Marine mammal interactions at British Columbia marine finfish aquaculture sites

Marine mammal predator control is governed by the Marine Mammal Regulations under the Fisheries Act. Records of marine mammal mortalities are maintained and results reported publicly. Additional licences can be obtained for control of other species.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada works with industry to improve marine mammal deterrent and control measures. At present, the most common system includes anti-predator netting that surrounds the facility structure on all sides and from below. Fisheries and Oceans Canada biologists conduct site audits and inspections to ensure that licence holders are complying with their licence conditions and implementing elements of their predator management plans. Aquaculture facilities must report marine mammal fatalities to Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Data and Resources

Additional Info

Field Value
Last Updated April 17, 2026, 20:23 (UTC)
Created April 17, 2026, 20:23 (UTC)
contact_email DFO.PAC.AquacultureData-Donneesdaquaculture.PAC.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
contact_person {"en": "Government of Canada; Fisheries and Oceans Canada; Aquaculture, Communications,,DFO.PAC.AquacultureData-Donneesdaquaculture.PAC.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca", "fr": "Gouvernement du Canada; Pêches et Océans Canada; Aquaculture, Communications,,DFO.PAC.AquacultureData-Donneesdaquaculture.PAC.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca"}
criticality_level []
data_dictionary ["environment", "oceans"]
geographic_scope ["5"]
open_canada_collection primary
open_canada_date_modified 2025-07-08 00:00:00
open_canada_date_published 2023-03-15 00:00:00
open_canada_keywords {"en": ["Aquaculture", "Fish farming", "Fisheries and Oceans Canada", "Pacific region", "marine mammals", "predator management", "British Columbia", "BC"], "fr": ["Aquaculture", "Pisciculture", "Pêches et Océans Canada", "Région du Pacifique", "installations piscicoles", "plan de gestion des prédateurs", "Colombie-Britannique", "C.-B."]}
open_canada_subject ["nature_and_environment"]
sensitivity_level unrestricted
title_fr Les interactions avec des mammifères marins aux sites d'aquaculture de poissons marins de la Colombie-Britannique
update_frequency as_needed