High hopes

When we started putting this issue together we knew it would be a memorable one because of the expected launch, at the end of October, of the industry’s eagerly awaited Vision 2030 report. What we didn’t know, almost until it happened, was that Scotland’s biggest salmon farmer was to receive a royal visit during the month.

Prince Charles was welcomed by staff at Marine Harvest in Loch Leven, and later by others in the sector for what sounded like a very productive meeting, during a tour that could not have been better timed. The Prince’s interest in two particular aspects of fish farming - the use of cleaner fish to fight sea lice and the drive towards ASC standards - comes just as the industry has produced its own proposals to develop aquaculture in Scotland, based on economic and environmental sustainability.

The next few months should see the consequences of both these hugely significant events. The industry will be hoping its recommendations for expansion are met with a quick and favourable response from the government, and that the involvement of Charles will help raise the sector’s profile and do much to improve its social licence.

For these reasons, and despite the many challenges that remain, this could well be the beginning of an exciting new era for Scottish aquaculture.