Aquaculture site selection

Many of the issues associated with the aquaculture sector are a result of poor spatial planning. The suitability of a location for aquaculture is determined by many factors including biological, environmental, social and regulatory issues. Furthermore, other activities will be competing for space and resources so not all areas are available for aquaculture. Site selection is the identification of the most appropriate location to establish an aquaculture system. Once the site has been selected, the aquaculture producer will then perform more detailed assessments as part of the licensing process. Based on the information provided in the application, the relevant decision makers will determine if a license should be granted or not. Therefore, it is important to remember that site selection is the start of the licensing process and does not guarantee that aquaculture will be permitted in that specific area.