Manual Offers Advice for Lobster Pounds

A new manual aimed at enhancing the province's reputation for quality lobster is now available free from the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Engineer Colleen Rodgerson, a project officer with the department, researched and developed the manual over the past year. She said the 18-page manual, titled Guidelines for Live Lobster Holding, should answer many commonly asked questions about developing a land-based lobster pound.

"Many established operators already have first-rate facilities, but any new lobster buyer may need this kind of information. We're happy to provide it," said Ms. Rodgerson.

The manual has advice for licence applicants and individuals currently licensed to buy lobster and/or operate lobster pounds. All newly licensed buyers of lobster are required to have access to and maintain a facility that will enhance the quality of live lobster.

Although the manual focuses on land-based holding systems, some of the holding requirements discussed can also apply to tidal pounds.

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Keith Colwell says this guide nails down the basics and adds a few tips on building a successful pound.

"Over the past three to four years, more and more land-based pounds have been built," said Mr. Colwell. "Anytime you can improve quality, then the whole industry benefits."

Currently, there are about 140 lobster and tidal pounds in Nova Scotia and that number is growing. Lobster tops Nova Scotia's list of fish exports.

The manual's author, Colleen Rodgerson, has extensive experience with the design of lobster-holding systems and will provide practical advice to Nova Scotia lobster buyers who plan to build or improve their system. She can be contacted at 902-424-0161, fax 902-424-1766 or e-mail [email protected] .

Copies of the manual can be obtained by visiting the department's website at http://www.gov.ns.ca/fish or by calling 902-424-4151.