Wharfside
September 2013
In this issue Adapt. Innovate. Overcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 The Global Salmon Initiative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Sierra Club salmon farm tour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 OrcaFest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Enjoying the pressure of the job. . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Celebrating success. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 The Sterling Cup goes to… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Just a thought. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Anything for a good cause! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 BC Salmon Farmers Association. . . . . . . . . . . 5 Nick King and friends at Variety. . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Brad “the biologist” returns to Miracle Beach Nature House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Final charity salmon barbeques this summer!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 RCMP Musical Ride. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Did you Know? Salmon are one of the most efficient farmed animals because they are cold blooded and don’t waste energy heating their bodies.
Trivia time! The longest freshwater beach is in Canada. Do you know where? Answer on Page 4
Comments about this Newsletter? Please email comments, articles and ideas to Ian Roberts, Communications Manager at ian.roberts@marineharvest.com
Adapt. Innovate. Overcome. (Mantra of US Military Academy at West Point) In last month’s issue, MHC’s Managing Director, Vincent Erenst, introduced the Marine By James Gaskill, Harvest vision of Production Director Leading the Blue Revolution. This is a follow-up from that introduction with a focus on being first movers in technology development and fish husbandry. Leading the Blue Revolution is more than just a well-fitting blue T-shirt. From a global perspective it means that Marine Harvest aims to be #1 in the areas of feed, fish production, and delivery of product to the customer. For Marine Harvest Canada this means being #1 across North America in fish performance and quality as well as our ability to deal with whatever our natural environment has to throw at us while preserving the environment itself. This can require substantial innovation, and innovation in itself is often difficult to develop, tough to communicate, and even tougher to implement. However, it must develop nonetheless and develop with a sense of urgency if we are to be first movers. Innovation and technology are not meant to form the basis of an organization such as ours, but they can be used to significantly
advance the performance of our business. This can be through our own innovation or often through the effective use of technology or innovative solutions developed by others. Some examples of where we have already been first movers through innovations made by ourselves and others are: Smolt quality: smolt status testing, Supersmolt technology, recirculation technology, and fresh water broodstock. Fish husbandry and performance: Law of The Farm philosophy, net washing technology, behavioural feeding, net design, predator prevention and weighting systems, and plankton mitigation systems. Quality: Kudoa avoidance planning, passive grading, and LED light technology. So what will we tackle in the future, why will we do it, and how will we do it? In the short term, we will focus on perfecting predator prevention and bloom avoidance systems, complete elimination of copper nets, followed very closely by more effective sea lice removal. The medium term goals could be dominated by developing a semi-rigid to rigid net system that remains in place throughout the life of the system. Longer term we could see zero antibiotics, feed systems that require ultra-low energy inputs (that are quiet and cause zero damage to feed), and sites that are stocked with very Continued on page 2
The Global Salmon Initiative
On August 15, 2013, CEOs of the global farmed salmon industry launched a major industry-led sustainability initiative. The Global Salmon Initiative (GSI) unites 15
global farmed salmon producers committed to greater industry cooperation and transparency, in order to achieve significant and continuous progress in industry sustainability. The initiative aims to make significant strides in providing a sustainable source of protein (farm-raised salmon) to feed a growing population.
Adapt. Innovate. Overcome.
To read more about GSI, please visit Marine Harvest Canada’s news release dated August 15, 2013.
“This is a game-changer. The salmon sector working together and embracing
Sierra Club salmon farm tour Brett Stricker was pleased to host members of the Sierra Club (USA) at his Swanson Island farm in August. The group was on a kayak tour of the area and had (coincidentally) enjoyed a meal of Marine Harvest Sterling salmon at Telegraph Cove
sustainability is going to radically change aquaculture – and affect the food industry in a big way,” said Dr. Jason Clay, Senior Vice President of Market Transformation for World Wildlife Fund.
the night before, so they were pleased to learn more about how Brett and his staff raise salmon on the farm. The team leader said they’d love to come back and visit again next year.
OrcaFest Port McNeill mayor, Gerry Furney, dropped by our barbeque at OrcaFest in August to say “hello”. The Marine Harvest BBQ raised over $1300 for the North Island food bank.
Continued...
large post-smolts, thus significantly reducing time in sea.
salmon better than anyone has yet imagined it could be.
innovate uncommon solutions, and overcome our fear of failure.
We will do this based on the belief that sea farming can always be better and that we will use innovation to make the growing of
In order to Lead the Blue Revolution, I encourage us all to adapt to our reality,
It’s worked for us so far – keep the good ideas coming.
