A new salmon interactions workstream to provide expert advice on mitigating pressures on wild salmon has been launched by the Scottish Government.
As part of the workstream, a working group has been established to examine, as an initial task, the interactions between farmed and wild salmon, and make recommendations on how any associated impacts can be minimised. It will be chaired independently by John Goodlad, currently chairman of Fisheries Innovation Scotland.
Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said: “I am delighted to launch the Salmon Interactions Workstream and Working Group. John Goodlad will bring a wealth of experience to his role as Chair, and the membership of the group will ensure that industry and relevant stakeholders are well represented as we look at how we can ensure a sustainable and thriving future for both farmed and wild salmon.”
Mr Goodlad said: “I welcome the opportunity to help drive forward discussions between the aquaculture and wild fishery sectors. “
Membership of the working group will come from the aquaculture and wild fisheries sectors, Marine Scotland, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage.
Both the Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation and Fisheries Management Scotland have welcomed the group’s establishment and remit.
