The Marine Research Institute (MRI) has recently carried out an updated risk assessment and set a figure of 105,000 tonnes, most of which is to be salmon. This compares with the MRI’s earlier maximum of 71,000 tonnes. However, with salmon farming in Iceland at a relatively recent development stage, it may be some while yet before the new figure is reached. Fish farming in Iceland is generally restricted to two main areas of the country, the Westfjords and the eastern region. The new figure for the Westfjords has been set at 61,500 tonnes, compared with 50,000 tonnes in the previous recommendation. The two busiest communities are currently Arnarfjordur and Tálknafjörður, and Patreksfjörður (both 20,000 tonnes apiece). The east fjords have been allowed to double output to 42,000 tonnes, with the main beneficiaries being Berufjörður (7,500 tonnes), Fáskrúðsfjörður (12,000 tonnes), and Reyðarfjörður (16,000 tonnes) – along with 6,500 tonnes in the old fishing port of Seyðisfjörður.
- Fish Farmer -