An environmental group files intent to sue a salmon farmer for pollution off Maine’s coast
Associated PressPORTLAND, Maine — An environmental organization has served a notice of intent to sue one of the world’s largest aquaculture companies for violations of the Clean Water Act in Maine — allegations the fish farmer ardently denies. Conservation Law Foundation contends Cooke Aquaculture’s salmon farming sites off the Maine coast pollute the state’s bays, where lobster fishing is a key industry. “These enormous salmon cages are like sewage pipes to the marine environment,” said Heather Govern, vice president for the foundation’s clean air and water program. “Their solid waste smothers plants and ocean life while disease outbreaks and sea lice threaten nearby endangered wild salmon.” Cooke swiftly denied the allegations, and company representatives said the firm fully complies with the laws. Sebastian Belle, executive director of the Maine Aquaculture Association, said Saturday that the Conservation Law Foundation has worked with salmon farmers to develop environmental standards, and the notice of intent to sue was a surprise.
History of this topic
Lawsuit over California group’s do-not-eat listing for American lobster dismissed
Associated PressDiscover Related
