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ASSIGNMENT
Write a reflective piece on the location of aquaculture farms in Ireland and how they can contribute socio-economically to coastal communities and post your reflective piece (150 words min) to this forum as a Reply to this post.
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Firstly, I must admit I have very little knowledge on the agricultural conditions of Ireland and I loved the map of Ireland highlighting the areas of successful agriculture. The explanation of ‘Goldilocks’ weather was superb as I look out my window at the pouring rain on July 1st and contemplate the best time to put the bedsheets out on the line! This explanation went down well with my husband and children also.
I was fascinated to hear how farming on land will soon become a premium and how only 1-2% of our world’s oceans are used for aquaculture and how this is an area that would lend itself to further sustainable growth. The West coast of Ireland is perfect for aquaculture in Ireland and this interests me greatly as I teach on the East coast and this information and that of Aquaculture is little known, however we are not far from Carlingford and I was delighted to see it highlighted on the map. It is important to support aquaculture and in doing so support local coastal communities both directly and indirectly.-
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Great points Michelle! I too was fascinated to hear how farming on land will soon become a premium and how only 1-2% of our world’s oceans are used for aquaculture and how this is an area that would lend itself to further sustainable growth. Our school is located near Carlingford, in Co. Louth . There is an Oyster farm here in Carlingford and owned by the Louet-Feisser family. There are so many time that I have passed it by now I seem to notice it more and am interested as I am doing this online course. This great Aquaculture farms provides employment to local people near and far and provides many of the local eateries with fresh local oysters. Recently I visited the ARC in Carlingford and it gave me and my children a great insight in to the knock on and positive effect of having a local Aquaculture farm here on our door step. Having the farm keeps the waterways clear it boosts economic growth in the area as well as employment opportunities.
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I grew up in a rural community in the west of Ireland, but it was a farming community. I knew the importance of agriculture in the region and its role in creating employment directly and indirectly. I lived several miles from the coastline and as a result I had very little knowledge of aquaculture.
I understand that aquaculture offers much to coastal communities socially and economically mainly in relation to industry and employment. Aquaculture provides many jobs in the fishing industry and the aquaculture that takes place in the western Atlantic seaboard of Ireland provides other areas such as the food industry, education and research, science, health and finally the leisure industry. I’m aware that many people rely on aquaculture for work in these in these communities. I wasn’t aware of different coastal features in Ireland and how they determine the type of sea life in those regions. Different intertidal zones with tidal action determining the type of fishing that takes place. Whether it be salmon, mussels or oysters. This may explain the socio economically features of these communities. -
Hi Robert,
This is something we notice when bringing the ARC around Ireland that agriculture is still more widely known even along the coastline when compared to aquaculture. It is always surprising though, how much the students know about marine life in general which is great to see! The various coastal features created by the Atlantic ocean on our west coast provide a unique opportunity for different regions in Ireland to be able to focus on diferent species such as the differences between oyster and mussel farming.
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This module was very informative and gave me a further insight into the geography of our Irish coastline and how its features can be used to determine where an aquaculture farm can be. When we think of farming, we generally think of agriculture, but my mind has now been opened further to aquaculture. I liked the description of our climate as a ‘Goldilocks Climate’ where conditions are cool, damp and rarely hit extremes. It is interesting to learn more about the North Atlantic Drift which contributes to the temperature the Atlantic Ocean. Due to the West coast of Ireland being heavily dominated by mountains, making it unsuitable for land farming, it is a place where lots of fish farming takes place. Having grown up in a fishing community and doing a boat tour of the salmon farm, it is clear that sheltered bays, inlets and harbours are more ideal for fish farming. I have seen first hand the socio- economic value of aquaculture farms – they provide a lot of employment for local people from the farms themselves to the factories packaging the fish, the ice plants etc.
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Hi Grainne,
The ‘Goldilocks’ climate is an excellent way of describing Ireland’s cimate to children as they can understand the term pretty quickly. What most don’t realise is that global currents such as the gulf stream, or El Nino currents for the Pacific, are key to maintaining the climates we see worldwide. Shifts in these current patterns can adversely affect Ireland’s Goldilocks climate in the future and farming here could be the worst affected.
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I would be very similar to a number of participants and have very little knowledge of agriculture (I probably shouldn’t admit I’m married to a farmer) and even less of aquaculture so I really found many elements of this module very useful and they were shared in a very user friendly manner. I found the maps and diagrams as well as the videos very helpful. I had done courses on climate change before but hadn’t come across the 5 different climates before. I loved the term ‘Goldilocks’ weather and think this would be something that children could really understand.
Living on the east coast of Ireland, between Dublin Bay and Clogherhead, you can see how much aquaculture is taking place and the reliance of many business and families on it economically – from those taking part in the farming of the fish, to those harvesting, packing, selling and using as an end product. It is a huge industry and one that should be protected by the BIM and the Irish government. -
The five climates is an interesting theory that can be delved into a lot deeper, especially considering a Meditterranean climate may fall under the same umbrella of temperate climate that we see in Ireland. This shows the influence of latitude specifically in sub-climates. It is great to see so much productivity on the east as well, with Clogherhead supporting many local fishing groups as well!
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From reading other participants forums, I am at ease to see that I am not that only on with limited aquaculture knowledge!. Having grown up on a farm, the word agriculture was part of everyday conversation, but unfortunately aquaculture wasnt, something that is shocking when the coastal town on Kinvara lays less than 6 miles away. I must be honest, growing up aquaculture and farming at sea was not something I was taught to appreciate or understand fully. From this module my whole thought process and understanding has changed for the better. The module was extremely effective and gave clear concise information regarding the topic for someone with very limited knowledge on the subject even though I am lover of sea food!!. We need to place more emphasis on the teaching of aquaculture in schools, to share and promote the importance of life at sea and how it contributes positively to our being, highlighting its impact to our local and wider community.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland are mainly located along the coast, taking advantage of the clean waters of the Atlantic Ocean, bays, and estuaries. These farms grow various species like salmon, mussels, oysters, and seaweed. The location of these farms supports coastal communities in many ways:
Job Creation
Aquaculture farms provide jobs directly on the farms and indirectly in areas like processing, distribution, and marketing. This helps create stable, year-round employment for local residents, which is more reliable than seasonal fishing jobs.Economic Stability
Having aquaculture farms helps diversify the local economy, reducing dependence on traditional fishing. This makes the local economy more stable and less vulnerable to changes in wild fish populations and market prices.Local Business Support
These farms support other local businesses such as equipment suppliers, feed producers, and maintenance services. They also encourage the development of local processing facilities, which add value to the aquaculture products and keep more money within the community.Skills and Innovation
Aquaculture encourages learning and innovation. Workers gain specialised knowledge in marine biology and sustainable farming. Partnerships with research institutions help bring new scientific advancements into the industry.Environmental Care
Modern aquaculture practices focus on sustainability and protecting the environment. Responsible farming methods, such as using sustainable feed and minimising chemicals, help maintain healthy marine ecosystems, which are crucial for the community’s long-term prosperity.Cultural and Social Benefits
Aquaculture supports the preservation of maritime traditions and strengthens community ties. It maintains cultural heritage and fosters a sense of collective responsibility and pride.Food Security
Aquaculture farms contribute to food security by providing a reliable, sustainable source of high-quality seafood. This reduces reliance on imported seafood and ensures that fresh, nutritious food is available locally.Tourism and Education
Aquaculture can attract tourists and educational activities by offering tours and interactive experiences that highlight sustainable farming and marine conservation. This creates additional income and raises public awareness about the importance of aquaculture.In summary, the location of aquaculture farms along Ireland’s coast is vital for the socio-economic growth of coastal communities. They provide jobs, support local businesses, promote sustainability, and enhance food security, making them a key part of Ireland’s coastal economy and culture.
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I feel like this module took an interesting slant when teaching about national aquaculture. It not only focused on the Geography of our aqua farms but also the communities and families that we support when we buy fresh, local and Irish. In a time where people are becoming more mindful of their personal consumerism, I think this module highlights the importance of teaching this concept to our children in schools. We have often used the ‘farm to fork’ analogy in our school when asking the children to plant, grow, harvest and eat from our school polytunnel. This module provided resources which would help us go one step further and explore our national sea life. This module highlighted the importance of the marine industry along the coastal parts of Ireland and as someone teaching in a small school in Kildare I do feel the impact that these producers have nationally should be shared. I really enjoyed learning more about the Killary Fjord and I think this particular section could be brought alive in the classroom and would create a very interesting SESE project.
