September 23, 2013 — Monday marks the start of British Columbia's Aquaculture Awareness Week, on Vancouver Island – an annual event aimed at raising awareness of the industry and providing the chance to thank the thousands of hard-working men and women who make the industry a success.
"Our members work every day to contribute to their communities – and yet, there are many things people don't know about aquaculture," said Mary Ellen Walling, Executive Director of the BC Salmon Farmers Association. "Our goal during this week each year is to focus on building the understanding and pride in one of the key drivers for rural and coastal communities in BC."
Campbell River and Port Hardy councils have approved proclamations for Aquaculture Awareness Week, following requests by the BCSFA. The proclamations recognize the important role that aquaculture – particularly salmon farming – plays in both communities and the BCSFA's goal of better educating the public about their members' operations and opportunities.