Scallop fishers’ salmon issues

TASMANIA’S scallop fishers will call on the State Government to rethink its draft sustainable salmon industry growth plan to ensure the state’s scallop industry is better protected.

Earlier this month, the State Government released its draft salmon industry growth plan, with interested parties and individuals now able to respond until September 29.

Under its plan, new “grow zones” are identified in the far North-West while other areas for potential fish-farm expansion include the east of Flinders Island and the Furneaux Group, and further areas at the outer reaches of Storm Bay and the D’Entrecasteaux Channel.

Despite the public comment period being extended to September 29, the Scallop Fishermen’s Association of Tasmania has already lodged its submission.

“There are some areas identified by the plan that are traditional scallop grounds,” association executive officer Bob Lister said.

“Having salmon there will really affect those areas and the production.”

The Mercury understands the two main areas the industry fears will be affected by the spread of salmon farming are in the far North-West near Stanley and the waters around Flinders Island, which is part of the scallop-rich Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery.

The area near Stanley is considered to be a significant larvae settlement and growing zone, with it being the only regular harvest area in the state that hasn’t been affected by paralytic shellfish toxins.

Under the Government’s plan, the East Coast will be fish farm-free — except for the Okehampton Bay fish farm.

Primary Industries and Water Minister Jeremy Rockliff said the submission would be looked at.

Also yesterday, an algal bloom warning was issued for recreational shellfish caught across eastern and southeastern Tasmania.

High levels of algal toxins have been detected in shellfish from Great Oyster Bay, Great Swanport, Little Swanport, Nubeena/Wedge Bay and the East Coast of Bruny Island including Adventure Bay.

The Department of Health warning covers recreationally caught oysters, mussels, clams, pipis, cockles and wedge shells.

Abalone, scallop roes and the intestines and livers of rock lobster can also be affected.

Seafood in shops and restaurants are safe to eat.