BC Aquaculture
Aquaculture contributes significantly to B.C.'s economy. With its mild climate, good water quality and sheltered bays, the province's coastline is well suited to all forms of aquaculture.
Three main groups currently cultured are:
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Finfish (including salmon)
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Shellfish
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Aquatic plants
Aquaculture in Canada is a shared responsibility. Fisheries and Oceans Canada works closely with other federal government departments, the provinces and territories, and the aquaculture industry to support sustainability in Canada’s farmed fish and shellfish sectors.
About
Licensing requirements for aquaculture
Provincial role
The provincial government's role in aquaculture includes:
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Licensing aquatic plant cultivation and issuing tenures where aquaculture operations take place on Crown land
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Protecting the provincial public interest in sustainable aquaculture development
Federal role - finfish and shellfish regulation
The federal government is responsible for regulating the finfish and shellfish aquaculture industries in B.C.
Fish health
Maintaining healthy stock is essential to sustainable and profitable farming. Aquaculture businesses are required to prepare and submit annual fish health reports to the Province of B.C.
Statistics
Seafood Industry Statistics
To support the agriculture and seafood industry and consumers, government collects and produces statistical information on industry performance, market and trade analyses, sector and regional profiles.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector Reports
BC Stats has produced a number of comprehensive reports related to fisheries and aquaculture.
Aquaculture Mapping
Fisheries and Oceans Canada has mapped finfish, shellfish and freshwater (land-based) aquaculture locations around the province.