Goals and Objectives

The Association works under the principle that B.C.'s coastal resources must be developed and exploited in a sustainable manner. They should be shared and protected for the benefit of all people, communities, natural wildlife, businesses, boaters and other users, keeping in mind the importance of a healthy environment and of planning for balanced development now and in the future. Since unregulated placement and operations of shellfish aquaculture can have an injurious effect on all of the other inhabitants and users of the coastal area, it is imperative that current and future shellfish development only proceed on the basis of well-constructed scientific studies and be consonant with the rights of local communities to control industrial and commercial developments within their jurisdictions.

Goals:

  • To ensure that B.C. produces healthy and safe shellfish from its waters, and that shellfish are grown with respect for the environment and community values.
  • To ensure aquaculture development is consistent with both Regional Districts and Islands Trust Official Community Plans.
  • To ensure that any shellfish operations are of suitable size and nature so as to minimize adverse impacts on the local ecology. This entails:
    • Conducting unbiased and adequate impact assessments;
    • Examining the effects of already existing shellfish operations;
    • Critically examining the introduction of exotic species and their effects.
  • To ensure that shellfish operations are sustainable and that that industry controls its debris at its source (degraded styrofoam, plastic cord, piping, trays, bags), AND that complete site cleanup is undertaken when operations cease or change hands.
  • To ensure equitable allocation of coastline use for residential, recreational, and aquaculture interests, and to ensure that aquaculture development respects pre-existing residential, recreational, and local business rights and interests. Specifically, industrial operations should not be sited adjacent to environmentally sensitive, residential, or recreational areas.