2
MarineHarvestCanada.com
Enjoying the pressure of the job the payroll for all Campbell River-based employees, including office staff as well as farm site staff, hatchery staff, and support positions. And this pressure is just fine with her. “Getting paid right every two weeks is so important to people and that makes it important to me,” Corey says, adding that payroll “comes naturally”. Although the principles of payroll are the same regardless of the industry, Corey has needed to learn about the different jobs in order to understand how and why hours can vary from one pay period to the next. Corey Fitzgerald, Paymaster By Gina Forsyth
Almost 400 employees regularly depend on the skills Corey Fitzgerald brings to her position of Paymaster. She manages
Corey earned the designation “Certified Payroll Manager” from the Canadian Payroll Association in 2006. After completing her grade 12 at Timberline high school in 2000, Corey enrolled in business, administrative and accounting
courses at North Island College. Part of that experience included a full-time summer student position learning payroll at Catalyst, the former pulp and paper mill just north of town. When Catalyst closed their doors, Corey made the move to Safety Net Security where she did payroll for four years before joining Marine Harvest in 2012. Corey grew up a Campbell “Riverite” and she has been married for a decade to Chad, who is also Campbell River born and raised. They both enjoy playing hockey and baseball and parent two adorable kids, Peyton and Parker. The family of four loves to play in the outdoors and go camping on weekends. “I’m excited about using our new trailer for the first time this summer,” says Corey.
Celebrating success Staff in the Broughton area held a barbeque party in August to celebrate their excellent results. Campbell River office staff also joined the celebration which included a very competitive disc golf tournament! For more great photos, check out Marine Harvest Canada’s Facebook page.
MarineHarvestCanada.com
3
The Sterling Cup goes to… Congratulations to the staff at Okisollo for achieving the best Economic Feed Conversion Ratio (EFCR) for the 2011 year class. Daryl, Doug, Rocky, John and Steve (missing from photo is Dave and Randy) were congratulated by other staff members at a party held in the area last month. For more great photos, check out Marine Harvest Canada’s Facebook.
By Kristian Fletcher, Health & Safety Representative
So this time of the year is probably the most hectic of all. We have BBQ’s, lake trips, camping, and for those far more courageous than myself, maybe even some windsurfing or rock climbing. As a reminder to all staff and your families, please do your best at owning your 50% while we all enjoy our summer. Whether you are doing yard work, enjoying the outdoors or summer parties, don’t forget that injuries can happen at any time if we are not “Aware” of our surroundings. Here’s a thought: if you are taking road trips or going camping or activities of that nature, it’s always a good idea to pack a first aid kit, some extra food and
4
water, and some form of communication. I know there are a lot of places we all go in the summer (especially on the North Island) where there is no cell service. That being said, I decided that the best way to ensure that I had some form of communication would be to pack a handheld VHF Radio. When in doubt, being able to get a hold of the Coast Guard to relay emergency calls is a great back up plan. Remember “Plan A” is great, but having a “Plan B” or even “C” can be the difference between an emergency and a situation. It may also be prudent of me - and optimistic MarineHarvestCanada.com
that we enjoy a sunny September - to point out that while we may enjoy a few beers (or soda pop for that matter) on hot afternoons to cool down, it isn’t hydrating you. As a first aid attendant for most of my life, the #1 issue I typically deal with in the summer months is dehydration. There are lots of sports drinks, flavored waters and vitamin waters, but at the end of the day you just can’t beat good old fashioned H20. Just remember to drink lots and lots of water every day, and even more when you are physically exerting yourself during activities, or are outside in the elements. Stay safe, and stay hydrated!!!
Answer: Wasaga Beach on Georgian Bay, Lake Huron, Ontario (14 km long).
Just a thought
Gaudet Reality Tour a big hit Marine Harvest’s Jacques Gaudet provided us with a day to remember touring a salmon farm and enjoying the region’s ocean wildlife. Our trip started with Jacques’ informative safety orientation which assured us we were in good hands. Throughout the trip we learned of the challenges of the tides, currents and rocks in ocean navigation. Jacques also shared his knowledge of natural features and history of the area. His many anecdotal stories enriched our experience. Marcia, Janis and Wendy enjoyed their day with Jacques
I am writing to thank Marine Harvest for the rich experience my daughter and I had last month while visiting North Vancouver Island from Toronto, Ontario.
We were warmly received at the salmon farm we visited. Employees provided us with an informative tour and showed genuine interest in our questions. It was fascinating to see how fish farmers live. I was particularly impressed by the focus the company places on
occupational safety and ergonomically correct procedures. Overall, having toured first hand, we have increased confidence in buying and eating farm-raised salmon from British Columbia. Natural highlights of this trip were neverending, including sightings of white-sided dolphins, Dall porpoises, seals, an eagle paddling in the water to shore, a herring ball, humpback whales and orcas. It was the highlight of our visit to Vancouver Island and will be a memory to share with friends and family back east for years to come! With Gratitude, Marcia and Janis Norwood
Nick King and friends at Variety, The Children’s Charity barbeque fundraiser.
