This project aims to develop a state-of-the-art carrying capacity model for finfish and shellfish aquaculture, to assist with decision support. An overarching software model (Farming in Natural Systems or FINS) will enable carrying capacity assessments of different aquaculture scenarios in select Nova Scotia waterbodies. FINS will connect carrying capacity modules of finfish and shellfish production, organic waste deposition from finfish, breakdown of waste sediments into sulphides, dissolved nutrients, disease transfer risk, and phytoplankton dynamics. The Finite Volume Community Ocean Model (FVCOM) is being applied to define the underlying ocean circulation of modelled locations. Carrying capacities will be calculated as a function of aquaculture type, production, location, site configuration, and proximity to other aquaculture operations. The project is being developed in consultation with the Aquaculture Association of Nova Scotia and has been funded by the Atlantic Fisheries Fund.
