"Closed Containment" Salmon Farming is a Political Idea
By Robert Wager, Comox Valley Echo April 26, 2011
I have been following the debates of the candidates in the riding covering Vancouver Island North.
The issue of aquaculture is very important and therefore some real questions need to be asked of the candidates.
Some background information on this issue can be read on the Pacific Salmon Forum 2009 final report. Everyone with interest in salmon production (wild and farmed) should read this report.
When one reads this report from many career marine scientists one is quickly educated on the real science of closed containment systems for salmon aquaculture. They stated:
"In 2007 the Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat (CSAS) engaged a multi-sector panel in an international review of closed containment technology. In a review of more than 40 closed containment systems from around the world, CSAS reported that none was successful in producing adult salmon at a commercial level."
Here is my question.
Can you please explain how you can campaign on the idea "closed containment" salmon farming can replace open net-pen aquaculture when the world experts state it is not possible at this time?
Three of the four main candidates who have given support to the political idea that open net-pen aquaculture should be converted to closed containment systems need to answer this very important question so that the voters can see the difference between real aquatic science and political-science.
The economic health of the north island region is at stake.
Robert Wager
Vancouver Island University
