Economic Impact
Aquaculture in Nova Scotia is an established and growing industry that is becoming an increasingly important economic contributor to rural regions in the province. As expansion continues, there are important socioeconomic impacts for residents, businesses and communities. In some regions where an aquaculture industry is present, there have been significant impacts such as individuals moving into – or back to – rural communities, new housing starts and new business activity.
The aquaculture industry was worth more than $60 million in 2014 and directly employed 606 men and women in full- and part-time positions. At present, there are 44 companies actively farming fish at more than 270 sites in Nova Scotia.
Aquaculture offers employment opportunities on ocean farms, freshwater hatcheries, processing plants, offices, labs, feed mills, net and cage building and maintenance as well as supply and service areas. The aquaculture workforce is young – many workers are under 40.