Fisheries evolution: aquaculture as a means to support displaced harvesters and rejuvenate rural economies in Newfoundland and Labrador

The fishing industry has always played an important role in the socioeconomic stability of Newfoundland and Labrador. This is not surprising when one takes into account the biological sociological, and economic constraints placed on early settlers. However, as a result, current demographic changes are significantly affected by changes in the capture fishery and outport communities throughout this province are seeing increased levels of outmigration and even the loss of their local work force. This paper examined how the aquaculture industry is affecting the socioeconomic climate in two locations in Newfoundland and Labrador (the Green Bay and the Coast of Bays areas) in an attempt to determine how effective it may be in helping reduce outmigration and rejuvenating outport communities. A questionnaire was developed and community leaders and individuals involved in the aquaculture industry were interviewed. It was felt that the aquaculture industry, in the areas studied, was providing a significant source of employment and was helping revitalize local communities. In conclusion, it is believed that while the aquaculture industry will not be able to reduce outmigration in all outport communities, it is a viable option for several communities in addition to the fishery