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Hi Deirdre,
Glad to hear you enjoyed Module 2 – Where do we Farm, and were able to take a lot of information away from it as well! The ‘Farm to Fork’ initiative is excellent for providing students with the information they need to produce their own fresh food at home and how to be sustainable in doing so.
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Aquaculture farms, predominantly located along Ireland’s extensive Atlantic coastline, play a vital role in the socio-economic development of coastal communities.
These farms, which primarily focus on the cultivation of seafood such as salmon, mussels, and oysters contribute massively to social and economic growth in these communities.
Having lived in a coastal community for years, I can see how aquaculuture farms have provided many employment opportunities spanning from manual labour across to roles in marine biology and technology. This fosters independence and self-reliance in these communities, being less dependent on tourism or agriculture alone
In many coastal areas, fishing has been a way of life for generations. By integrating modern techniques with traditional knowledge, aquaculture helps maintain cultural heritage while promoting sustainable practices. The collaborative nature of aquaculture, which often involves family-run businesses, creates strong social ties and encourages collaboration and communication to ensure the success of the industry.
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What I garnered from this module, is that, aquaculture is more suited to locations which are unsuitable for agriculture. Predominantly, these are areas running along the west coast of Ireland. The deep Atlantic waters along the west coast with its breakwaters of archipelagos, islands and peninsulas provide shelter for successful aquaculture, be it Salmon farming, Pacific Rock oysters or Blue Mussels. Historically, Donegal, Mayo and Kerry would have had high levels of emigration. Investment in both Aquaculture and in digital technology has made doing business in these areas more attractive and more profitable. Investment in this area has also resulted in the development of new career paths. – Qualified sea-divers are needed to maintain these farms. This along with more modern boat fishing, has lead to improved employment prospects for local people. The cumulative effect of aquaculture farms to a community is sizeable. Employees in these industries require accommodation, food, entertainment, possibly access to education, if they have families. All of which helps the local economy.
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Module 2 has really highlighted the importance of the west coast of Ireland to aquaculture. The Atlantic coastline is the perfect place to provide a successful environment for aquaculture. As they mentioned with the global rise in population, there is less and less land available for agricultural farming. With Ireland’s long coastline it offers perfect conditions for aquaculture – with our ‘Goldilocks climate’ and sheltered coastline. It offers huge benefits to the economy- both locally and nationally. As mentioned in the module, the study of marine science is invaluable, and the Irish coastline can offer so much to this. For example, in Galway where she mentioned she was studying shellfish farming and how they can improve the quality of shellfish in Irish waters, so we have better quality food reaching our tables. Having grown up on the west coast of Ireland I can see how it can provide huge benefits to the locality, especially with employment.
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Hi Rachael, great insights and reflections of Aquaculture from growing up on the west coast of Ireland which you have highlighted provides the perfect environment for Aquaculture.
Coastal communities in Ireland rely heavily on aquaculture as a source of food, income and employment and helps to keep people living locally. We are very lucky here in Ireland to surrounded by the natural resource of the sea!
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I enjoyed this module and it gave me a good insight into location location location, speaking to my father who spent many a year down in the country we spoke about the importance of this to Ireland, aquaculture farms along Ireland’s coastline are a real boon for local communities. They’re not just about growing seafood it’s about creating jobs that keep young people close to home and support local businesses. The weather here plays a crucial role it’s just right for aquaculture, not too hot or cold, which means consistent production and top-notch seafood. Which I’m partial too myself!
There also hubs of economic activity. They drive demand for equipment, feed, and services, benefiting suppliers and local shops alike. Plus, they draw tourists interested in sustainable seafood practices and the beauty of coastal Ireland, which boosts hospitality and restaurant industries.
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Hi Mikey, great insights here about how important Irish Aquaculture farms are to people living in coastal rural areas. Communities in these coastal rural areas often see many young people emigrating to find work. New jobs in the Aquaculture industry provides an alternative option for young people to stay and work in these areas where they grew up!
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As someone who comes from a rural part of the west of Ireland, negative socio-economic outcomes can reduce, if not eliminate a generation of a coastal communities. They can also create a sense of needing to move outside the community in order to progress to better qualifications and jobs, with the spin off effects of shops, sporting teams and community groups for example being severely hindered, and lost traditions and culture.
While aquaculture farms may not be a direct replacement for traditions fishing methods from the past, they offer a community jobs, a skilled workforce, safer and more sustainable work environments. Rugged rural areas where tourism may never take off or areas very isolated now have opportunities to flourish. As the module describes different types of coastlines for different types of aquaculture, areas can work to their strengths, for example a community with a deep harbour can introduce different aquaculture than an area which is defined more by the tides. Similar to agriculture where we use our ‘green’ and clean image as unique selling point, we can use our clean unspoilt coastlines to develop our aquaculture industry.
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Hi Sinead, well done on this. This is exactly the point of the aquaculture industry here in Ireland. The industry is not trying to prevent fishing from happening. One of the main goals of aquaculture is to try to alleviate the pressures Ireland’s fishing industry faces. This is particularly important in salmon fishing as the wild salmon stocks are massively depleted. With the help of salmon farming, we hope the wild salmon stocks will bounce back in the near future.
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I totally agree. To see even the cost of housing in cities and the living expenses let alone the over population and its consequences and then compare it to the job opportunities that can come to these communities and even the tourism it can attract will be amazing. I will be looking to book a tour and try some of these foods from aquaculture.
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To be honest, before I did this course, I wouldn’t have thought too much about sea-farming, etc. When you think of farming, you automatically think of agriculture farming. This course has made me more aware of the importance of aquaculture has in the Irish economy. It supports local coastal communities, both directly and indirectly. Having watched the video clips, I can see how huge mussel farming is. Not only for the mussel farmers, but also you must think of the divers. Having the opportunity to become a professional diver and making it a job is great in Ireland. The BIM has been hugely successful and is a great Agency. Another area for aquaculture to contribute to the economy would be salmon farms. As this is predominantly in the western side of Ireland, because of the location of harbours and piers, it offers employment opportunities. All of these have led to improved employment in the local area.
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Hi Rachel, great to see you are learning about Ireland’s underwater farming. When we talk about farming here in Ireland, most people only think of agriculture, so you are not alone. The aquaculture and fishing industry here in Ireland employs over 16,000 people directly and indirectly and is hugely important in Ireland’s coastal communities.
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The map of Ireland was a great visual for the location of the aquaculture farming around us. With the growth in population, the increase of people moving to busier parts of Ireland, the rise of infrastructure in the West coast of Ireland all contribute to the local community. At times we can see a decrease in the number of people living in the West coast of Ireland. Without aquaculture farming many of these towns and villages would not be able to survive. With the rise in this type of farming allows these areas to become ‘attractive’ once again. People now have emplyment opportunities here and no longer need to relocate to other parts of the country. This then has an effective on local amenities – schools, roads, transport, shops, etc. The success of BIM has made a fantastic contribution to the west coast in particular. Having completed this module iy shows you some examples of this – Mussel farming, salmon farming, oyster fishing, science research, etc.
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Hi Muireann, the map used in this module is also used as part of our workshop and is a great way to visualize the many Aquaculture farms which are dotted along our coastlines here in Ireland. Many times I have students living near areas of ongoing Aquaculture with no knowledge of what type of Aquaculture was taking place!
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I thought the map was very useful and is a great resource for the class. It is very true that some students are not even aware of the farming around them.
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Hi Rachel,
I really liked the map, it was bright, creative and wonderful for our visual learners. It was amazing to see the amount of producers working in the industry and how they integrate with the communities and the food industry. They are such a fabric of our coastline and a wonderful representation of what is great about Irish food and natural resources.
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I agree and the children coming through our doors often don’t even know which county they live or where it can be found. To be able to find their area on the map and find how these businesses are near theirs or why their county is suitable not suitable for aquaculture or which parts of the county could be used. Teaching in a landlocked county they will have to work out how their county can be involved whether directly in fresh water lake or distribution from a coastal region..