Anything for a good cause! Joe Johnson, Gerry Burry, Brett Stricker, Ian Roberts, Darryl (Special Olympian) and Clare Backman hammed it up for the Howie Meeker Golf Classic in support of BC Special Olympics.
The BC Salmon Farmers Association was proud to again host the “salmon farm” at the Kidz Discovery Farm at the Pacific National Exhibition in Vancouver. Alice and Andrew (with help from BCSFA volunteer Lori Walton) had a blast harvesting a salmon and taking it to market along with other agricultural products grown in BC! MarineHarvestCanada.com
“Thanks Marine Harvest! We had a very successful barbeque on Saturday serving ~ 150 people and raising $1209.75 for Variety, The Children’s Charity. It was a fun filled couple of hours with the weather holding off and great comments about the tasty salmon. Congratulations to the people who won prizes and thanks to all who donated, especially Tyee Chevrolet, MHC & the Campbell River Mirror.” – Roger King 5
Brad “the biologist” returns to Miracle Beach Nature House kids at the Miracle Beach Nature House. The kids were eager to dissect a salmon (donated by MHC) and to learn about its unique characteristics.
Claire, Emma, Liam and Lucy dissect a salmon
For the 3rd summer, MHC’s Brad Boyce shared his fishy knowledge with dozens of
“I just wanted to forward a very sincere thank you to all of you and your staff for providing fish, food and drink, and a very friendly and knowledgeable biologist for our educational night of learning about how to be a fish biologist at Miracle Beach Nature House! The night was a massive success; children to seniors took part in learning about salmon
anatomy. The comment cards were plentiful all indicating appreciation for such an event. I really can’t thank you enough! I am so very appreciative of your continued support in providing quality programming for our community.” Thank You! April Lowey, BSc, Naturalist Miracle Beach Nature House
Join us in September for our final charity salmon barbeques this summer!
Kathy and Tina prepped for the RCMP Musical Ride barbeque in Port Hardy. Almost $2000 was raised for the local hospital.
Done! Done! Relay for Life, Canadian Cancer Society Done! CR Head Injury Support Society Done! Beaver Lodge Lands Trust Committee Done! Relay for Life, Canadian Cancer Society Done! Comox Valley Kennel Club Done! Campbell River Twinning Society Done! CR and North Island Transition Society Done! Campbell River Dragon Boat Society Done! BC Professional Firefighters Burn Fund Done! Campbell River Salmon Kings Done! Port Hardy Rotary / Hospital Foundation Done! Port McNeill Orca Fest / Harvest Food BankDone! Variety, the Children’s Charity Done! St Joseph’s Hospital Foundation / Y.A.N.A.
30-Mar-13
Vanier Centre, Courtenay
Rotary Club of Strathcona Sunrise
28-Apr-13
Marine Park, Comox
25-May-13
PHSS, Port Hardy
29-May-13
Spirit Square, Campbell River
4-6pm
1-Jun-13
North Island College, CR
8-Jun-13
Vanier School, Courtenay
9-Jun-13
Pacific Playgrounds, Black Creek
15-Jun-13
Spirit Square, CR
23-Jun-13
Nunns Creek Park, CR
4:30-7:30pm
29-Jun-13
Dick Murphy Park, CR
12-1:30pm
1-Jul-13
Robert Ostler Park, CR
6-Jul-13
Centennial Pool, CR
11am-1pm 4pm 5-7pm 12-2pm
1-3pm 5:30-8pm
7-Aug-13
Storries Beach, Port Hardy
4-8pm
Port McNeill
12-4pm
24-Aug-13
Tyee Chevrolet, CR
7-Sep-13
Spirit Square, CR
SPCA Paws for a Cause
8-Sep-13
Nunns Creek Park, CR
Black Creek Community Association
13-Sep-13
Black Creek
Greenways Land Trust
21-Sep-13
Spirit Square, CR
Tour de Rock, Port Hardy
22-Sep-13
Recreation Centre, Port Hardy
Courtenay Lawn Bowling Club
28-Sep-13
Bill Moore Park, Courtenay
RCMP Musical Ride in Port Hardy, BC
6
6-8pm
17-Aug-13
Volunteer Campbell River
twitter.com/MHCanada
3-4pm 11am-5pm
facebook.com/MHCanada
MarineHarvestCanada.com
bit.ly/MHCanada
12-4pm 11:30-2pm 12-2pm 6-8pm 11:30am-1:30pm 12-1:15pm 12-2pm