Aquaculture policy must balance environmental protection, economic realities, community impacts and scientific uncertainty. This article examines the risk of allowing predetermined outcomes or advocacy positions to replace open scientific inquiry, particularly in the debate surrounding salmon aquaculture in British Columbia. Discover why evidence-based policy must remain adaptable as new research changes our understanding of risk and effective mitigation.

What is the true cost of mouth rot to B.C. salmon farming? New economic modelling estimates that bacterial stomatitis could cost the B.C. Atlantic salmon industry USD $10.58 million annually—and the real impact may be even greater.

From earlier diagnostics and vaccine development to functional feeds and better understanding of environmental triggers, the path forward may be less about treating outbreaks and more about preventing them.

Explore what this research means for the future of fish health in B.C. salmon farming.