| The growth of the Nova Scotia (NS) salmonid aquaculture industry has been accompanied by a substantial increase in the public's concern for environmental health and sustainability. Concerns have resulted from waste (feed and faceal matter) discharges, chemical use, and interactions between cultured and native species. User conflicts and jurisdictional disputes also impede industry development. Consequently, the NS aquaculture industry is being challenged to respond to concerns by developing more effective and efficient ways to address its relationship with the environment and social community.;A case study of a NS aquafarm was used to advance the understanding of the issues that arise in response to salmonid aquaculture. The minutes of public meetings held in response to opposition over the establishment of, or lease renewal of, aquaculture sites in the province were also summarized. An investigation of the management tools currently available to the industry was undertaken to identify elements that can reconcile environmental and social concerns. Furthermore, environmental management strategies of other natural resource sectors were investigated to identify elements that may usefully be adopted by the aquaculture industry.;All findings were integrated into an environmental management framework for the NS aquaculture industry. The framework details how various parties can apply management strategies to help the aquaculture industry overcome its major challenges and obstacles. Collectively, the activities included in the framework may help reconcile the needs of the aquaculturists, regulators, communities and the environment. |
