The salmon aquaculture conflict in British Columbia: A graph model analysis

The strategic conflict over salmon aquaculture development in the province of British Columbia, Canada, is analyzed systematically using the graph model for conflict resolution. The decision support system GMCR II, which permits the graph model methodology to be conveniently implemented in practice, is used to model and analyze the strategic interaction of aquaculturists, environmental groups, First Nations, other stakeholders, and the provincial and federal governments. This study is timely because the controversial moratorium on the expansion of the salmon aquaculture industry was lifted recently, with the express purpose of fostering economic growth. Strategic insights gained from the graph model analyses demonstrate how difficult it will be to develop salmon aquaculture so as to balance multiple objectives including sustainability, shielding of the natural aquatic ecosystem, economic benefits, and social welfare for key stakeholders.