Nova Scotia launches mapping tool to guide aquaculture development

The province says there’s a new tool that can help identify strong areas for aquaculture development.

The Fisheries Department says a new mapping tool helps determine whether coastal areas are suitable for aquaculture.

It’s called the Coastal Classification System, a provincewide tool that includes data such as water depth and temperature, and proximity to protected areas and navigation routes.

“Aquaculture is a key economic growth opportunity for Nova Scotia,” said Kent Smith, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “Access to scientific data provides the aquaculture industry greater confidence in choosing suitable areas for aquaculture development, supporting responsible growth and contributing to coastal communities.”

The department says the tool will help show where developers may face more or fewer challenges. Specifically, it rates suitability for oysters, mussels, salmon and trout.

“Data sets and information resources are key for decision-making in business, and the aquaculture business is no different. This new coastal classification tool pulls together a number of these technical resources and starts to inform someone looking to start or expand an existing aquaculture business in Nova Scotia. Choosing the best accessible, growing areas for our farms is part of responsible, sustainable growth in aquaculture. And it means putting meals on the tables of Nova Scotians for years to come,” said Jeff Bishop, executive director of the Aquaculture Association of Nova Scotia.

The government says the tool is only meant to support early planning and will not replace the aquaculture licensing process, which includes public input.

Finfish farmers requirement

Another change the province is asking some farmers to detail how they are beneficial to the communities.

Smith has sent a letter to the five current finfish aquaculture licence holders, asking them to identify how they contribute to their communities and the province.

Smith says the government has a responsibility to ensure Nova Scotia and Nova Scotians benefit from natural resources, and that development must be done responsibly. The province says the letter specifically asks about the social and economic contributions the companies make in the areas where they operate.

This is a new requirement that will apply to all marine finfish licence holders.

In 2023, Nova Scotia’s aquaculture sector was valued at $120 million and employed almost 800 people. Finfish accounted for about 89 per cent of that total.