British Columbia Salmon Farmers Association | 7
a focus on prevention of disease on the
farms ... and then, an active coordinated
management plan in the rare event of an
outbreak. Ensuring that we share informa-
tion, knowledge and communicate to our
members gives our farmers the tools they
need to make informed decisions. And of
course the addition of a good solid com-
munications strategy for the general pub-
lic provides understanding of our farm
practices,” says Walling.
Other initiatives have helped negate
concern over the potential of farmed fish
escaping into the wild, as Walling affirms,
this was a major concern when the in-
dustry was just starting. “We tackled the
problem by investing in superior farming
systems, installing stronger nets and pred-
ator netting. We improved anchoring and
farm-sites, and spent a lot of time devel-
oping and instituting escape prevention
plans as well as escape response plans
for every farm. Finally, and most impor-
tant, we invested in our employees, and
educated our staff,” says Walling, while
indicating that in the time since, escapes
have significantly reduced. “Our goal is
to eliminate them entirely,” she adds.
With the help of the BCSFA, salmon
farming techniques have dramatically im-
proved over the last thirty years, and the
industry continues to maintain a strong
culture that thrives on innovation and
constant improvement. Walling says the
