News Release

SAINT ANDREWS (CNB) – Marine bioscience experts will share best practices and the latest innovations as they relate to the Bay of Fundy at a conference in Saint Andrews on Friday, March 25.

The conference is being organized by the Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries in partnership with BioAtlantech.

Speakers will present on topics such as long-term sustainability and profitability in the region's marine sector; climate change as it relates to the fisheries resources; innovative new products from marine resources; and sustainable solutions for fish health in aquaculture.

"Supporting innovation and the bio-economy is a key component of the Fisheries Renewal Framework," said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Michael Olscamp, "This workshop is an example of collaboration on new technologies and scientific findings. We are proud to partner with BioAtlantech to facilitate this exchange of information and ideas."

BioAtlantech is the lead agency for New Brunswick's bio-industries. The agency specializes in research, technology transfer, and economic development. In addition, they assist in building and enhancing new and existing businesses in the province’s bioscience sector.

"The bioscience industry in New Brunswick is growing,” said John Argall, executive director of BioAtlantech. “Traditional sectors are increasingly incorporating biosciences to meet the emerging demands of consumers and international markets. We are excited to partner in providing networking and learning opportunities like this."

The workshop will feature leading scientists as guest speakers including: Alan Critchley and Raul Ugarte from Acadian Seaplants; Ben Forward from the Research and Productivity Council; Michael Beattie from the Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries; Sharon McGladdery from the Saint Andrews Biological Station; Larry Hammell from the Atlantic Veterinarian Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences; Thierry Chopin from the University of New Brunswick; and Neil Ross from the National Research Council of Canada.

The workshop will also include a tour of the Huntsman Marine Science Centre and a facility tour of Breviro Caviar Inc.

Bioscience investments in New Brunswick represent an estimated $110 million in economic activity from core bioscience companies, and as much as $226 million when the output of other industries such as fisheries, aquaculture, agriculture, and forestry are included. The bioscience community employs almost 2,000 people in the province.