Socioeconomic Aspects of Sea Cage Salmon Farming in the Maritimes

Abstract

Commercial salmon farming in the Maritimes shows potential as a source of rural employment, growth, and foreign exchange. Canada lags behind most advanced countries in developing its aquaculture industry; Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) might be one species in which Canada has a comparative advantage and in which Canada's late start might be overcome. This paper evaluates sea pen salmon culture by a number of criteria, including financial feasibility, and concludes that salmon farming can be profitable, contribute to growth, absorb labour, and earn foreign exchange. A final section explores policy options available to governments and to private sector producers.