I'm Gwen Outen with the VOA Special English Agriculture Report.
Most fish farming involves fresh water fish. 85 percent of aquaculture in the United States is
done in rivers and lakes. Production at sea mostly involves shellfish
harvested close to shore. But a proposed American law could greatly
increase ocean aquaculture. It would permit fish farming up to 320
kilometers from shore. The bill is called the National Offshore
Aquaculture Act of 2005. The administration of President Bush sent the
measure to Congress on June 7th.
Fishing laws limit the size and time of year of harvests. The propose
changes would define aquaculture harvesting as something other than
fishing. The Secretary of Commerce would gain the power to sell 10-year
permits to operate ocean farms. Production would take place within waters
called the exclusive economic zone. Foreign companies could buy the
permits if they have an American business agent.
The secretary could also establish the environmental requirements if
existing ones are not enough. Some experts say more fish farming could
help wild populations recover from over fishing. But critics say strong
rules are needed so fish farms do not threaten the environment or wild
fish populations. Fishermen's groups worry about possible effects on
traditional fisheries.
Pollution is a concern. Also farmed fish can escape into wild
populations, and farmed fish are fed wild court fish. Conrad Lautenbacher
heads the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in the Commerce
Department. He says the goal is to balance the needs of fishermen, coastal
areas, seafood consumers, the environment and the aquaculture industry.
Demand for seafood is increasing. There are strong economic reasons for
the United States to increase its aquaculture operations. The nation
imports about 70 percent of its seafood, much of it farm-raised. The
National Marine Fishery Service says the seafood trade deficit is 8,000
million dollars.
Internationally, the ocean aquaculture industry is growing. Fish such
as cod, flounder, and even tuna are being raised. These fish
bring higher prices than more commonly farmed seafood. The most commonly
farmed fish is the carp and the world's biggest aquaculture producer is
China.
This VOA Special English Agriculture Report was written by Mario
Ritter. Our reports are online at voaspecialenglish.com. I'm Gwen
Outen. |