Many of the problems generated by the industrial-scale expansion of the shellfish industry since 1998 have been created by the placing of these large operations in environmentally sensitive locations such as enclosed bays and sand beaches. These areas were used and occupied traditionally by fishermen, residents, small shellfish farmers, boaters, and by coastal tourists. The invasion of these traditional areas (already zoned for residential and recreational uses) by industrial shellfish operations has created many conflicts in coastal communities. The lack of realistic siting criteria to better allow for varied and multiple uses of limited coastal resources is a major shortcoming of this unregulated industry.

There is a fundamental difference in the needs and values of industry and the other users that can only be addressed by separation of uses involving appropriate siting.

For Comparison, The Salmon Farm Aquaculture Review Paper, (Chaper 4, "Salmon Farm Siting Criteria states") : "No salmon farms within the line of site up to 1 km from existing residence(s) or recreational property(ies), unless the proposed farm has the support of the residential/recreational owner(s)."

There is no comparable policy for shellfish operations.

Yet, as Heather Deal states in a Suzuki Foundation Publication on shellfish farming:
"Siting shellfish farms appropriately is the most crucial element in planning a successful operation that minimizes the negative social and environmental impact on the community."