Strategic Framework for Seaweed Cultivation Pilot

The Regional District of Mount Waddington is seeking proposals for the preparation of a Strategic Framework for a site-specific seaweed cultivation initiative that will assess the economic viability and environmental sustainability of a pilot project at the preferred site in the region.  The Strategic Framework will focus on the cultivation of kelp and will be overseen by a taskforce planning committee jointly chaired by the Regional District of Mount Waddington (RDMW) and the Quatsino First Nation (QFN); in whose traditional territory the preferred site will be established. 

The primary objectives of the Strategic Framework are:
 

To examine the economic and operational viability of a kelp seaweed cultivation operation with consideration to Quatsino First Nation cultural values, site selection, regulatory issues, capital and labour requirements, processing, marketing and distribution issues. To develop an environmental impact assessment plan that will evaluate the short-, medium- and long-term environmental impact of kelp cultivation, including potential effects on benthic communities, water quality, and other marine life, at the preferred site and adjacent waters and to identify mitigation strategies.