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It has been interesting to learn more about aquaculture farms in Ireland and the main species that they deal with. It is clear to see that the farms are mostly located in coastal areas that have the best conditions for production in addition to some of the facilities necessary. As mentioned, many of these areas are restricted in what they can produce due to poor soil and boggy areas etc. As such, it can be difficult to find employment for those living locally. Aquaculture, however, appears to provide lots of opportunities for people to remain in an area and use the local resources they have. Employment may be available from initial production to final sale of the actual produce, in addition to other areas that involve tourism, food trails etc. The support of BIM, offering a variety of training in commercial diving, seafood processing and management development to name but a few, is essential in helping support the sector as well as providing opportunities for career development and specialised skills. All of this feeds back into the local communities to help provide sustainable livelihoods and thriving communities.
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Hi Pauline, great feedback. The aquaculture and fishing industry employs over 16,000 people directly and indirectly and is vitally important to coastal communities, particularly in the west coast of Ireland. As mentioned, the west of Ireland can have poor soil and weather quality, thus making it difficult for agriculture. This is where aquaculture comes into play a huge role in socioeconomics in these coastal communities, by supporting employment in these coastal communities.
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This module provided me with great insight into the location of aquacultural farms and the importance of plotting the location of such farms depending on the species that are being farmed. Ultimately the examples provided, highlighted that coastal areas are best suited for aquacultural farming and that the terrain would not be suitable for agricultural farming, as they are often mountainous, rocky and difficult to navigate compared to the midlands and eastern Ireland.
Looking at the location of aquacultural farms along the west coast of Ireland, the impact that these farms have socio-economically speaking, are huge. They clearly provide employment, fresh local produce, and very notably keep the tradition of oyster and mussel farming alive in these regions, an aspect of Irish culture that we are renowned for worldwide. The opportunities that are provided are also greatly important, for example enabling young marine biologists to obtain commercial diving training and qualifications through BIM, is a phenomenal aspect of this initiative, as students can get their training within Ireland, while also living, learning and experiencing the local traditions that these aquacultural farms offer.
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Hi Matthew, great to see you found module 2 interesting. Salmon, Mussel and Oyster farms along the west coast of Ireland provide many forms of employment, direct and indirect. Take Killary Harbour in Connemara, for example. Killary Harbour is the only fjord in Ireland. Having deep nutrient-rich and deep waters, it is ideal for mussel farming. At the mouth of the fjord, there are lots of strong currents coming from the Atlantic Ocean, which is ideal for salmon farming. This provides a lot of employment in this coastal area and is essential to Killary Harbours community.
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I agree that the module gave me great insight into the importance of the location of aquaculture farms and how they vary depending on the species farmed. Coastal areas are ideal for aquaculture, as they often have terrain unsuitable for traditional farming due to their mountainous, rocky landscapes, unlike the more navigable midlands and eastern regions of Ireland.
The aquaculture farms along the west coast of Ireland have a significant socio-economic impact. They create jobs, provide fresh local seafood, and preserve the traditional practices of oyster and mussel farming, which are important aspects of Irish culture recognized worldwide. Additionally, these farms offer fantastic opportunities for young marine biologists. Through initiatives like BIM, students can receive commercial diving training and qualifications within Ireland. This allows them to live, learn, and immerse themselves in the local traditions of aquaculture. Overall, these farms are vital for supporting local economies and preserving cultural heritage while providing valuable educational opportunities.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland are becoming more and more important for a variety of reasons. They can contribute socio-economically to coastal communities by providing jobs in areas where populations were dwindling or moving to bigger cities and towns. Being from Kerry and living along the Atlantic coast I think it is so important to show children the diversity of careers that they can have on their doorstep. For children I’m sure many of the career options in aquaculture seem exciting – diving, researching, working in labs etc I could see how using aquaculture as a theme for science week in school as being a great idea.
Children at primary school age are like sponges and really learn from being in an environment or being active in their learning. Bringing them on a school trip to a coastline or even printing Google maps of the local area and doing a lesson based on that. Maybe bringing in someone working in the local area in aquaculture to speak to the children about their experiences. There are so many opportunities to delve into the area of aquaculture in the primary curriculum. Living in a coastal community I think it is so important for the kids to learn about their local community, the importance of it and the career opportunities that are there for them.
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Hi Catherine, great work. As you mentioned you are from Kerry, and there is loads of aquaculture and fishing there. Take Cromane for example. Cromane Bay is famous for its Pacific Oysters and has some wild salmon fishing and mussel beds. Your students will really enjoy the mapping activity, especially if they have an interest in geography. It is an excellent way to help them visualise the specific marine environments and conditions that salmon, oysters, and mussels need to thrive here in Ireland.
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The location of aquaculture farms, predominantly along the west coast of Ireland shows the importance of utilising the local natural environment. The rugged west coast might not be the ideal location for farming the land, but the practical use of the sea has created many jobs, maintained industries and encouraged tourism with superb seafood. There is less need for people to move to bigger towns/cities when there are employment opportunities available locally. Living along the coastline offers the benefits of aquaculture and allows for other ventures such as boat tours. I did the Sea Safari in Bantry Bay a few years ago and learned so much about the area. We went out around the Beara peninsula and there was a seaweed hatchery being built at the time, another fantastic benefit to being along the coast. It’s wonderful to see so many opportunities for socio-economic growth in coastal communities which may struggle otherwise.
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Hi Niamh,
Thank you for the great feedback. The Bantry Bay Sea Safari is one of my favorites as well—it’s a stunning part of Ireland, especially when seen from the sea. Bantry Bay is also a hub for aquaculture, with 13 companies operating in the sector.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland, particularly along the extensive coastline, play a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of coastal communities. These farms, especially those cultivating oysters, mussels, and salmon, provide numerous employment opportunities, thereby boosting local economies. Jobs in aquaculture span various sectors, including farming, processing, logistics, and sales, which contribute to reducing unemployment and encouraging the retention of young people in rural areas.
Moreover, aquaculture promotes ancillary industries such as tourism, as visitors are drawn to regions known for their high-quality seafood. This influx of tourists can lead to increased revenue for local businesses, from restaurants to accommodation providers.
Environmentally sustainable practices in aquaculture also ensure the preservation of marine ecosystems, which is crucial for maintaining the natural beauty and biodiversity of Ireland’s coastline. In sum, the strategic placement of aquaculture farms not only enhances food security and sustainable seafood production but also drives economic growth and community resilience in Ireland’s coastal regions.
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Hi Tommy,
Great work. Thank you! Tourism is a vital part of the business for small coastal communities. Aquaculture supports tourism, which in turn boosts these communities.
These tourism initiatives could serve as excellent ideas for class trips. For example a boat trip, a visit to an aquaculture farm, or even a shoreline walk, providing students with an opportunity to explore and learn.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland are predominantly located along the western and southern coasts, areas characterised by clean waters and favourable environmental conditions. Key regions include counties such as Donegal, Galway, Kerry, and Cork. These farms cultivate species like salmon, mussels, oysters, and seaweed. Socio-economically, aquaculture contributes significantly to coastal communities by creating jobs and supporting local economies. Employment opportunities range from farm management to processing and distribution, bolstering income levels and reducing rural depopulation. Additionally, the industry supports ancillary services, such as equipment supply and maintenance, fostering further economic activity. Aquaculture promotes tourism by attracting visitors interested in marine activities and local seafood cuisine, thus diversifying and strengthening the economic base. Moreover, it enhances food security by providing a reliable source of locally produced seafood. Overall, aquaculture supports sustainable economic development, contributing to the vitality and resilience of Ireland’s coastal communities. Other aspects that would interest people are unique tourist destinations such as Killary Harbour in Connemara, the only fjord in Ireland.
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Another very interesting module. Aquafarming in Ireland significantly contributes socio-economically to coastal communities. It can create employment opportunities, both directly in fish farms and indirectly through associated industries like processing, transportation, and equipment supply. any increase in jobs in a local community can support local economies like the shops and schools!
Economic benefits can also pass on to small businesses, as aquafarm workers and their families spend money locall in the shops/pubs/hotels etc. Aquafarming promotes sustainable use of local resources as well which can only benefit a community
Socially, it can foster education around the industry and even preservation of traditional fishing methods/seaweed collection maybe even attracting tourism etc
In terms of preparing a unit of learning around aqua farming for a class in my special school I think using the resources on the BIM site would be key. As a special school I would be looking at multiple forms of representation of information to support the learning styles of my students e.g. visuals like the map shown in the video, ICT options Guest speaker.
