The impact of fish farming on coastal communities in British Columbia

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The impact of fish farming on coastal communities in British Columbia Student Name: Student ID: 1 | P a g e

Contents Executive Summary ......................................................................................................................... 3 Problem ............................................................................................................................................ 3 Background ...................................................................................................................................... 4 Discussion of Findings .................................................................................................................... 6 Economic impact ......................................................................................................................... 6 Social dynamics ........................................................................................................................... 7 Environmental consequences ....................................................................................................... 7 Conclusion and recommendation .................................................................................................... 7 References ........................................................................................................................................ 9 List of Figures ................................................................................................................................ 10 2 | P a g e

Executive Summary Fish farming, commonly referred to as aquaculture, has emerged as a pivotal industry within the coastal communities of British Columbia, signifying a substantial economic, environmental, and social influence (Wade and Secretariat, 2017). This analysis delves into the multifaceted effects of fish farming, scrutinizing its implications on the region. Environmental considerations are paramount, given the delicate balance required for sustainable aquaculture. Evaluating the impact on water quality, marine ecosystems, and biodiversity is crucial to ensuring the long-term health of the coastal environment. Economically, fish farming has proven to be a robust contributor to the prosperity of British Columbia's coastal communities. The industry generates employment opportunities, stimulates local economies, and provides a reliable source of income for numerous individuals. Moreover, the social dynamics within these communities are intricately intertwined with the fish farming sector. Examining the social fabric involves understanding how aquaculture influences community structures, cultural practices, and overall well-being. This analysis underscores the intricate interplay of fish farming with the environmental, economic, and social aspects of British Columbia's coastal communities. Striking a balance between these elements is imperative for ensuring the continued success and sustainability of the aquaculture industry in the region. Problem The burgeoning growth of fish farming operations in British Columbia has sparked apprehension regarding potential adverse impacts on the environment and the livelihoods of coastal communities. This analysis delves into the identified concerns, aiming to evaluate the repercussions of this rapid expansion comprehensively. Key focus areas include environmental sustainability and the socio-economic well-being of coastal inhabitants. By scrutinizing these aspects, the objective is to shed light on the multifaceted challenges arising from the intensified presence of fish farms in the region. It is crucial to navigate a balance that ensures the industry's growth aligns with ecological responsibility and the preservation of community interests. 3 | P a g e

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Background Fish farming has emerged as a pivotal player in bolstering the economic landscape of coastal communities in British Columbia, responding to the escalating global appetite for seafood (Foreman et al., 2015). The industry's evolution, spurred by the surging demand, has undeniably positioned it as a key economic driver. Nevertheless, this meteoric rise has not been without its share of predicaments, giving rise to a complex web of challenges that necessitate careful consideration and strategic intervention. At the forefront of these challenges is the specter of environmental degradation. The intensified operations of fish farms, with their expansive infrastructure and increased output, have triggered ecological concerns (Bourne, 2014). Escapes of farmed fish, introduction of non-indigenous species, and the discharge of excess nutrients into the surrounding waters have collectively contributed to the degradation of marine ecosystems. This poses a threat not only to the delicate balance of local biodiversity but also to the long-term sustainability of the industry itself. Compounding the environmental predicaments are the brewing conflicts with traditional fisheries (Mallows, 2021). The burgeoning fish farming sector has encroached upon territories traditionally utilized by local fishermen, sparking tensions over resource allocation and access. Traditional fishing communities, reliant on age-old practices, find themselves grappling with the encroachment of a rapidly expanding industry that often operates at a scale beyond their comprehension. The clash between the old and the new further underscores the need for comprehensive policies that mediate these conflicts and ensure the coexistence of diverse fishing practices (Gibson and Sumaila, 2017). In tandem with environmental and territorial concerns, fish farming has instigated social disruptions within these coastal communities. The industry's growth has brought an influx of labor, altering the demographic fabric and cultural dynamics of these regions. Additionally, the economic prosperity generated by fish farming has not been evenly distributed, leading to socio-economic disparities that necessitate addressing. As these communities grapple with the ramifications of change, there is an urgent call for holistic approaches that account for the human dimensions of fish farming expansion. While fish farming stands as a beacon of economic opportunity for coastal communities in British Columbia, its ascent has been marked by a series of challenges that demand thoughtful and inclusive solutions (Pedelty, 2016). Balancing the imperative for economic growth with environmental sustainability, resolving conflicts with traditional fisheries, and addressing the social ramifications of industry expansion 4 | P a g e

are integral facets of charting a course for the future of fish farming in this region (Gibson and Sumaila, 2017). Only through a harmonious integration of these considerations can the industry thrive without compromising the delicate equilibrium of the coastal ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Figure 1: Map of the status of BC salmon farms by Living Oceans Society. Source: https://thetyee.ca/News/2015/07/10/Compensation-From-Fish-Farms/ 5 | P a g e

Figure 2: Aquaculture, production and value 2020. Source: https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/knowledge/economics/finfish-farming.html Discussion of Findings Economic impact Fish farming has emerged as a pivotal economic force in British Columbia's coastal communities, exerting a profound impact on the region's economic landscape (Clark and Munro, 2017). With the expansion of aquaculture, employment opportunities have burgeoned, providing a significant boost to local economies. The industry's ripple effect extends beyond direct employment, influencing various sectors like transportation and processing. Moreover, fish farming has contributed to the diversification of income sources for coastal residents (Clark and Munro, 2017). However, concerns linger regarding environmental repercussions, as some argue that improper practices may harm marine ecosystems. Striking a balance between economic benefits and environmental sustainability remains crucial for the continued success of fish farming in these communities. 6 | P a g e

