For Immediate Release
Soyfarmers meet fish famers in Campbell River
Over 60 representatives from the US Soybean Export Council are visiting the Campbell River area this week, to learn more about one of their key markets: Aquaculture.
"We're really happy that this organization has come to our home community in such strong numbers to learn more about what their product provides to coastal British Columbia," said Mary Ellen Walling, Executive Director of the BC Salmon Farmers Association.
In the interest of sustainability, fish feed producers are continually researching ways to make the most efficient product for salmon farms. One way they've been able to reduce their reliance on fishmeal and fish oil is by incorporating soy into the food. It's an alternative that's receiving increased global attention as the world's aquaculture industry continues to expand.
As part of their Soy in Aquaculture project, the US Soybean Export Council (USSEC) invited Walling to Alabama last year to present at their annual conference.
Her promotion of Campbell River led to this year's event being held at Painter's Lodge. Their visit will include regular business meetings, as well as farm tours for the group and of course, some fishing.
"This is a great way to connect the different levels of this industry, and to highlight north Vancouver Island to visitors from around the world," said Walling.
For more information about USSEC, visit www.ussec.org , or about the BC salmon farming industry, visit www.salmonfarmers.org.
The BC Salmon Farmers Association represents the 6,000 people employed directly or indirectly by the industry. Salmon farming in BC's largest agricultural sector and contributes $800-million to the provincial economy each year.
For more information
Mary Ellen Walling, Executive Director
BC Salmon Farmers Association
(250) 286-1636 x223
