Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) issues licences under Section 56 of the Fishery (General) Regulations to authorize the intentional release and transfer of live aquatic organisms into fish-bearing waters or fish-rearing facilities.
The federal-provincial Introductions and Transfers Committee (ITC) reviews applications to assess risks for possible disease, ecological and genetic effects on native species and ecosystems. When issuing a licence, the ITC may also prescribe certain measures to minimize risks associated with transfer activities, such as egg disinfection or quarantine of stock.
DFO regulates the aquaculture industry in British Columbia so that the introduction and transfer of fish and shellfish into and between facilities does not adversely affect local aquatic species and habitats. Introductions and transfers of fish to and from aquaculture facilities may be required to introduce new stock, facilitate growth of the fish at different life stages or optimize the production capabilities of facilities.