A busy week at the fish plant in Harbour Breton as they processed surviving fish from a recent incident with Mowi Canada East resulted in the deaths of around 400,000 salmon. The aquaculture industry in the Coast of Bays has solid support from the local community, creating numerous job opportunities in rural south coast communities of Newfoundland and playing a significant role in boosting the economy.
Harbour Breton Deputy Mayor Roy Drake emphasized the importance of aquaculture in sustaining the local economy, stating that while traditional fisheries like crab and lobster still exist, aquaculture is currently the primary pillar supporting the industry. Despite challenges, the aquaculture sector, which has been operating in the area for over two decades, remains a key employer.
Although incidents like the recent fish mortality event have occurred in the past, including Mowi’s reported fish deaths in 2019, confidence in the industry remains high. Drake expressed optimism about the industry’s potential for growth, acknowledging occasional setbacks common to any sector.
Fabian Manning Jr., owner of 360 Marine Ltd. based in Harbour Breton, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the crucial role of aquaculture in the region’s economic landscape. Manning highlighted the necessity of aquaculture for sustaining livelihoods and communities in the Coast of Bays, underscoring its significance beyond the immediate area.
Despite public perception challenges, Manning stressed that similar incidents occur in various agricultural sectors worldwide, with aquaculture often facing heightened scrutiny. He suggested the need for collective efforts to address industry challenges and change perceptions, paving the way for future generations to benefit from aquaculture opportunities in rural Newfoundland.
Looking ahead, Manning sees potential for further aquaculture projects in the region and envisions a shift in industry perception to drive economic and environmental progress. While Mowi Canada East declined an interview regarding the recent incident, the company is set to process the live salmon harvested post-event this week.
The aquaculture industry’s resilience and potential for growth in Newfoundland’s south coast offer hope for continued economic prosperity and environmental stewardship, calling for collaborative efforts to ensure a sustainable future for the province.
[Image credits: Troy Turner/CBC]
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