Statement on Aquaculture Review Board Decision on Liverpool Bay Application

Press Release

February 19, 2026

Our government is focused on growing the provincial economy – especially in rural and coastal communities – while protecting the marine environment Nova Scotians depend on. Aquaculture is an important sector for Nova Scotia, supporting year-round jobs and helping strengthen our food supply and exports.

Nova Scotia has a clear licensing and leasing process for aquaculture. Decisions are informed by science, community input and the standards applied through the Nova Scotia Aquaculture Review Board. The process includes opportunities for public participation, including engagement with Indigenous communities and other stakeholders.

For the application to amend the boundary of the Liverpool Bay aquaculture site, the Crown undertook consultation, and the board independently reviewed the adequacy of that consultation as part of its mandate. We respect the board’s role as an impartial decision-maker that evaluates proposals on their merits.

Nova Scotia also has strong environmental requirements for aquaculture to protect marine ecosystems. Operators must meet strict conditions, and compliance is monitored and enforced.

The decision regarding Liverpool Bay reflects a balanced, transparent and evidence-based approach – protecting the environment, respecting community and Indigenous input, and supporting sustainable economic opportunity in coastal Nova Scotia.

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