Offshore Fish Farming Plan Passes

The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council voted 11-5 in favor of allowing fish farms to be built, despite the objections of fishermen and environmentalists.

Before construction begins, the Council will forward their plan to the Secretary of Commerce for review and approval.

Dr. George Crozier, Director of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab says commercial fishers are concerned.
"There is resistance from the commercial fishing industry, which probably see it in the way of a troller, but they are competing with them in the market themselves."

Ladon Swann with Auburn Universities Shellfish lab says commercial fishers need to catch on to the idea.
"Whether it's in my lifetime or my childrens' lifetime, we ultimately will need to have aquaculture. I think it's important for everyone to get involved."

But competition is not the only concern. Some people worry whether fish farms will harm the environment.
Crozier adds, "The concerns are the impact of the farm itself, in terms of waste production, energy consumption. Is it truly efficient as a food source? These questions for the Gulf haven't been answered."

Casi Calloway with Mobile Baykeeper released this statement to me this afternoon:

"Mobile Baykeeper believes aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico could create a serious threat to water quality and the health of our natural fisheries. There is too little data, research and information for the Gulf Council to make an informed decision that would protect the Gulf for future generations and it appears the Council does not have the authority to make this decision presently.
We support commercial and recreational fisheries and do not want to see them impacted through ill-informed decision-making."