CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C. – The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) announced today $637,678 in funding to support innovation and sustainability in the aquaculture industry in British Columbia.
“This investment supports the British Columbia aquaculture industry in developing projects that are more innovative, sustainable and competitive in the international aquaculture playing field,” said Minister Shea. “I am pleased by the range of projects in this province that are receiving funding under DFO’s Aquaculture Innovation and Market Access Program (AIMAP). It demonstrates the scope and potential of the industry, its focus on environmental stewardship, and the economic benefits it offers to coastal communities.”
In British Columbia, a total of six aquaculture projects, four finfish and two shellfish, will receive federal support through AIMAP. These projects seek to expand the knowledge and technologies currently being used in the British Columbia aquaculture industry.
“Our government supports the development of a vibrant and sustainable Canadian aquaculture industry that contributes to the economies of rural, coastal and First Nations communities. Campbell River is just one community in B.C. that sees the benefits of this industry firsthand,” said the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs and Member of Parliament for Campbell River.
Through AIMAP, the Government of Canada supports the aquaculture industry by helping it develop and adopt management techniques and technologies that enhance the industry’s economic and environmental performance. The results of these projects, as with all AIMAP projects, will be shared with the Canadian aquaculture industry as a whole to assist in furthering Canada’s position as an international leader in producing sustainable seafood.
AIMAP funding helps recipients plan, manage and complete aquaculture projects to enhance the productivity, economic viability, environmental performance and potential of the Canadian aquaculture industry, as well as to produce a healthy and nutritious food source. This federal support also leverages investments from a variety of public and private sector sources, promoting collaborative efforts in Canada’s aquaculture industry and minimizing the duplication of effort.
For more information on DFO’s aquaculture program, the AIMAP application process, a summary of projects funded, frequently asked questions on AIMAP, as well as contact information, visit this website: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/aquaculture/sustainable-durable/innovation-eng.htm.
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Backgrounder:
B.C. Aquaculture Projects Receive Federal Funding
For more information:
Michelle Imbeau
Communications Advisor, Pacific Region
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
604-666-2872
Nancy Bishay
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(613) 992-3474
