February 28, 2005

Realizing that their industry was in need of renewal, both financially and in public perception, a far-sighted group of fish farmers established the Northern Ontario Aquaculture Association (NOAA) in 2000 to promote regional unity and a common vision for fresh-water aquaculture operators in Northern Ontario.

The NOAA was created by 13 northern fish farmers and processors who decided that their voices were not being heard, and that it was time to step up and fight for their industry.  They came together, formed an association, and elected Mike Meeker, a Manitoulin fish farmer, their first President.  “There is so much misinformation about aquaculture being spread about by environmental groups, it is high time to take the offensive,” Meeker said in his first speech as President.

The cage-culture aquaculture operators in Northern Ontario participated in a regional strategic planning exercise in the early stages.  The strategic plan recognized that a focus on issues directly related to promotion of freshwater aquaculture would result in the stimulation of the economy in their communities.  And ironically, the sustainability of their industry would depend on co-operation from those who were former competitors.

Since those early stages, the NOAA has worked hard to dispel the many myths associated with the industry.  It has affected the economic well-being of the community significantly by creating jobs for 150 people.  In recent years, northern cage-raised rainbow trout has accounted for 77 per cent of total provincial production, at a farm gate value of $15 million.

In the association’s initial stages, it received start up money from both FedNor and the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.  To get on its feet, the NOAA decided to use its funds to hire a full-time coordinator.  With her assistance, they launched a public education campaign to dispel the myths surrounding the industry (in part, by having seven educational trade show booths), promoted their products both domestically and internationally, and sponsored events throughout the region.  The NOAA has also been responsible for initiating numerous meetings to bring all regulatory agencies together with industry and other public interest groups.  In 2003, the NOAA received funding from the LAMBAC Community Futures Development Corporation to advance its operations.

The future looks bright for the NOAA.  An economic impact study of Northern Ontario’s aquaculture industry will be conducted in 2005, and a youth intern will be hired this summer to promote the industry in local communities.  This initiative will help ensure sustainable rural living in Northern Ontario.