CERMAQ Canada, a salmon farming company, has responded to reports of a large number of herring being killed during a mechanical delousing operation in British Columbia last year. The company acknowledged that there was a rise in wild Pacific herring at its farms on the west coast of Vancouver Island in 2022, which required immediate action. Cermaq worked closely with the Ahousaht First Nation to address the incident and has seen a significant reduction of 94.6% in incidental Pacific herring catch in 2023 compared to 2022.
Despite the company’s efforts to address the issue, the incident has received negative media attention, with conservation groups expressing concerns. Cermaq Canada expressed disappointment in the unbalanced media coverage, which failed to mention the positive results achieved in 2023. The incident was reported to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and the Ahousaht First Nation, as required by their Conditions of License.
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Cermaq Canada emphasized its commitment to area-based management, innovation, and technology adoption in its operations. The company has a protocol agreement with the Ahousaht First Nation, which includes strict environmental standards and compliance reporting requirements. The Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society (MHSS), along with the Ahousaht First Nation, has direct oversight of Cermaq’s operations in Clayoquot Sound.
The incident serves as an example of the salmon farming industry’s dedication to sustainable growth through transformative innovation. Cermaq Canada highlighted the importance of investing in innovative technologies and mitigation strategies, which take time to develop and implement. The company emphasized the collaborative working relationship with its Indigenous partners and the continual improvement of operations.
In conclusion, CERMAQ Canada has taken immediate action to address the rise in wild Pacific herring at its farms. The company’s collaboration with the Ahousaht First Nation has resulted in a significant reduction in incidental herring catch. Cermaq Canada remains committed to sustainable practices and building strong relationships with Indigenous communities as it continues to grow in the future.