Looking forward to having a speaker from the young Chef initiative- or maybe a demonstration!
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Hi Mary,
Great feedback. Bringing in a guest speaker would be an excellent idea. We’ve seen this work very well in the past, with many aquaculture farmers being eager to give short presentations about their work. They often bring in equipment or seafood from their farms for a show and tell, which the students always love.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland, located along the country’s beautiful coastline, play an important role in supporting coastal communities both socially and economically. These farms, which raise species like salmon, oysters, and mussels, benefit from Ireland’s clean waters.
Firstly, aquaculture farms provide jobs. They offer work in farming, processing, and selling seafood, giving people in coastal areas more employment options. This helps improve local economies as workers spend their earnings in nearby shops and services.
Secondly, aquaculture adds variety to the local economy. Many coastal areas rely on traditional fishing, which can be unstable due to overfishing or environmental changes. Aquaculture offers a stable alternative, helping communities avoid relying too much on one source of income.
Additionally, aquaculture supports other local businesses. Suppliers of farming equipment, transportation services, and even tourism benefit. Tourists often enjoy fresh, locally-sourced seafood and may visit farms for educational tours, boosting the hospitality industry and raising awareness about sustainable practices.
Sustainable aquaculture is also good for the environment. Modern farms use practices that protect marine life and habitats, ensuring that seafood production can continue for future generations. This careful approach helps maintain the health of the ocean and supports the long-term success of the aquaculture industry.
In conclusion, well-placed and well-managed aquaculture farms in Ireland bring many benefits to coastal communities. They create jobs, support various local businesses, diversify the economy, and promote environmental health, making these communities stronger and more resilient.
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I found this module very interesting indeed. Aquaculture seems to have such a low environmental impact. We in Ireland are in a lucky position to be very suited to this industry. We are blessed with a cool temperate oceanic climate which is an essential for aquaculture. we also have a long coastline (obviously being an island nation) with particularly suitable conditions along our long western atlantic coast. We have plenty of secluded areas of coast with deep water and shelter. I live in Co Waterford and there is a fish farm (I am pretty sure it is a mussel farm) on a beach not too far from my school. This could make a great field trip if it could be arranged with the fish farmers involved. As aquaculture is so common in the west I am sure it has great socio economic advantages for this area. Much of the land in this part of the country is not suited to agriculture so this is a viable alternative bringing both direct and indirect employment to many communities along this coastline. I’m sure there is a certain potential for tourism around this industry also.
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How exciting to see how the places we can’t use it for agriculture due to the mountainous areas can be used for aquaculture. As someone with a daughter who wants to do marine biology but in school is not being encouraged as it is seen as niche how exciting to see how aquaculture has grown and all the jobs that BIM has laid out that can be undertaken. With our mild climate it is perfect temperatures and I cannot believe how much the tidal changes the fishing eg the mussels, the oysters needing the sheltered areas so the mesh bags can be changed over by staff. As for lesson planning how exciting to show children the country they live in, outlining where the different counties are, the different coastal regions. As I teach in a landlocked county how exciting to teach the children about the coast in a different way. We already teach about the coast, lighthouses of ireland, RNLI so how exciting to add aquaculture to my planning. They can use Google Earth to find suitable coastal area for the farm, they can investigate the infrastructure in that area, transport links, find suitable places to set up factory/distribution centres while blending in with the environment and making it complement the area rather than being an industrial building detrimental to the landscape. There could be tours of the factory, finding out meals that can be cooked with the salmon or mussels. The children can investigate local hotels and restaurants the farm could sell to aswell as explaining exporting to the wider population.
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Hi Shirley, it is great to see that your daughter wants to study marine biology in the future. Ireland is an island surrounded by seawater so there is a wealth of opportunities to explore. We get a lot of schools from landlocked counties interested in a visit from the ARC but unfortunately, the ARC tends to stay in the coastal areas, where aquaculture is most active. We do however, host ARC webinars and if you would ever like to join please pop me an email on arc@aquaculture.ie.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland are located along the country’s diverse coastline. These farms, situated in sheltered bays, estuaries, and coastal areas, benefit from the clean, nutrient-rich waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
The socio-economic contributions of aquaculture to coastal communities in Ireland are significant and multifaceted. Firstly, aquaculture provides vital employment opportunities in rural and remote areas where traditional fishing and agriculture might be in decline. Aquaculture not only helps to retain population in these regions but also supports local economies through direct and indirect job creation.
Additionally, aquaculture fosters economic diversification. Coastal communities traditionally dependent on fishing or tourism can achieve greater economic stability by integrating aquaculture into their local industries. This diversification can lead to a more resilient local economy, better able to withstand fluctuations in tourism or wild fish stocks. When I was a child, we would regularly fish for mackerel during the summer months and you would often swim by a shoal of them but last year the local fisher men said that they would be lucky to catch a handful!
For a map plotting activity in my class, I would break my class into 3 or 4 groups and give them
• Map of Ireland
• Outline of the Irish coast
• Google map pictures
• Access to google maps
• Pens/paper
• List of questions to answer
They will work in their groups to discuss suitable places to develop aquafarms. Why they think it is suitable/ are there coves/ beaches or villages nearby?
They will have to present their findings to the class and the other pupils can debate the findings.
This will be an excellent way for the pupils to explore the Irish coastline. -
Module 2 was really informative. I picked up some useful information and reaources on weather, climate, Wladamir Kopen’s 5 macro climates before learning about Ireland’s temperate marine climate where we experience mild, mixed weather conditions all year round.
Our “Goldilocks climate” is certainly wet and damp with no extreme temperatures so ideal for food production ie. agriculture and aquaculture. 65% of our land is suitable for agriculture with our west coast aquaculture predominant. The Atlantic ocean’s weathering of our coastlines has created our unique coastline of bays, inlets and islands essential for aquaculture production. I really enjoyed learning about Killery fjord, intertidal zones and the species that live there and thought the rocky shore zonation video was very interesting.
Here in Ireland we fish atlantic salmon, pacific rock oysters and blue Mussels on our wild atlantic coastline which contributes greatly to Ireland’s economy by providing employment, tourism, promoting sustainable practice, showcasing local Irish produce and innovation and of course the global export of produce to the global market.
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Module 2 highlighted to me that aquaculture is a thriving and evolving form of sustainable food production that contributes greatly to many local economies. The majority of aquaculture farms can be found mostly on the West coast of Ireland. This is due to the optimal physical environmental conditions (water quality, sheltered conditions, rugged coastlines, natural bays etc.) that are required for successful fish and shellfish farming.
Aquaculture farming offers communities employment through processing, distribution and farming. It can contribute additional revenue to these communities through sales of seafood products and possible investment in local infrastructure. It can also offer stability to communities through providing employment opportunities that may not be available in some of these rural locations. Aquaculture can also contribute to the development of a skilled local workforce through training and education. As aquaculture is a sustainable form of food production, it endeavours to only engage in farming practices that do not negatively impact the local environment. All of these factors contribute positively to the socio-economic stability and development of many coastal communities.
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Hi Azora,
These are some excellent points as to how aquaculture can also benefit the wider community. In ireland, there are just over two thousand people directly employed in aquaculture, but many others can also be employed indirectly such as accountants, fishmongers, and research scientists. Aquaculture is always striving for improvements, especially those which do not negatively harm the natural environment surrounding.
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I’ve been thinking a lot about the location of aquaculture farms in Ireland and how they can really benefit our coastal communities. Aquaculture farms, like those for salmon and oysters, are often situated in these areas because of the clean, nutrient-rich waters. These farms don’t just produce food; they also create jobs and support local economies. For instance, aquaculture provides steady employment opportunities in places like Donegal and Galway, which is crucial for areas that might not have many other job options. This can help keep younger people in the community instead of moving away for work. Also, these farms can boost local businesses. For example, restaurants that serve fresh, locally sourced seafood attract tourists and locals alike, which brings more money into the area. On a broader scale, promoting sustainable aquaculture practices can help ensure long-term environmental health, which is essential for maintaining these benefits. I believe incorporating these real-world examples into our teaching can help students understand the socio-economic importance of sustainable farming practices in their own communities. It’s fascinating to see how something as simple as a fish farm can have such a positive ripple effect on the surrounding area.
