Dr. Paddy Gargan:

Since 2011, the Institute of Marine Research in Norway has been investigating the potential impact of escapes and sea lice on local salmon and sea trout stocks. It has developed a risk-based assessment and is providing figures every year on the likely mortality of wild stocks from existing farms. In a significant number of locations, the risk of mortality to local stocks is high. This allows managers to predict where the impact will be and future plan the industry. Norway is now running with this risk-based assessment and has put in what are known as national salmon fjords in areas where there is a serious problem. Restrictions have been placed on aquaculture and all fish farms must co-ordinate and treat simultaneously. Norway is taking the issue seriously because the official state agencies acknowledge aquaculture has had impacts. It is a very large industry and the country is trying to plan using a risk-based strategy.