News Release Archive
FISHERIES--REPORTS RELEASED ------------------------------------------------------------ Nova Scotia mussel growers will benefit from a set of recently published reports evaluating environmentally friendly cotton mussel socks, Fisheries Minister Jim Barkhouse said today. The study on dissolvable mussel socks was prepared in conjunction with the Nova Scotia Research Foundation Corporation. The reports present results from field experiments using different types and sizes of cotton socks. "Growth trials have shown that this type of socking will work in Nova Scotia. Both Spain and New Zealand, two leading mussel producing countries, use this method and we should explore opportunities for using it here," said the minister. Cotton socks are of similar construction to the plastic version now used by most Nova Scotia growers. Aquaculturists fill mesh tubes with small mussels and hang them vertically in the water column from a long line which is supported by floats. However, since the cotton sock will dissolve, they require a cord placed down the center to support the mussels as they grow. "Cotton socks offer several potential advantages over traditional socks," said project engineer Chuck McKenna. He said that the cotton sock will eliminate disposal problems with plastic mesh, plus the mussels and mud that remain inside the sock. "The central cord of the cotton sock is reusable and the cotton simply breaks apart and dissolves as the mussels grow out." Mr. McKenna said the cotton sock could also improve production. "Compared with the traditional plastic socks used here, it lends itself more to automation. This would cut down on labor costs and increase production," he said. Mussel farmers are being encouraged to read the reports and determine for themselves if the methods now used in Spain and New Zealand would benefit their businesses. Aquaculturists will find that the materials and equipment used in these countries are commercially available in Canada. Copies of the reports are available from the Technology and Inspection Division, Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries, P.O. Box 2223, Halifax, N.S., B3J 3C4, 902-424-4560. -30- Contact: Diane Kenny 902-424-0308 trp Jan. 31, 1996 - 8:37 a.m.