The Global Aquaculture Alliance Best Aquaculture Practices program has further expanded its coverage of salmon facilities with the certification of five Marine Harvest Canada salmon farm sites.

"Marine Harvest is a large and highly respected international producer, and we are very pleased to see the ongoing participation of such an industry leader in the BAP program," GAA President Chamberlain said. "It is fitting for the company to demonstrate leadership not only in volume, but also in responsible production practices."

Marine Harvest Canada is British Columbia's largest salmon aquaculture company.

"We are extremely pleased to have achieved this certification milestone, which demonstrates our commitment to environmental integrity and continual improvement throughout our operations," Marine Harvest Sustainability Director Clare Backman said. 

"BAP certification validates that our farming practices protect the environment for local wildlife as well as our fish, while providing a safe and effective working environment for Marine Harvest Canada staff," Paula Galloway, certification manager, said.

In addition to the newly certified sites, third-party BAP audits will be conducted at all remaining Marine Harvest Canada salmon farms. These audits are a first step toward the company's plan to achieve "four-star" BAP status, with certified salmon farms, processing plants, feed mill suppliers and freshwater hatcheries.

BAP certification is based on the international Best Aquaculture Practices standards developed by the Global Aquaculture Alliance, the leading standards-setting organization for aquaculture seafood. For salmon and other major farmed species, BAP requires effective management of animal health, feed inputs, water quality and food safety. In a process that includes site inspections and in-depth audits, social responsibility and traceability are additional requirements