic development, they frequently raise questions in people's mind about the impacts they have on other environmental values.

Fortunately, the full range of environmental issues relating to salmon farming has been extensively studied - in BC, neighbouring jurisdictions and around the world. BC salmon farms also operate under extremely strict environmental regulations, and are subject to continual monitoring and inspections.

In this section, we address a variety of issues relating to salmon farming. You'll find a summary of the best scientific understanding, a listing of references, and information with respect to current regulatory requirements, and ongoing industry actions. Some of the key research is cited within the following sections, and you'll find a more comprehensive listing and links under Studies and Publications.

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• Escapes
• Atlantic Salmon
• Wild Salmon
• Ocean Floor
• Ocean Plants
• Marine Species