Canadian actor William Shatner has entered the fray regarding open-pen salmon farming in British Columbia, delivering a strong message to the Canadian Government. At 93, Shatner didn’t mince words, using explicit language in a video calling for the immediate cessation of open-net salmon farming.
The video is part of a campaign by Pacific Wild, a conservation group opposed to open-net farms, which are set to be phased out by 2029 under a new federal plan announced by Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier. However, both Shatner and Pacific Wild believe this timeline is too slow.
Federal Announcement and Shatner’s Response
Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard, announced this week that open-net salmon farming will be banned in British Columbia’s coastal waters by June 30, 2029.
Meanwhile in this video, Shatner passionately states:
“You know for almost a century, I’ve been a kind, decent Canadian. It’s the Canadian way. But when I see what the open-net salmon farming is doing to the environment and wildlife… I just can’t be Canadian about it any longer! So, repeat after me! F* off open-net pen salmon farms!”
Pacific Wild’s Stance
Pacific Wild argues that open-net pen salmon farms release harmful pathogens, parasites, and pollution into the ocean, impacting wild Pacific salmon and other species such as killer whales, wolves, bears, eagles, and ancient forests. They criticize the five-year extension granted to these farms in Canada, highlighting Prime Minister Trudeau’s unfulfilled 2019 promise to transition away from open-net salmon farms by 2025.
Public and Indigenous Support
The campaign underscores the support of over 120 First Nations and at least 70% of Canadians for moving away from marine salmon aquaculture to sustainable land-based solutions. Pacific Wild urges Canadians to sign a petition to expedite the ban on open-net salmon farming to protect the environment and wildlife sooner.
Conclusion
As tensions rise over the future of salmon farming in British Columbia, Shatner’s high-profile involvement and the growing public support may increase pressure on the Canadian government to act more swiftly in transitioning to sustainable aquaculture practices.