In a boost to B.C.’s fledgling sturgeon aquaculture industry, the federal government is providing $717,700 to complete a new International Centre for Sturgeon Studies (ICSS) at Vancouver Island University.
The centre is the first of its kind in North America.
“What we want to become is a knowledge and innovation hub for sturgeon aquaculture research,” said ICSS director Don Tillapaugh, noting the centre is a freshwater research facility thatalso has offices and meeting rooms.
He said that the only current sturgeon aquaculture operation in B.C. is Sechelt-based Target Marine Hatcheries Ltd., but he expects to see the industry grow in B.C.
“I think it holds a lot of potential.”
Besides caviar production, which is an 11-year process, sturgeon hold potential for meat production, similar to farmed salmon or trout.
“Sturgeon meat is very high quality so it commands a high market price,” he said. “So we think that sturgeon meat will have a very strong market and therefore the industry will be very large eventually.”
Tillapaugh said he expects the market for sturgeon meat to be small in B.C., but bigger the Pacific corridor, and bigger still in Asia. He added caviar is likely to be primarily an export market.
The funding for ICSS, provided through the Western Diversification Program, will equip the centre with an electrical generator, furniture and freshwater recirculation system and other components. The centre’s official grand opening is set for October 3.
Jenny Wagler
Twitter: JennyWagler_BIV