The City of Campbell River is a hub for the global aquaculture industry on Canada's west coast. We host the headquarters of three major farmed-salmon producers:
- Cermaq Canada
- Mowi Canada West
- Grieg Seafood BC
Aquaculture and associated industries such as netting, processing, and boat building, employs approximately 400 people in Campbell River, with hundreds more employed by smaller surrounding communities.
Aquaculture Overview [PDF/7.4MB]
Local Business Environment
Campbell River's business and industry leaders are a tight-knit community. The local aquaculture sector shares customers, suppliers and industry insights, which promotes global competition and pushes the industry forward.
The sector has supportive wrap around services, which include the the BC Salmon Farmers Association (BCSFA) and the BC Shellfish Growers Association. These groups act as liaisons between industry and government, creating a business environment that is focused on transparency, communication and sustainability.
Municipal Support
We recognize the significance of the aquaculture industry to our region. Several municipal departments and staff, such as the Economic Development Officer, offer regular support. Communication and collaboration with provincial and federal bodies in support of local aquaculture are a top priority.
Land and Real Estate
Aside from premium seaside access, Campbell River can accommodate all the land-use needs that our aquaculture sector requires. This includes:
- manufacturing and other heavy industrial uses
- light industrial R&D or environmental services
- transportation facilities for shipping product around the world
- office space or administration services
- technical support functions
Transportation
Campbell River is connected with the rest of Vancouver Island through the highway system. This provides easy access to rural and remote communities.
Our City also has it own upgraded local airport. The Campbell River Airport has capacity for freight and passenger growth.
On the water, we have access to ocean shipping and towing routes. These routes run both northbound and southbound. Access them through our high-capacity dock facilities and various local tugboat operators.
Communications
Aquaculture companies and support industries require access to strong communications infrastructure. Campbell River is developing a network to support them, including:
- CRadvantage, our municipally owned, enterprise-level, fibre-optic broadband network, connecting to the downtown
- competitive rates for high-volume data needs from local Internet providers
Education and Training Opportunities
Campbell River has access to many quality post-secondary institutions. Local and island-based education centres maintain strong partnerships with local employers and industry leaders so students can find excellent job opportunities in their communities.
North Island Collage has a Seaweed Production and Processing program that empowers students to leverage the untapped potential of seaweed in various industries supporting the maricultural industry.
Additional aquaculture programs offered locally include:
- Aquaculture Technician Certificate
- Aquaculture Technician Diploma
- Hatchery Operations Certificate
- Shellfish Aquaculture Technician Certificate
There are also educational opportunities for support services such as engineering, bookkeeping, human resources and business management.