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Social dynamics Fish farming's introduction in British Columbia has wrought transformative effects on the social fabric of coastal communities (D'Anna and Murray, 2015). As traditional fishing practices gradually yield to modern aquaculture methods, profound changes in community structures and cultural traditions have emerged (D'Anna and Murray, 2015). The shift signifies not only a practical adaptation to evolving industry norms but also a nuanced alteration in the societal relationships that bind these coastal inhabitants. As the aquaculture sector expands, fostering economic opportunities, it concurrently reshapes the dynamics of interpersonal connections and community identities. The impact extends beyond the economic realm, resonating deeply within the intricate social tapestry of British Columbia's coastal populations. Environmental consequences Examining the repercussions of fish farming on coastal communities in British Columbia unveils substantial environmental consequences. The critical concerns encompass a range of issues, including water pollution, disease transmission, and the escape of farmed fish into the wild (Gibson and Sumaila, 2017). Beyond these immediate challenges, the proliferation of aquaculture poses a significant threat to wild fish stocks, contributing to their depletion. As fish farms expand, the delicate balance of the coastal ecosystem is disrupted, affecting not only the aquatic environment but also the livelihoods of the communities dependent on sustainable fisheries. The need for comprehensive strategies that address these environmental impacts while supporting the welfare of coastal communities becomes increasingly apparent. Conclusion and recommendation In conclusion, the impact of fish farming on coastal communities in British Columbia is undeniably profound, encompassing economic, social, and environmental dimensions. While the industry has brought economic prosperity, its rapid growth has raised significant environmental concerns, including water pollution and threats to biodiversity. Socially, the transformation from traditional fishing practices to modern aquaculture has reshaped community structures and cultural traditions. Striking a delicate balance is imperative for sustainable development. Recommendations for the industry's future involve implementing stringent environmental regulations to mitigate pollution and protect marine ecosystems. Collaboration between fish 7 | P a g e

farms and traditional fisheries should be fostered to address territorial conflicts, ensuring equitable resource allocation. Moreover, comprehensive social programs are needed to mitigate the disparities arising from the industry's expansion, promoting inclusive growth. By prioritizing environmental stewardship, fostering collaboration, and addressing social challenges, British Columbia can navigate the complexities of fish farming, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with its coastal communities. 8 | P a g e

References Bourne, J.K. 2014. How to farm a better fish. [Online]. Available from: https://www.aquacircle.org/images/pdfdokumenter/efterret14/How%20to%20Farm%20a %20Better%20Fish.pdf Clark, C.W. and Munro, G.R. 2017. Capital theory and the economics of fisheries: implications for policy. [Online]. [Accessed 2]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gordon-Munro/publication/313276005_Capital_The ory_and_the_Economics_of_Fisheries_Implications_for_Policy/links/ 5a3822e7aca272a6ec1e7f72/Capital-Theory-and-the-Economics-of-Fisheries- Implications-for-Policy.pdf D'Anna, L.M. and Murray, G.D. 2015. Perceptions of shellfish aquaculture in British Columbia and implications for well-being in marine social-ecological systems. [Online]. [Accessed 1]. Available from: http://www.ecologyandsociety.org/vol20/iss1/art57/ Foreman, M.G., Guo, M., Garver, K.A., Stucchi, D., Chandler, P., Wan, D., Morrison, J. and Tuele, D. 2015. Modelling infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus dispersion from marine salmon farms in the Discovery Islands, British Columbia, Canada. [Online]. [Accessed 6]. Available from: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0130951 Gibson, D. and Sumaila, U.R. 2017. Determining the degree of'small-scaleness' using fisheries in British Columbia as an example. [Online]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308597X17304815 Mallows, C.J. 2021. Cultivating solutions: oyster farmers’ responses to environmental change in British Columbia. [Online]. Available from: http://dspace.library.uvic.ca/handle/1828/13001 Pedelty, M. 2016. A Song to Save the Salish Sea: Musical Performance as Environmental Activism. [Online]. Available from: https://books.google.com/books? hl=en&lr=&id=LnQwDQAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=Pedelty,+M. +(2016)+A+Song+to+Save+the+Salish+Sea: +Musical+Performance+as+Environmental+Activism. +Indiana+University+Press.&ots=TDopFGXGUG&sig=lcAPq- _XHeq9OCKLH3eOBKLxirM Wade, J. and Secretariat, C.S.A. 2017. British Columbia farmed Atlantic Salmon health management practices. [Online]. Available from: https://oaresource.library.carleton.ca/wcl/2018/20180207/Fs70-5-2017-072-eng.pdf Figures Reference List Map of the status of BC salmon farms by Living Oceans Society- https://thetyee.ca/News/2015/07/10/Compensation-From-Fish-Farms/ Aquaculture, production and value 2020- https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/knowledge/economics/finfish-farming.html 9 | P a g e

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10 | P a g e

List of Figures Figure 1: Map of the status of BC salmon farms by Living Oceans Society .................................. 5 Figure 2: Aquaculture, production and value 2020 ......................................................................... 6 11 | P a g e

The impact of fish farming on coastal communities in British Columbia

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