Tasmania Reports Over 5,500 Tonnes of Dead Salmon Waste

More than 5,500 tonnes of salmon mortality waste were documented in Tasmania during February, representing 6 percent of the state’s yearly production.

February’s data shows a significant rise in salmon fatalities, mainly linked to an endemic bacterium and warmer waters.

The Chief Veterinary Officer of Tasmania attributed the higher mortality rates in the lower D’Entrecasteaux Channel to the bacterium Piscirickettsia salmonis (P. salmonis).

Authorities Launch Investigations

Acting CEO and Director of the EPA, Cindy Ong, noted that while increased mortality rates are normal during summer, especially with warmer waters and diseases, the scale of this event is concerning.

Consequently, inspections of facilities receiving this mortality waste have begun.

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is also examining its broader environmental impact, with conclusions expected later this year.

The regulator is specifically looking into the appearance of congealed fish oil on the shores of the southern D’Entrecasteaux Channel following reports from Verona Sands residents on Feb. 16.

The EPA is also assessing whether environmental licenses, waste regulations, and the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 have been violated.

“The EPA has recently imposed new environmental license conditions requiring monthly reports on the total weight of deceased fish from marine finfish farms, with the initial report expected this month,” Ong stated.

These regulations also mandate the prompt removal of dead fish and their transport by a Controlled Waste Transporter to an approved site.

Increasing Pressure on the Salmon Industry

The salmon farming sector is facing mounting pressure, not only from increased mortality but also from legal and environmental hurdles.

Approval for salmon farms in Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania’s west coast is currently under federal review following challenges from environmentalists seeking to protect an endangered fish species they believe is at risk due to the salmon farming industry.

Adding to the concerns, Huon Aquaculture, one of Tasmania’s major salmon producers, is under investigation after a video surfaced showing workers sealing live salmon in a bin. The video triggered an inquiry into potential violations of animal welfare standards by the company.

The RSPCA, which has approved Huon Aquaculture’s operations, deemed the fish handling as “completely unacceptable” and is requesting further information.

An RSPCA spokesperson confirmed that the company’s approval could be in jeopardy.

Political Ramifications of the Salmon Industry Crisis

Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff, a strong supporter of the salmon industry, warned companies to be vigilant.

He stressed the importance of “accountability and transparency” in the industry, emphasizing that maintaining high environmental and animal welfare standards is beneficial for both Tasmania and the industry.

Meanwhile, State Greens MP Vica Bayley raised concerns about reports of salmon residue washing up on the western side of the Huon River, away from the February incidents.

“The environmental issues we are witnessing have significant implications and are impacting the community,” Bayley remarked.

AAP contributed to this article.