James Lunney, M.P. Announces Funding for Aquaculture Projects
February 27, 2009
Nanaimo, B.C.— Two innovation projects designed to boost the productivity and economic performance of the shellfish aquaculture industry in B.C. have received more than $163,000 in federal funding through the Government of Canada’s Aquaculture Innovation and Market Access Program (AIMAP).“Our Government’s goal with AIMAP is to encourage the aquaculture sector to develop and adopt innovative technologies and management techniques,” said Nanaimo-Alberni MP James Lunney, who made the announcement on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Minister Gail Shea. “When we invest in our aquaculture industry, we are investing in improved environmental performance and productivity, as well as sustainable jobs in British Columbia today and for years to come.”
Under AIMAP, the federal government is investing $23.5 million over the next five years to support the development of a vibrant and sustainable Canadian aquaculture industry that contributes to the economies of rural, coastal and First Nations communities.
These two recent AIMAP projects, being led by Vancouver Island University’s (VIU) Centre for Shellfish Research and Below Sea Level Oyster Co., include work to develop a prototype for a new shellfish raft design, test it, and introduce it to the industry at large; and to test a predatory Red Rock crab deterrent method that is non-lethal and cost-effective.
AIMAP’s overall goal is to support Canadian aquaculture and encourage innovation investments in this industry. Funding provided through the program will help recipients plan, manage and complete projects designed to enhance the productivity, economic viability and potential of the aquaculture industry in Canada, as well as to produce a healthy and nutritious food source.
Please visit the following website for more information on DFO’s aquaculture program and the AIMAP application process: www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/aquaculture/sustainable-durable/innovation-eng.htm. For more information on the projects announced today, please view the media backgrounder on these initiatives.
Backgrounder:
Two Aquaculture Innovation Projects
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FOR MORE INFORMATION
Michelle Imbeau
Fisheries and Oceans Canada,
Pacific Region
(604) 666-2872
Leri Davies
Fisheries and Oceans Canada,
Pacific Region
(604) 666-8675
NR-PR-09-05E
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