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I found this module great for providing insight into the location of aquacultural farms and the importance of various species for certain farms. I am from Wexford so I know this provides a lot of employment for people here, not only through fishermen/women but also in factories etc thereafter. However agriculture is also quite big in Wexford so it was interesting to see and learn about certain terrain not being suitable for agricultural farming and why certain areas are more suitable for aquacultural farming.
The salmon, muscle and oyster farms provide great employment opportunities in the West of Ireland but there also seems to be a wonderful tradition and culture celebrated in this too. It also is great for local restaurants/tourism as many food places in the west are renowned for serving wonderful fresh fish dishes. Observing the West as opposed to the south east coast you can see how the Atlantic Ocean can provide great opportunities for salmon farming.
I think the opportunities along the West coast for marine biologists are fantastic. It’s a job having taught 4th class for 3 years I have often heard a few children show interest in. The fact that there are opportunities to get qualifications through BIM and to also do diving training is great too. Not only can they study here but they can up skill their own training too and also it’s encouraging young people to stay in Ireland instead of emigrating. It is great to teach children that they can indeed become marine biologists in Ireland and stay in Ireland and the diversity of what can be explored on the various coastlines of Ireland too.
The aquaculture farms undoubtedly support local economies but the also help cultural heritage but aside from all of that it is such an interesting area to teach about in the classroom too. I think this would be really interesting in Wexford because in the classroom we could compare aquacultural farms in Wexford with those in the West of Ireland. I think it is so important for children to see careers they could have in the future in their local area. Even if marine biology isn’t their thing there are so many other opportunities this industry opens in the world of marketing, business, etc.
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Hi Eleanor,
There is great tradition and culture surrounding some of our seafood species here in Ireland ranging from our salmon of knowledge story, to oyster festivals such as the Galway Oyster Festival in September, and even in place names where the Irish for Sligo (Sligeach) meaning ‘abundance of shells’. Celebrating our seafood through the use of festivals and evets is a popular way of promoting Irish products and local Irish businesses. It also provides the youth with a chance to explore what they would like to pursue in future if they are interested in working in or around the ocean!
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Prior to studying this module, I was aware of the aquafarms on the west coast of Ireland but I never really sat and thought about why exactly they were located there. After watching these videos, I now know and understand that tides, shelter and space is so important to have a successful industry. I have seen the farms at Killary fjord and now understand that this is a perfect location since the current is not too strong. The islands in Connemara also have fish farms and I understand from this module that shelter is vital for these to succeed. At first I wondered how being next to islands was a necessity but I can see that the farms are located the other side of the islands for shelter. This industry is important for the community because it provides employment to the locals who work at these farms while also possibly adding to tourism in the area. Local restaurants will also benefit from having fresh produce which can be bought locally and advertised in their restaurants.
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I found this module particularly interesting because it highlights the importance of the west coast of Ireland socio-economically to the country as a whole.
The wild Atlantic Way along the west coast gets a lot of attention in terms of tourism. The location of the aquafarms here may stimulate this as a unique form of tourism. Undoubtedly, I have learned from further research the employment opportunities that are offered through these farms. Furthermore, the clean waters, rugged landscape, sheltered inlets and natural bays lend this area to this purpose.
I understand that rural areas such as these experience extremely high levels of emigration amongst young people as they search for employment opportunities. Highlighting and investing in these sustainable aquatic farming methods will aid this issue. Socially, keeping this as an industry leading job opportunity will keep people living in these areas. Economically, investing in these practices will ensure that Ireland continues to lead the way in its fresh fish and shellfish production.-
<p style=”text-align: left;”>Hi Killian, I agree with you about the Wild Atlantic Way being a great tourist attraction and how exploring aquaculture here could also attract further tourism experiences. I think children would enjoy learning about this too. The use of food festivals to promote local Irish produce are great. It’s also nice for children to learn about different employment opportunities aquafarms provide as it might inspire some to go into these areas when they are older.</p>
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I believe aquaculture farms and their location contribute hugely socio-economically to coastal communities. There are many areas of Ireland and coastal communities that are dependent on aquaculture, particularly on the west coast of Ireland and the lack of agriculture due to the mountains which dominate the landscape. Land features in these areas make aquaculture the most predominant type of farming. Aquaculture supports the coastal communities directly and indirectly. Firstly, it provides employment opportunities for citizens in areas of fishing. Atlantic salmon, pacific rock oysters and blue mussels are plentiful on the west coast of Ireland. The sector provides year-round, well-paid jobs and supports economic growth in rural, coastal and island areas. According to IFA “Irish aquaculture is worth €180m to the Irish economy, providing almost 2,000 direct jobs and contributing to 8,500 indirect jobs in the seafood sector, sustaining coastal communities.” Education courses and research projects also provide employment. Aquaculture also helps to keep waterways clean and sustainable aquaculture increases food production.
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Hi Orla,
Landscape is a major determining factor for farming, even when considering farming certain animals compared to others. When the landscape is too harsh, aquaculture may be the referred option and coastal communities see the benefit of this with two thousand direct jobs being provided by the sector. And it is not just the direct workers benefitting, as many others will indirectly be supported in their employment.
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This module has really highlighted the importance of the west coast of Ireland to aquaculture. The Atlantic coastline is the perfect place to provide a successful environment for aquaculture. Aquaculture farms in the west of Ireland, particularly in counties Kerry, Clare, and Galway, benefit immensely from the “Goldilocks climate” as mentioned in this module– a temperate climate that is not too hot nor too cold, creating ideal conditions for the cultivation of species like salmon, mussels, and oysters. This region’s pristine waters and rich marine environments further enhance the suitability for sustainable aquaculture operations.
The socio-economic contributions of these farms to coastal communities in Kerry, Clare, and Galway are substantial. Firstly, they generate essential employment opportunities. Aquaculture farms offer direct jobs in farming, processing, and distribution, which are crucial for the livelihoods of local residents. These jobs are particularly valuable in rural and remote areas where employment opportunities can be limited. Furthermore, these farms create indirect jobs in supporting sectors such as equipment supply, transportation, and maintenance.
Beyond employment, aquaculture farms stimulate local economies by increasing demand for local services. Employees and visitors to these farms spend money on hospitality, retail, and other services, injecting vital revenue into these communities. This economic activity helps sustain small businesses, supports community infrastructure, and fosters regional development.
Additionally, aquaculture promotes sustainable practices and enhances food security. By adopting environmentally friendly farming methods, these farms help preserve marine ecosystems, ensuring the long-term viability of the industry. This commitment to sustainability bolsters Ireland’s reputation for high-quality, responsibly sourced seafood, which can further enhance market opportunities both locally and internationally.-
Hi Rhonda,
Our coastal waters are definitely improving with the addition of mussels and oysters along our coastline, but we still have a lot of work to do to get them to a pristine conditions as other factors are playing a role in their condition. That’s a very good point as well! Because people will have to travel to these rural destinations, they will spend money on services in the locality promoting other businesses as well.
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Unfortunately I have very little knowledge on aquaculture. However, this module highlighted that the west coast is where aquaculture takes place in Ireland due to its easy access to ports/harbours/inlets and other features along the shores coastline which makes complete sense.
It was interesting to learn that Atlantic salmon is placed along the west coast of Ireland because most of the Atlantic Ocean coastline has deep water and is easy to reach because there are many piers and harbours. These salmon farms need shelter from storms as they need to be tucked in behind islands to be facing the Atlantic Ocean. Hence the west coast of Ireland is an ideal area for salmon farms for these reasons stated above.
Aquaculture farms contribute socio-economically to coastal communities as they provide people with a lot of job opportunities in the area. These jobs are particularly valuable in rural and remote areas where employment opportunities can be limited. Then this money would be more than likely spent locally by employees and people who are visiting the farms.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland, strategically located along its extensive and varied coastline, present a unique opportunity for socio-economic development in coastal communities. These farms are primarily situated in counties like Donegal, Galway, and Cork, where the pristine waters provide ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality seafood such as salmon, mussels, and oysters. One of the primary socio-economic contributions of aquaculture farms is job creation. These farms provide employment opportunities, ranging from direct roles in fish farming and processing to indirect jobs in logistics, marketing, and maintenance. For many coastal communities, where traditional fishing and agriculture may be declining, aquaculture offers a sustainable alternative that revitalizes local economies. The strategic location of aquaculture farms in Ireland not only harnesses the country’s natural marine resources but also serves as a catalyst for socio-economic growth.
