New funding is available for members of the Island aquaculture industry to develop and test innovative ideas and approaches to manage invasive tunicates.
Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Allan Campbell today announced details of the Aquatic Invasive Species Development Fund. The $150,000 fund has been established by the Prince Edward Island Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and the PEI Aquaculture Alliance.
“Members of the Island aquaculture industry are known for their hard work and innovation,” said Minister Campbell. “This development fund will help growers and processors find innovative solutions to manage tunicates – solutions that can be shared across the industry.”
Four species of tunicates have been identified in Prince Edward Island. Tunicates are an invasive or non-native species that attach to mussel lines in some Island bays, making growing and harvesting mussels more difficult and expensive. The mussel industry is an important contributor to the Island economy with a landed value of $23 million and an economic value of approximately $50 million.
Growers, processors and industry organizations are eligible to apply to the Aquatic Invasive Species Development Fund. Eligible projects include innovative equipment and processes. Contracting for specialized services such as those provided by scientists or engineers will also be eligible for consideration.
The deadline for applications to the Aquatic Invasive Species Development Fund is August 10. To receive details on submitting a proposal or for further information, contact Neil MacNair, Manager of Aquaculture with the Prince Edward Island Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture at (902) 368-5615 or ngmacnair@gov.pe.ca, or Art Smith, Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, at (902) 566-6897 or smithah@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.