Aquaculture contentious for some

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The Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) rejects the government's move to allow growth in auqaculture within First Nations territory.

British Columbia is located next to the fastest growing salmon market in the world-the United States-which encourages salmon farming companies to invest in this province.

UBCIC president Chief Stewart Phillip stated, "Minister [of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries] van Dongen's government has demonstrated a total disregard for our traditional way of life.

"There is a very real danger that our waters will be colonized by Atlantic salmon; these are the same waters and spawning grounds First Nations people have depended on for centuries for their livelihood. With the wild salmon fishery already in jeopardy, there is now an even greater potential for our wild stocks to be completely wiped out."

However, steps are being taken to protect wild salmon, said Odd Grydeland, who is the president of the B.C. Salmon Farmers Association. "Just like other British Columbians, salmon farmers are committed to taking care of our environment, and in particular, to ensuring that salmon farming doesn't exacerbate the threats to wild salmon," he said. "We recognize the importance and necessity of strict rules and conditions, and we are committed to ensuring that our industry meets stringent environmental standards."

The government is implementing a new finfish aquaculture waste control regulation in accordance with recommendations from the Environmental Assessment Office.

The new regulation applies to all farms. It includes terms for registration, waste discharge standards, domestic sewage and pre-stocking requirements, best management practices, monitoring and reporting, remediation, fees and penalties. The regulation will be re-evaluated within three to five years.