Introduction
Countdown to Scotland’s new technical measures and tough US rules
AT the recent presentation of its Q3 results, Bergen based Mowi said it had a target of zero fish escapes and was constantly striving to improve methods, equipment and procedures that can minimise or eliminate incidents. The goals of the world’s biggest salmon farmer will be shared by all producers, whatever their size; losing fish is expensive, both economically and in terms of public perception, with the potential impacts on the environment under close scrutiny.
Scotland’s record on escapes has been relatively static over the past few years; in 2019, up to mid-October, there had been 41,037 reported escapes (the majority in one event).
This figure did not include a still to be confirmed total (of hundreds rather than thousands) at one farm. And there were still two months of the year to go.
But it compares favourably to last year’s total of around 53,000. In 2017, there were approximately 31,000 escapes, and just over 11,000 the year before.
The numbers are still small considering the volumes farmed overall – 156,025 tonnes of salmon in 2018, and an expected 190,000 tonnes this year – but containment remains a priority for farmers.
Since the 2015 publication of the Scottish Technical Standard- designed to help prevent escapes of finfish as a result of technical failure and related issues- farmers and suppliers have been working towards improving containment measures.
However, although the standard is due to be implemented next year, there is still a lot of work to do, according to those involved in the Containment Working Group.
In our special containment feature, we talk to the new chair of the group, Anne Anderson of the Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation, about recent progress. And we hear from some of the leaders in the supply chain.
Just as pressing is the need to address US legislation banning any food imports that do not meet that country’s strict animal welfare standards.
Scotland, and all other salmon producing nations, have until the beginning of 2022 to come into line with the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). To do so, farmers must stop shooting seals.
While such lethal means are used as a last resort by farmers, and only under government licence, there is no grey area in the American legislation, which insists on zero tolerance.
We investigate advances in anti-predation technology, particularly in acoustic deterrent devices, which are also under increasing regulatory scrutiny.
“According to those involved in the Containment Working Group, there is do” still a lot to