Environment

Mussel growers in each state are issued with a marine farm licence by their State governments to operate a marine farm lease according to specific conditions and criteria. Various pieces of state and commonwealth planning and environmental protection legislation are applied to and influence our mussel farming operations. This is usually condensed into one regulation under a State Fisheries, Aquaculture or Marine Act. This acts as a checkpoint and provides a rigorous framework for the industry's environmental compliance and sustainability.

Mussel growers know that looking after their environment is vital for healthy mussels and product safety and quality. Many seek to exceed environmental standards for their own operations and are also advocates for water quality.

Our coastal areas support shellfish production, commercial and recreational fishers, land based primary industries, and a quickly rising population of people who want to live, work and play at the water's edge.

Australia's blue mussel farms are carefully located in off shore or remote locations that are selected marine farming zones and are suited to mussel growing. At the same time they recognise the interest of other stakeholders and neighbours and the balance between productivity and water quality.

In Australia several mussel farms are either certified organic or have won prestigious awards for their pursuit of excellence in environmental sustainability.

A healthy mussel is your coastal environment's tick of approval!