Editor:
We wanted to respond to Ms. Chadwick's letter regarding concerns about aquaculture (Coast Reporter, letters, Jan. 31).
We are proud to report that science, research and innovation are in fact the very foundation on which salmon farming is built and that, using her words, there is a 'mountain of scientific evidence' that our operations are sound, progressive and in fact, helping to conserve the world's oceans.
The Cohen Commission, after three years of investigation found that there was no evidence salmon farms were negatively affecting Fraser River sockeye (Final Report Volume 3, p. 24). Justice Cohen recommended that data continues to be collected at salmon farms for the next decade - and we're confident this data will only further confirm his findings that we are causing no harm.
There is no major expansion of salmon farming underway - only a return to processing amendments and applications by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Most applications now being reviewed were submitted years ago.
This is good news -because we feel the responsible growth of salmon aquaculture is a great opportunity for British Columbians.
Salmon farming employs thousands of residents in BC's coastal communities and generates millions in economic activity. Along with the local opportunities it offers, aquaculture helps supplement a limited number of wild salmon, which helps provide a healthy food to a growing demand.
Colleen Dane
BC Salmon Farmers Association