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Hi Odhran,
We have to be careful not to over-use or deplete our natural resources, although once they can be used in a sustainable manner, people can get the benefits of the resources today while ensuring future generations have the same use of the resource. Farming our mussels and oysters in particular keeps our coastal waters clean while still providing a food source. Pressures in fisheries and agriculture will make aquaculture a more attractive working sector as it continues to strive towards sustainability, and hopefully other industries follow suit!
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<p style=”text-align: left;”>Absolutely, Odhran, aquaculture’s a lifeline for our coastal towns. It creates jobs and keeps our communities thriving, especially where the old industries are fading. Plus, it makes great use of our natural resources in places like Mayo, Galway, and Cork. It’s a real boost for local economies without a doubt.</p>
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I found this module very insightful and thought provoking. It was very interesting to learn how the geography and features of our coastline can be used to determine where an aquaculture farm is developed
Ireland’s aquaculture industry plays a crucial role in the socio-economic development of coastal communities. The location of aquaculture farms along the Irish coastline not only fosters sustainable food production but also generates many socio-economic benefits.Aquaculture farms in Ireland offer employment opportunities and supporting livelihoods. The presence of these farms contributes to the economy by reducing reliance on traditional sectors such as agriculture and fishing.
Aquaculture farms in Ireland have the potential to stimulate tourism and promote in coastal areas. Visitors can visit these farms to learn about sustainable aquaculture practices, sample fresh seafood products, and engage with local communities. This tourism influx not only boosts the local economy but also promotes environmental awareness. The location of aquaculture farms in Ireland represents a unique opportunity to harness the potential of coastal resources for socio-economic development.
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The tourism sector and aquaculture have worked hand in hand with the Taste the Atlantic – A seafood journey initiative which follows the Wild Atlantic Way, showcasing Ireland’s best sights alongside some of our best known seafood producers. This is just another aspect of Ireland’s high quality seafood industry being able to boost local economies on the more rural, Atlantic west coast. And success in aquaculture production may mean less production or landings based pressures for fisheries and agriculture.
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The eye-opener for me in this module was the opportunities for job creation. There’s significant potential for communities to benefit from job creation, a skilled workforce, and sustainable work environments through aquaculture. I also saw that aquaculture brings with it skilled specialties that can embed in a community and thereby making an area renowned for a certain product. This obviously brings massive economic benefits.
Growing up in Mayo, in the 80’s I’ve seen how poor socio-economic conditions can devastate communities, often forcing younger generations to leave in search of better opportunities. This exodus weakens local businesses, Gaelic football teams, and cultural traditions, potentially leading to their decline. While not the entire answer, aquaculture could be a major driver of an areas revival.
Aquaculture as describedi n this module can offer, new opportunities in Mayos case, it has different coastlines and could offer different types of aquaculture. So communities can leverage their unique geographical features to develop specialised aquaculture industries. And this is very marketable these days in an era where food quality and sustainability is at a premium. Irish food produced in pristine irish watters will always be in demand.
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From reading other participants forums, I am at ease to see that I am not that only on with limited aquaculture knowledge!. Having grown up on a farm, the word agriculture was part of everyday conversation, but unfortunately aquaculture wasnt, something that is shocking when the coastal town on Kinvara lays less than 6 miles away. I must be honest, growing up aquaculture and farming at sea was not something I was taught to appreciate or understand fully. From this module my whole thought process and understanding has changed for the better. The module was extremely effective and gave clear concise information regarding the topic for someone with very limited knowledge on the subject even though I am lover of sea food!!. We need to place more emphasis on the teaching of aquaculture in schools, to share and promote the importance of life at sea and how it contributes positively to our being, highlighting its impact to our local and wider world
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Hi Sarah,
I would agree with you that we do not delve enough in to Aquaculture in schools despite being an island and surrounded by water and the possibility that we may eventually depend on aquaculture for sustainable food sources from the ocean. I live and work near the beach and if only to explore the inter tidal zoned habitats with pupils, I feel I have gained so much information from that slide alone.
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I also found this module quite interesting especially how the landscape has an impact on the type of farming that takes place in the region. The west coast of Ireland being most suitable for Aquaculture due to it being predominately covered by mountains. It is clear that there is a wide range of socio-economic benefits that come with this also. One main benefit is job creation with the fishing of salmon, mussels and oysters. Furthermore there are also opportunities with regards to sustainable food practice, tourism, marketing and food production.
I think it would be an interesting topic to learn about with my class next year and I think it would be a nice idea to do a comparison between Aquaculture in the west of Ireland and within our own coastal community here at home. -
This module was highly informative and provided deeper insight into the geography of Ireland’s coastline and how its features can help determine ideal locations for aquaculture farms. Typically, we associate farming with agriculture, but my understanding has now expanded to include aquaculture. I particularly enjoyed the description of our climate as a ‘Goldilocks Climate’ where conditions are cool, damp, and rarely extreme. Learning about the North Atlantic Drift and its impact on the Atlantic Ocean’s temperature was fascinating. The mountainous terrain of Ireland’s West coast makes it unsuitable for land farming, making it a prime location for fish farming instead. Growing up in a fishing community and touring a salmon farm, I have observed that sheltered bays, inlets, and harbors are ideal for fish farming. I have also witnessed the socio-economic benefits of aquaculture farms firsthand—they create significant employment opportunities for local people, from the farms themselves to the factories that package the fish, the ice plants, and more.
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Hi Jennifer,
The majority of Ireland would associate agriculture and farming together, but then have little to no knowledge of what aquaculture is. Both are essential aspects to Ireland’s food production. And as you mentioned, the benefits to rural areas is significant and stretches out to support many indirect businesses.
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Reflecting on Ireland’s aquaculture farms, I see their potential for socio-economic benefits to coastal communities. Positioned along Ireland’s vast coastline, these farms are ideally located to utilize marine resources, focusing on species like salmon, mussels, and oysters. The positioning of these farms really helps us to maximise the resources that we have in our country.
Aquaculture can improve coastal areas facing declining traditional fisheries and limited job opportunities by providing employment in farming, harvesting, processing, and distribution. This diversification can stabilize local economies and reduce outmigration which is a problem experienced by plenty of Irish towns.
Additionally, aquaculture supports related industries like equipment manufacturing, feed production, and tourism. Local restaurants and markets benefit from fresh seafood, attracting visitors and boosting local spending. This is particularly important for the tourism industry which these areas can heavily depend on. -
Aquaculture farms in Ireland significantly contribute socio-economically to coastal communities by creating direct and indirect employment, thereby reducing local unemployment rates and stimulating economic growth. These farms boost local businesses, such as transportation, retail, and hospitality, by increasing economic activity. They enhance food security by providing a reliable source of fresh, locally sourced seafood, reducing dependency on imports and improving residents’ health.
Sustainable practices in aquaculture help maintain marine ecosystems’ health, serving as models for other industries and ensuring the long-term viability of fisheries. These farms support cultural heritage by preserving fishing traditions and attracting tourism, which further boosts the local economy. Collaborations with educational institutions offer research opportunities and position communities as hubs for aquaculture expertise. Profits from successful operations can be reinvested into community development projects, enhancing residents’ quality of life. Additionally, aquaculture can contribute to tourism through facility tours and seafood tastings, bringing extra revenue to coastal areas.
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Really interesting mapping exercise. I work with Junior Cert students in a special school. This exercise would fit right in with their Geography course. Students love looking at google earth and aerial photos to find features, but as city folk we usually concentrate on urban features. I could definitely use some of the info here about location of different types of aquaculture and ask students could they figure out a good spot. We also learn about coastal features so it could be tied into that too.
This would lead into the idea of how the location of industry effects local areas, both positively and negatively. Positively, aquaculture will bring employment to an area, both directly and indirectly. It may sustain the population levels of a rural place, which could keep schools and local businesses open too. There could possibly be some negative effects, not mentioned in this module, such as pollution, or a blot on the landscape.
