Fish Health Protection: A Strategic Role in Canadian Fisheries Management

Abstract
Protection from communicable diseases of salmonid fishes is an important component of fisheries management strategy; experiences in Canada over the past two decades are presented. A comprehensive range of measures was developed to protect the health of salmon and trout resources by minimizing the risk of introducing and disseminating communicable diseases. These measures affect both wild resources and aquaculturc operations. They include national regulations. provincial and regional fish health protection initiatives, and control of potential hazards related to use of live fish for research, manufacture of feeds, importation and production of biologics, and use of drugs and therapeutics. A strengthened research and development capability supported technological innovation and provided the basis for refining regulations and policies. Programs for training and skill development in the prevention, control, and treatment of fish diseases were also expanded. This integrated strategy created a favorable climate for major investments in salmonid farming and its allied industries. It was considered effective in preventing the introduction of some pathogens as yet unrecorded in Canada and in confining pathogens known to occur in Canada within limited geographic distributions. As our understanding of fish pathogens and the diseases they cause continues to build, we expect to focus more in the future on continental concerns, continued refinement of legislation and compliance protocols, and rapid adoption of new technologies.

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