Marching on
Amonth is a long time in the aquaculture industry, although the pace may seem slow at remote farms. Much happens between one issue of Fish Farmer and the next and the past four weeks have been no exception.
News of a change in management at the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation caught many by surprise. However, chief executive Scott Landsburgh, who announced his retirement, is not leaving immediately, and the new (interim) chair, Gilpin Bradley, is well known in salmon circles, so a level of continuity will be maintained.
More worryingly, the sector has come under renewed attack from a small but vocal group of anti-aquaculture lobbyists. It would be easy to dismiss the bad publicity, especially when it emanates from dubious sources. Nevertheless, a better approach might be to counter the criticism by setting the record straight and telling the story about the importance of this industry, locally and globally. That is easier said than done but, as scientists involved in controversial GM experiments reveal, engaging in debate can help change perceptions (see pages 18-19).
The main focus of our March magazine, though, is the next generation. We look at the development of skills provision that will equip new and existing recruits to work in this industry and lead it through its next phase of growth.