ENDORSING SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE

Endorsing Sustainable Aquaculture, AFS and Washington State Move Forward

In a recent communique forwarded by Dr. Richard Beamish to the McColl Magazine, a letter from the American Fisheries Society (AFS) to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources outlines a compelling endorsement of aquaculture as a sustainable and economically beneficial practice.

The correspondence, dated November 7, 2024, addresses proposed modifications to Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 332-30, highlighting the critical role aquaculture plays in addressing both environmental and economic challenges in fisheries management.

The Case for Aquaculture

AFS, the world’s oldest and largest professional society of fisheries scientists, emphasised its support for well-regulated commercial finfish net pen aquaculture. The organisation noted that aquaculture offers a solution to the increasing demand for fish that wild fisheries cannot sustainably meet.

With the global appetite for seafood growing (as underscored by the Food and Agriculture Organization in 2024), aquaculture presents an opportunity to reduce pressure on wild fish stocks, improve domestic seafood security and bolster local economies.

Addressing Misconceptions

The letter directly addresses common misconceptions about net pen aquaculture, particularly regarding environmental impact:

1. Parasites and Disease Transmission
   AFS highlights that while parasite and disease transmission between farmed and wild fish is a two-way interaction, studies show such impacts are typically minor and localized. The risks can be mitigated using local-origin stocks and routine pathogen testing.
2. Escaped Fish and Genetic Concerns
   Despite media narratives, there is no scientific evidence of escaped farmed salmon adversely affecting the genetic diversity of wild stocks. Advances in recapture strategies and the tendency of farmed fish to avoid interaction with wild populations minimise risks.
3. Environmental Footprint
   Proper siting of farms and adherence to best management practices ensure minimal degradation of surrounding ecosystems. AFS cites advancements in feed technology, disease management and nutrient discharge control as key factors that have reduced environmental impacts over the past few decades.

A Balanced Approach

The letter underscores the importance of balancing environmental protection with economic and food security considerations. With proper regulatory oversight, aquaculture can sustainably address the nation’s growing seafood demands while alleviating dependency on imports. Furthermore, net pen aquaculture provides economic opportunities for waterfront communities, a point emphasised by AFS’s Western Division.

Recommendations to Washington State

AFS urges Washington’s Aquatic Resources Division to preserve opportunities for environmentally responsible aquaculture on state-owned lands. Their recommendation rests on a foundation of modern science, technological advancements, and informed management strategies. By allowing net pen aquaculture to grow under strict regulatory practices, Washington has the opportunity to lead in sustainable aquaculture development.

The Path Forward

Dr. Beamish’s forwarding of this letter serves as a reminder of the potential synergy between science, policy and industry. As Washington considers modifying WAC 332-30, the insights provided by AFS highlight the viability of aquaculture as a tool for sustainable fisheries management.

In an era of growing environmental awareness and seafood demand, the collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders can chart a course for aquaculture to thrive responsibly—benefiting ecosystems, economies, and communities alike.

Visit the McColl Magazine to read the letter in full