Norwegian group visits BC to learn about harmful algae blooms

“We know the Canadians often have algae blooming, so then I got the idea of arranging a study trip to Canada to visit a farm,” said Lars Klungreseth, branch manager for the ocean industries and exports division in the NSA. The NSA is a NGO based in Norway. It acts as a collective voice for Norwegian salmon farmers.

“Our member base consists of small and mid-size seafood companies and many are family owned companies. We did not have any members who were hit by the algae bloom event that took place in northern Norway in May. However, in 1999 an algae bloom event in Norway made a big impact on our industry.”

Companies

The group of 24 delegates includes representation from various companies including Nova Sea( salmon farmer), Sintef Ocean( research organisation), Firda Seafood Group( seafood farmer), Kvarøy Fiskeoppdrett( salmon farmer) and FIAS(supplier) to name a few.

“We will be visiting a Grieg salmon farm located off the coast of Campbell River on Tuesday,” added Klungreseth. “We are excited about the trip and to learn more.”

Grieg had a significant algae bloom event in 2018 which killed over 200,000 salmon in Jervis Inlet which is east of Campbell River. 

Reduce risks

The group of salmon farmers, biologists, scientists and suppliers will “have a presentation day on Wednesday that includes different speakers so that Norwegian farmers can see and learn from Canadian farmers and suppliers. This will help reduce the risk for us and help handle new algae blooms better,” said Klungreseth. 

The group will also learn about local wild salmon stocks in British Columbia. “We will visit the Quinsam River Hatchery to see and learn what they do.” Klungreseth added that the Canadian government works with local communities to help with wild salmon restocking programs something that the Norwegian government has not done.

The group will arrive in Campbell River on Monday and depart on Wednesday.