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April 25, 1997
(Fisheries and Aquaculture)

The following is being distributed at the request of the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association:

Aquaculture Association to hold Annual Conference and Trade Show

The annual conference and trade show of the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association will be held in Gander, April 28-30, 1997. NAIA Executive Director Marc Kielley expects a big turnout for this year's conference.

Close to 300 people are expected from across Newfoundland and other aquaculture producing regions of Canada. Kielley says that, in addition to the local finfish and shellfish aquaculturists there should be a strong representation from business, government, academia, educational institutions and community development agencies.

Plenty of activities are packed into the two day meeting. Registration begins at 1:00 p.m. Monday, April 28 followed by an evening social from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The conference officially starts on April 29 with opening remarks at 8:30 a.m. followed by the keynote address provided by the John Efford, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. Following the keynote address attendees will participate in a series of panel discussions and workshops on current issues of importance to industry members. Each session will feature guest speakers with particular expertise in the topics to be discussed. On the first day the session topics include: Financing Options for Aquaculturists; Finfish Harvesting Techniques and Quality Control Considerations; Seed Supply Considerations for Mussel Culture; User Conflict Avoidance and Resolution Strategies; Crop Diversification Options for Shellfish Growers; and Finfish Health Management. The NAIA will also hold its AGM on the 29th and hold an election of officers for the coming year. From 7:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. an aquaculture buffet is planned followed by entertainment with Newfoundland's Barry Oake.

On Wednesday, April 30 the agenda begins at 8:30 a.m. and runs until 5:00 p.m. Agenda topics range from A Review of Aquaculture Species Development and Research; R & D Tax Credit Program; Using the Internet for Fun and Profit; Mooring Options for Finfish Operations; and Site Access Through Water Quality Testing.

Kielley says that the Trade Show component will feature 29 exhibitors comprising a wide range of companies. "The trade exhibit will enable growers or new entrants to obtain information on supplies, equipment and new technology available and to place orders. The exhibits will also enable participants to obtain information on how to get started in aquaculture; aquaculture financing programs; aquaculture computer information and information on various types of aquaculture equipment and supplies available for farmers and consulting services. In all it should make for a very informative and enjoyable conference."

Contact: Marc Kielley, Executive Director,. (709) 754-2854 (Bus.), (709) 754-2981 (Fax.)

1997 04 25                               4:50 p.m.