DEVELOPING ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES FOR FRESH-WATER AQUACULTURAL OPERATIONS - A CASE-STUDY

This paper reviews the progress towards the development of environmental guidelines for freshwater aquacultural concerns in the Western Cape. The guidelines are the product of over two years of collaborative work by a wide spectrum of individuals and organisations, both government and non-government, towards a common goal-efficient production of farmed aquatic species with minimal impact on freshwater aquatic ecosystems in the Western Cape. Particular attention is given to procedures which facilitated co-operation between the interested and affected parties. Our experience is documented in detail in order to provide other groups embarking on similar exercises with some assistance and direction. In accordance with this aim a number of recommendations, based on our experience, are provided.