Salmon farming - use of acoustic deterrent devices: report

Appendix I – Questionnaire sent to stakeholders

We would like to understand the experiences of stakeholders in the use of these devices, and to gather any information, data or opinions from stakeholders that are relevant to the welfare impacts on fish and seals. The group seeks information on the following topics. We would like to gather opinions and experiences of all stakeholders and would also be very interested in data or video footage of the responses of salmonids to seal attacks or presence.

1. Firstly, please state which organisation/company you are representing and your role in that organisation, or whether you are replying independently

In your experience, please provide any information you may have on:

2. The extent of fish predation by seals:

a. estimates of numbers of attacks, number of fish predated and economic losses. Information on any other impacts of seal presence would be very useful

3. The impact of seal attack or presence on farmed salmonids in terms of the physical aspects of fish welfare:

a. Types of injuries and mortality and numbers of fish affected

b. Effects on growth rates and disease?

c. Do you have any data available to support this?

4. The impact of seal attack or presence on farmed salmonids in terms of behavioural responses:

a. Are there observable responses from the fish to seal presence or seal attack such as changes in feeding or changes in swimming patterns or schooling?

b. How close do seals need to be to elicit these responses?

c. How long do these responses persist if the seals move away?

d. Are any data or video footage available that illustrates this?

5. What is your opinion on the efficacy of currently used acoustic deterrent devices in deterring seals?

a. Are they effective in preventing seal approach or attack?

b. In what circumstances are they or are they not effective?

c. Are some devices more effective than others?

6. What alternative practices or deterrents are effective?

a. If you farm salmonids, what other alternative practices or devices (e.g. seal blinds, tension nets) have you tried and how effective are they?

b. What other methods do you think may be effective (whether you have tried these or not)?

7. Are there other impacts in terms of sustainability of the business or in terms of social acceptability of approaches to deal with seal presence?

8. Please also provide any other comments you would like to make on this issue