September 1, 2008

The new aquaculture site at Haley's Cove which was stocked with juvenile salmon for the first time less than six months ago has completely failed due to strong currents and unsuitable environmental conditions. This site was approved by the province of New Brunswick in spite of strong opposition by Fundy Baykeeper, Conservation Council of New Brunswick, commercial fisherman, and the adjacent community. The first activity at the site occurred this spring when salmon cages were put in place. It appears that strong tidal currents were moving cages and netting and may have lead to extensive fish mortalities at the site. Haley’s Cove is located just east of Chance Harbour on one of the last remaining small sections of undeveloped coastline in the Bay of Fundy. These dark, quiet, uninhabited and undeveloped coves are important to maintaining the ecology of the Bay of Fundy. Baykeeper is hopeful that Haley’s Cove will recover from the affects of this aquaculture site.