Update on Extreme Weather Impact on Fish Mortalities

Fisheries and Aquaculture staff have completed their initial visits to aquaculture sites in Nova Scotia. Preliminary results suggest extreme cold weather is to blame for the fish mortalities.

The numbers of fish lost is not yet known. The losses include salmon and trout in several locations.

The dead fish are being properly removed and disposed of.

The department was informed that in two cases, net pens were damaged and dead fish were released. The nets have since been repaired and there is no evidence live fished escaped.

"This rare act of nature is very unfortunate. This is one of the coldest winters we've experienced," said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Keith Colwell. "Our department will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure everything that can be done is being done."