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Module 2 proved to be very insightful and thoght provoking. It has highlighted the importance of the West coast of Ireland for Aquaculture. We are blessed with a beautiful long coastline here in Ireland which we can use to develop our Aquaculture industry further. Already the Aquaculture and fishing industry employs over 16,000 people and this is hugely important in Ireland’s coastal communities. These industries make it possible for these towns and villages to survive -the rise in population levels would keep schools and local businesses open. Aquaculture farms in Ireland have the potential to stimulate tourism, offer employment opportunities and support livelihoods.
It’s important that we as teachers need to place more empasis on the teachin of Aquaculture in schools, to share and promote the importance of life at sea and how it contributes positively to our lives.-
Hi BRÍD-SÍLE,
Well done on this. This is exactly the point of the aquaculture industry here in Ireland. It is especially important on the west coast of Ireland where many of the Aquaculture farms are located.
Great to hear that you plan to incorporate Aquaculture into future lessons. The next three lessons will provide more information on the industry from a socioeconomics, sustainability and nutrition perspective.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland are located along the beautiful coastline, where the ocean provides perfect conditions for growing seafood like salmon, mussels, and oysters. These farms are very important for the people living in coastal communities. I live in Co Kerry and can see the impact it has in places like Cromane, Valentia and Portmagee. My grandfather worked in the fisheries in Cromane in Co Kerry in the 1950’s and 60’sThe two pubs in Portmagee draw tourists from around the world just to eat the fresh seafood.
Aquaculture creates jobs for local families, helping them earn a living and stay in their hometowns. This is especially important in rural areas where traditional fishing jobs have become less common. The seafood farms also support other local businesses, like those that process and package the seafood or provide equipment for the farms. By selling their products around the world, these farms bring money into the community, making it a better place to live. Plus, they use sustainable practices, which means they take care of the environment while helping the community grow and thrive.
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Hi Catherine,
Cromane in Kerry is an excellent example of a rural area which is very suitable for aquaculture, specifically growing mussels and oysters. Cromane hosts a seafood festival every September in which they showcase some of their high quality seafood and is another example of Ireland’s aquaculture being able to indirectly support other industries such as tourism.
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Ireland’s coastal regions are ideal for aquaculture due to their clean waters and favorable climate, significantly boosting socio-economic development. Aquaculture, particularly in counties like Donegal, Galway, and Cork, provides sustainable employment, benefiting local economies by creating jobs in farming, processing, and logistics. This diversification reduces reliance on seasonal industries such as fishing and tourism.
Additionally, aquaculture supports food security and enhances Ireland’s reputation for high-quality seafood exports, increasing trade revenues. The growth of this sector often leads to infrastructural improvements, such as better transport and communication networks, aiding community development.
Environmentally, well-managed aquaculture reduces overfishing and supports marine conservation, fostering biodiversity. Educational initiatives tied to aquaculture raise awareness about sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Thus, aquaculture farms contribute to socio-economic resilience in Ireland’s coastal areas, balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.
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This module is so informative of the geographical and climate features influencing aquaculture in Ireland. We are lucky to have the influence of the Gulf Stream, which prevents having the extreme climates of other countries located in a similar position but not close to the Gulf Stream. We certainly have a ‘Goldilocks’ climate and this is key to enabling us to have a quality agriculture and aquaculture industry. Even though certain regions are more suitable to one type of farming than another, places in the west of Ireland which do not have good agricultural land are compensated by the geological features of bays, inlets, peninsulas, estuaries and islands, fjords, harbours and piers that allows aquaculture to succeed. It is an important aspect of future sustainable food production as the prediction of population growth and decrease in land available for agriculture, means expansion in aquaculture is essential. The socioeconomic advantages associated with aquaculture are important with the benefits for local communities, from direct employment to indirect employment and services, bringing financial spending to communities. The provision of lesson plans for map reading is a very useful resource.
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While travelling & working abroad at time I was a little embarrassed to be so reluctant to eat/know about the different types of fish/sea creatures that are seen as delicacies on other menus. I was always met with the remark-but you live on small island, how can you not like fish! My father was a butcher, so we preferred the bovines as our food source-I suppose our agriculture provides so many jobs in the same way aquaculture provides employment for the coastal areas. Not only that but it provides a huge area of education and research, science, leisure activities and indeed the food industry. I was intrigued to hear how farming on land will soon become a rarity and how the area of aquaculture can be grown exponentially for sustainable growth as currently only 1-2% of our world’s oceans are used for aquaculture. The various intertidal zones will determine the type of fishing taking place and these undoubtedly have a huge knock-on effect both socially and economically.
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Hi Catherine,
Great insights here. I feel many people in Ireland are guilty of not eating much seafood. Yearly seafood consumption in 1970s in Ireland was only 11kg/person which has increase to 23kg/person today. This is interesting to show how eating habits are changing and hopefully in the future through sustainable aquaculture we can increase this number even further to catch up to countries like Portugal which is 55kg/person.
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Lesson plan for the map plotting activity using geographical and mathematical skills covered:
Firstly, I would brainstorm with the children what they know about maps and do a KWL chart to go along this. In small groups we would discuss with the children and pick out key features from maps of our local area here in Carlingford, Co. Louth e.g. inlets, sea, lighthouse, beaches etc.
Next, when the children have a key understanding of the key features the lesson will progress to the many different layers entailed in a map and eth geographical and mathematical skills used e.g. dept, symmetry, water current strategy, contour lines, human activity, time of year, scale, compass, cardinal points etc.
Along with this, in pairs, the children will go on online mapping software e.g. Google maps to local our local section of our area being studies and use the view finder to further explore details for their map plotting.
Each group are invite to create their own map along with my help.
We will do a review and reflection and self-evaluation what worked well and what could have worked better with our map plotting activity
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Prior to engaging in the second module ‘Where Do We Farm’, I was aware that the vast majority of aquafarms and aquaculture occurs along the west coast of Ireland in counties like Cork, Galway and Mayo. However, I have been enlightened as to why this type of farming occurs here. For example, the west coast is unsuitable for more traditional farming methods with its uneven terrain, and also due to the natural inlets and deep waters that are littered up along the west coast from Cork to Donegal. These farms can contribute socio-economically to coastal communities through a number of ways. Firstly, these farms provide employment to local communities which is crucial for people to stay in the west of Ireland. Also, the produce from these farms can be sold in local restaurants which would then lead to more business opportunities in these areas. Finally, these aquafarms are unique sites and could certainly be used as tourists attractions along the already popular Wild Atlantic Way.
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Hi Tommy, well done on this. Ireland’s aquaculture industry employs over 16,000 people directly and indirectly here in Ireland. As you mentioned above, this is particularly on Ireland’s west coast, with strong currents and deep waters from the Atlantic Ocean providing an excellent home to Irelands farmed marine species.
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Enjoyed this module so much. We have such potential to develop further fush farm im sure!! Many benefits and so much coast line.
Production: Ireland is known for its high-quality salmon and shellfish farming. Key species include Atlantic salmon, mussels, oysters, and trout.
Employment: The aquaculture sector provides direct employment in coastal and rural areas, helping to sustain local communities. This includes jobs in farming, processing, and distribution.
Economic Contribution:
Revenue: The industry generates substantial revenue through both domestic sales and exports. Irish seafood products are renowned globally, contributing significantly to export earnings.
Supply Chain: The sector supports a broader supply chain, including feed production, equipment supply, and research and development activities.
Sustainability and Innovation:
Sustainable Practices: Ireland has a reputation for implementing sustainable aquaculture practices, which enhance the long-term viability of the sector. This includes the use of eco-friendly farming techniques and rigorous environmental monitoring.
Research and Development: Investment in R&D helps improve efficiency, disease management, and environmental impact, driving the industry forward.
Regulation and Quality:
Regulation: The Irish aquaculture industry is highly regulated to ensure the quality and safety of its products. This involves compliance with both national and EU regulations.
Quality Assurance: Initiatives like the Organic Trust and the Quality Seafood Program ensure that Irish seafood meets high standards, further enhancing its marketability.
Economic Challenges and Opportunities:
Challenges: The industry faces challenges such as environmental concerns, competition from other countries, and the impact of climate change.
