March 29, 2007

Canada invests in aquaculture sustainability

Canada is investing US$331,256 to the Northern Ontario Aquaculture Association (NOAA) to support long-term sustainability planning Tony Clement, Minister of Northern Ontario announced.

The funding would also be used for a two-year research project aimed at developing fertilizer from fish scraps.

Canada is pleased to support these innovative projects that will help both the local economy and the environment, said Minister Clement.

Aquaculture operators will save money on waste disposal and transportation costs by diverting waste from landfill sites to create an environmentally friendly product.

The Northern Ontario Aquaculture Association will use US$226,800 to support the organization's operating costs and to complete an economic impact study.

The remaining fund would be directed toward experiments with production methods and mixture consistencies to create a quality composted soil.

This funding will also support market research to test the fertilizer product's safety and effectiveness.

Mike Meeker, board president of the Northern Ontario Aquaculture Association said these initiatives would help strengthen the industry and may lead to healthier top soils, improved crop production and reduced landfill costs.

By supporting the Northern Ontario Aquaculture Association through its programmes and services, FedNor is opening doors and building futures for a prosperous Northern Ontario.