The Canadian government has announced CAD 667,000 (USD 530,531, EUR 497,423) in funding to Vancouver Island University for analysis of new technologies to improve shellfish farming in British Columbia.
"Our government recognizes that British Columbia's aquaculture industry is a significant component of the province's economy,” said the Honorable Michelle Rempel, minister of state for western economic diversification. “This project will help address the challenges faced by B.C.'s shellfish producers with the additional benefits of strengthening the sector, creating jobs and supporting Western Canada's economy."
The university may use this funding to try out the latest technology in its operating hatchery at Deep Bay Marine Field Station. Among other areas, researchers are looking to test techniquest to better monitor and mitigate factors that are impeding shellfish seed production, including ocean acidification.
"This funding will allow VIU to provide high quality facilities to conduct relevant community-based research with outcomes that support the University's commitment to our industry and First Nations partners to help develop a thriving economy in our coastal communities,” said Ralph Nilson, the university’s president and vice-chancellor.
