I am writing in reply to a news story (Morton changes tactics in battle for salmon) and editorial (Want Change? Make it) from the March 6th edition of the North Island Gazette.
It is extremely disappointing to see our community newspaper take a position against a sector that has done so much for the community and is responsible for so many jobs on the North Island.
These same criticisms and misinformation about salmon farming have been repeated by some individuals for years now. There is much science that contradicts many of the claims, so it is unfortunate to see the paper print an article with no rebuttal or facts from qualified experts on the points raised.
It is also disheartening to see our community paper take an editorial stance that only shareholders of fish farming companies benefit from salmon farming in British Columbia when so many local families are dedicated to, and benefit from, this industry. We are hardworking, active members of our community who are proud of the quality product that we help produce. I wasn’t aware that being profitable was considered a bad quality in a business – and I’m quite sure all local businesses (many who advertise in this paper) would agree with me.
The discussion about salmon farming is important, but it is equally important that it is a debate about facts and science, not scare tactics and lies. I would hope that in the future our local paper takes the time to get the facts straight before going to print.
Sickness Claims without Foundation
Colleen Dane, BCSFA, North Island Gazette, March 27, 2014
Re: Morton changes tactics in battle for salmon, March 6, 2014
Erroneous statements made during Alexandra Morton’s recent presentation in Port McNeill – and repeated in the North Island Gazette’s report of the event – need to be corrected for readers and community members.
Claims that sick or diseased fish are introduced to the ocean are entirely false. All smolts are certified as disease free before leaving a hatchery and being introduced to sea cages. BC’s salmon farmers have a proven record of raising very healthy fish – since we need to raise them for nearly two years in the ocean, we wouldn’t have a business if we didn’t.
Suggestions that disease or sea lice from farms have affected wild salmon runs are also false. In fact, Ms. Morton’s own sea lice research has shown that there was no statistical difference on the survival of pink salmon between an area with or without salmon farms. Furthermore, a $26-million scientific inquiry on Fraser River sockeye survival – led by Justice Cohen – reviewed a decade worth of fish health data and found no indication that fish health on farms was affecting sockeye returns.
Unfortunately, Ms. Morton is using misinformation to spread fear about farm-raised salmon. BC’s salmon farmers work hard to ensure they are farming responsibly, and are always willing to answer any questions from the public.
We believe our members are providing a sustainable alternate source of salmon that can help conserve wild salmon stocks and continue to create opportunity to coastal BC communities like Port McNeill and Port Hardy.
Colleen Dane
Communications Manager
Campbell River
BC Salmon Farmers Association
