| Salmon farming is a relatively new industry that has expanded rapidly, particularly over the past twenty years in several maritime countries. This industry offered promises of economic growth and job opportunities, as well as a way to diversify national economies and feed the world's growing population. However, such rapid growth has not come without costs. Worldwide, the industry was permitted to expand without adequate research into potential environmental impacts and associated regulations or guidelines. Over time, however, real and perceived impacts from salmon farming have affected public acceptance of farmed salmon and have forced governments to examine and revise regulatory strategies.;This paper examines the history of salmon farming in British Columbia (B.C.), discusses key issues that plague the industry and identifies current management practices in B.C., Norway, Chile, Scotland, and Washington State. It also documents the inadequate regulatory framework in B.C. that led to a moratorium in 1995 on the approval of new sites, and the initiation of a salmon aquaculture review. This is followed by a summary of the recommendations and conclusions presented in the review, and an analysis of measures taken subsequently to better manage the industry. A comparative analysis is provided of salmon farming practices in all jurisdictions examined in this study.;Regulation and management of salmon farming in B.C. appears to be more developed than in the other jurisdictions. However, there are still significant steps that should be taken to ensure the future viability of the industry. Recommendations to improve management of the industry and prevent or mitigate adverse environmental impacts emerged from the comparative analysis of salmon farming practices. It is suggested that sustainable management of the salmon farming industry in B.C. will only occur through a cooperative multi-stakeholder approach to decision making, implementation of integrated coastal management, and a greater emphasis on basic scientific research. |
