Research Document 1998/164

A review of existing conventions, regulations, and policies pertaining to the control and minimization of negative impacts from aquaculture on wild salmonid stocks

By R. Porter, T. Carey, D. Harris, and K. Coombs

Abstract

There are many international conventions and agreements, as well as, national and provincial regulations and policies that influence the regulation of salmonid aquaculture activities relative to Atlantic salmon conservation in the Maritime Provinces. These conventions, agreements and regulations generally fall into two categories: those that were developed with the primary intent of conservation and sustainable use of fish and fish habitat including aquaculture; and, those that were developed for trade. Some of the conventions and agreements require a commitment from Canada to implement agreed-on procedures, while others provide guidelines, or good operating practices. International conventions and agreements tend to provide a "level operating field" and consistent standards for conducting business among contracting parties. Although many of the agreements were developed to conserve and protect wild stocks, they also assist the aquaculture industry, particularly in the area of fish health and quality of the environment. This review will consider international agreements, such as, those within NASCO (North American Commission Protocols for the Introduction and Transfer of Salmonids, the Oslo Resolution, and the Precautionary Approach) and ICES, Convention on Biological Diversity, and trade agreements. Federal and provincial agreements, regulations and policies, including among others, the Fisheries Act and regulations under the Act, Memoranda of Agreements on Aquaculture Development, the Wildlife Policy for Canada, and the policies specific to rainbow trout in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island will also be discussed. Most of the federal regulations described come under the authority of the Fisheries Act administered by Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), while the policies have generally been established by DFO and provincial agencies.

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