Listen
New approach to siting fish farms
17/01/2008
A new group is to be tasked with developing a new approach to the siting of fish farms around Scotland.
They will examine how best to maximize the use of our coastline in a sustainable way to help an already valuable industry expand further.
Minister for Environment Michael Russell:
"Aquaculture has become a vitally important industry to Scotland, generating £350 million per year to our economy.
"However, there is considerable untapped potential on our shores, and with Scotland already famous for its salmon, we should take advantage of this opportunity.
"We must of course ensure, that further development of the industry is carried out in a sustainable manner and that will be a fundamental remit of the group.
"The Expert Group that I am announcing today will be made up of key interested parties and I look forward to considering their recommendations later in the year."
Invited Membership of the Expert Group to Develop a Rational Approach to the siting of Aquaculture Facilities in Scotland includes:
- Scottish Government Marine Directorate
- Scottish Government Planning Directorate
- Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)
- Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH)
- Fisheries Research Services (FRS)
- Scottish Association for Marine Science
- Association of Salmon Fishery Boards / Association of Scottish River & Fishery Management Trusts; Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation (SSPO); Shetland Aquaculture; Federation of Scottish Aquaculture Producers
- Environment LINK
- Convention of Scottish Local Authorities
- Highlands and Islands Enterprise
- Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers (ASSG)
- British Trout Association
- The Crown Estate
- Scottish Fishermen's Federation
- Scottish Inshore Fisheries Advisory Group
- Northern Lighthouse Board
- Marine and Coastguard Agency
- Institute of Aquaculture, Stirling University