PROJECTS

Department of Fisheries and Oceans - Operational Statements

Blue Revolution was contracted by The Habitat Branch of Fisheries and Oceans Canada in the spring of 2006 to conduct a review of environmental effects of shellfish culture activities as practiced in British Columbia and to identify draft best management practices for avoiding HADDs to fish habitat.

The result of this review was the development of Operational Statements (OS) for shellfish aquaculture based on scientifically sound Risk Management Framework. The new Statements are part of the overall Environmental Process Modernization Plan; meant to streamline the review process and provide an improved level of efficiency to applicants and improved habitat management policies and implementation thereof.

The new management tools identify up-front the mitigation measures needed to prevent the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) to fish habitat for routine low risk activities in or near water. If applicants can meet all of the conditions and measures outlined in the OS they can proceed with their works without DFO review. Prior to commencement of activities DFO requires notification (10 days in advance) for all new structures or alterations of previously installed components. Proponents who are unable to incorporate all of the measures are required to contact DFO staff for consult on the possible options that will bring them into compliance with the Fisheries Act. All proponents are asked to maintain a copy of the OS and Notifcation Form at the work site.

Currently draft Operational Statements have been developed for: 1) On and near bottom shellfish aquaculture activities; and 2) Off-bottom deepwater shellfish and kelp aquaculture. A third operational statement for geoduck culture will be released pending current research conducted by Fisheries and Oceans scientists.