Statement from Gerald Leape, Salmon Aquaculture Reform Campaign, Pew Environment Group, in Response to the New York Times Article on Sea Lice on British Columbia Salmon

Gerald Leape of the Pew Environment Group today issued the following statement in response to an article published in the New York Times on sea lice and farmed salmon in British Columbia. Alexandra Morton is a researcher studying the impacts of sea lice on wild salmon populations.

"Alexandra Morton's research adds to the weight of scientific evidence showing that sea lice from open net cage salmon farms are killing wild salmon in British Columbia. Her studies have also found that pathogens such as sea lice could put the future of wild salmon runs at risk."

"Morton has raised awareness that this small parasite is a critical issue that must be addressed. She should be commended for her work."

The Pew Environment Group is the conservation arm of The Pew Charitable Trusts, a non-governmental organization headquartered in the United States that applies a rigorous, analytical approach to improving public policy, informing the public and stimulating civic life.

Pew is no longer active in this line of work, but for more information, visit the Salmon Aquaculture Reform campaign.