Site Optimisation for Aquaculture Operations

The Strategic Framework for Scottish Aquaculture emphasises the need for location and siting to take account of environmental capacity, the proximity of areas designated under the EU habitats Directive, the proximity of important habitat and major migratory routes for salmon and seatrout, and potential for exchange of sealice, disease, and ecological and genetic interactions. While scientific understanding of all these issues remains limited, there is nonethless a need to make strategic decisions, using a precautionary approach where necessary. As the industry becomes increasingly competitive the economic comparative advantage of different locations and sites also becomes critical. This study will contribute to more informed, effective and objective decision making by drawing together and summarizing relevant information and analysis, reviewing existing criteria and protocols for location and siting, and recommending a comprehensive set of objective criteria - bringing together social, economic and environmental dimensions.