Fish Farms in St. Mary's Bay

Nova Scotia environmentalists upset by government approval of aquaculture site
(The Canadian Press) – 21 hours ago

HALIFAX — Conservation and community groups are criticizing the Nova Scotia government's approval of a salmon aquaculture project in St. Mary's Bay.

Sterling Belliveau, the minister responsible for aquaculture, approved the commercial operation this week, but residents and environmentalists say they're concerned about its potential to hurt the lobster fishery.

The Ecology Action Centre says there are also worries about the potential for the spread of diseases and parasites to the wild Atlantic salmon population.

Karen Crocker of the St. Mary's Bay Coastal Alliance is also upset because she says Belliveau didn't follow up on some of their concerns before final approval was given.

In an email, Belliveau says he has listened to the various parties and understands their worries for the area off Digby Neck.

He says strict conditions have been placed on the operation and the province will ensure there are no "significant adverse effects" on the environment and fisheries.