Opportunities: There are opportunities for growth through market expansion, particularly in Asian markets, and by diversifying the species farmed.
Overall, fish farming along the Irish coast is a vital component of the national economy, contributing to employment, export revenue, and the sustainable use of marine resources. -
Locations of Aquafarms in Ireland
Aquafarms are located mainly along the western coast of Ireland, which provides ideal conditions for both marine and freshwater aquaculture. Key regions include:
Donegal: Known for salmon and trout farming.
Galway: Home to many mussel and oyster farms, especially in areas like Kilkieran Bay.
Mayo: Another significant area for salmon farming.
Kerry: Features both fish and shellfish farms, benefiting from the clean waters of the Atlantic.
Cork: Includes a mix of aquaculture activities, from mussels and oysters to seaweed cultivation.
Socioeconomic Contributions of Aquaculture in IrelandAquaculture plays a crucial role in Ireland’s economy and society:
Economic Contributions
Employment: The aquaculture industry provides jobs in coastal and rural areas, helping to support local communities. Jobs range from farm workers to scientists and technicians.
Exports: Aquaculture products, especially premium salmon and shellfish, are significant exports, contributing to Ireland’s trade balance.
Local Businesses: The industry supports a range of local businesses, including equipment suppliers, transport companies, and processing facilities.
Social ContributionsCommunity Development: Aquaculture helps sustain rural coastal communities, providing a source of income and supporting local services.
Education and Training: The industry offers opportunities for education and training, helping people develop skills in marine biology, aquaculture technology, and environmental management.
Food Security: By providing a steady supply of seafood, aquaculture helps ensure food security and offers consumers a healthy, locally produced food option.
Examples of Specific ContributionsJob Creation: In areas like Donegal and Kerry, aquaculture is a major employer, with farms providing year-round employment.
Supporting the Economy: In Galway, the shellfish industry, including mussels and oysters, is a vital part of the local economy, with products often exported to high-value markets.
Innovation and Research: Universities and research institutions in Ireland are involved in aquaculture research, helping to develop more sustainable and efficient farming methods. This research often leads to innovations that benefit the industry and the environment.
Sustainability and Community EngagementThe success of aquaculture in Ireland also depends on its sustainability and the acceptance by local communities:
Environmental Practices: Farms must adhere to strict environmental standards to minimize their impact on the surrounding ecosystems.
Community Involvement: Regular engagement with local communities ensures that their concerns are addressed, and the benefits of aquaculture are shared.
Overall, aquaculture in Ireland is a dynamic and essential part of the coastal economy, supporting jobs, exports, and community development while promoting sustainable practices. -
Aquaculture farms in Ireland are predominantly located along its extensive and rugged coastline, offering a rich environment for cultivating species like salmon, mussels, and oysters. These farms are strategically positioned in areas such as Donegal, Galway, and Cork, where pristine waters and favorable conditions support high-quality production. Socio-economically, aquaculture significantly benefits coastal communities. It provides steady employment opportunities, ranging from farm workers to processing and distribution roles, which are crucial in regions often limited in diverse job prospects. This industry fosters local economies by stimulating related businesses, including supply chains and tourism. Moreover, the presence of aquaculture encourages sustainable practices, aligning with Ireland’s environmental commitments, which can enhance the marketability of Irish seafood globally. Investments in aquaculture infrastructure also lead to improved local facilities and services, benefiting the wider community. Overall, aquaculture farms not only contribute to the economic resilience of coastal areas but also promote social cohesion by supporting livelihoods and fostering a sense of pride in sustainable, locally-sourced food production.
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Hi Louise,
You raise a good point, as traditionally these regions in Ireland provided less employment opportunities than places such as Dublin on the east coast. Aquaculture is anther industry which excels in these regions due to their geographic features, and in turn can provide excellent employment opportunities working directly or indirectly with the resources!
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As someone who grew up in the midlands of Ireland, my knowledge of aquaculture and sea farming is minimal at this point in my life. I know of a man who farmed mussels on the west coast of Ireland for 25 years and he, along with his business partners provided for their family and employed many people young and old in the local community. I enjoyed learning in this module about the different reasons and factors at play for how aquaculture can and does thrive in the west coast of Ireland and in the east with Dublin Bay providing some of the best prawns in the world (I’ve heard!). Learning about aquaculture kind of is opening my eyes to a new industry and a new way of life that is reality for many people on the coast in the same way that agriculture is for many Irish people on land. In rural coastal areas, without aquaculture being supported, the opportunities for people to farm on the land is low and encourages locals to move out of those areas so, the importance of investment and support for aquaculture in these areas becomes more and more real.
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Hi John, it’s great to see you had some knowledge of the aquaculture industry growing up. Mussel farming has been around in Ireland for several years and provides many direct and indirect jobs to the west coast of Ireland. Over 16,000 people are directly and indirectly employed in Ireland’s aquaculture industry which provides many jobs to rural coastal areas along Ireland’s west coast.
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I think it’s both interesting and fascinating where the most prevalent aquaculture businesses have been set up. To me it screams a culture that started out once as a necessity over in the West of Ireland where the topography and the geology of the landscape proved as a challenge to the local people and how they adapted to use their environment to the best of their ability. Now, through persistence and expertise they’ve grown their once primitive business into a profitable, far reaching and successful venture.
Ireland is one of the main producers of high quality seafood to mainland Europe where fish and seafood is a much more common dietary choice. It’s so interesting how our ‘Goldilocks climate’ and how so many of natures wonders, such as the Gulf Stream contribute to the Irish Aquaculture landscape and even to the agricultural landscape through Ireland’s temperate or oceanic climate.
This of course all impacts directly on the socio-economic landscape through growing and developing industry in and even more ‘around’ our island. It’s so interesting to hear our out untapped resources in our countries waters will likely be the resources that Irish people will depend on long into the future. So, the question maybe not how this has directly affected our socio and economic culture up to now but more how it will massively affect our socio-economic culture long into the future.-
Hi James, fascinating comments. Ireland’s aquaculture industry will have a massive impact on socioeconomic culture in the near future. Agriculture has already reached its limit due to limited land resources, which means we will need to look at new alternatives to obtain our protein sources. As of now, we use less than 1% of our oceans for aquaculture and aquaculture plays a huge role in global food security and throughout the next 50 years, we will become highly dependent on this industry.
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Aquaculture style farming is mainly located along the western side of Ireland. I believe that this originated out of necessity rather than design. Some of Ireland’s poorest families throughout history were banished to our western shores and like through Irish spun the straws or their fortune into gold. They turned what was one stage a necessity into a growing and essential industry for Ireland and mainland Europe.
As to answer the question of ‘where do we farm’ the obvious answer is on the rugged and unyielding coasts of the West of Ireland but the reality is that the beginnings of the Irish aquaculture landscape started as places of necessity rather than design. -
The location of aquaculture farms in Ireland holds significant socio-economic importance for coastal communities. These farms not only provide a source of livelihood but also contribute to the local economy and community well-being. By reflecting on the strategic placement of aquaculture farms along the Irish coast, we can appreciate how they intertwine with the fabric of coastal life, offering employment opportunities, supporting local businesses, and fostering a sense of connection to the sea.
Aquaculture farms in Ireland play a vital role in sustaining coastal communities by creating jobs, generating income, and boosting economic activity. The presence of these farms not only ensures a fresh and local supply of seafood but also promotes tourism and cultural exchange. Moreover, the relationship between aquaculture and coastal communities goes beyond economic benefits; it fosters a sense of stewardship towards the marine environment and encourages sustainable practices that preserve the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.
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Ireland certainly has a ‘Goldilocks Climate’ with damp, cool and rarely extreme weather conditions. The ‘Goldilocks Climate’ is an excellent way of describing Ireland’s climate to children. I thought the map of Ireland showing the location of aquaculture farming around us is an outstanding resource. The map helps the children become aware of the Aquaculture that is taking place near where they live and also makes them aware of Aquaculture that is taking place in other areas around the country.
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I have learned that aquaculture offers numerous benefits to local communities.
1. Economic Development
Job Creation: Aquaculture creates direct employment opportunities in fish farming, processing, distribution, and related services. Indirect jobs are also generated in areas such as equipment supply and maintenance, feed production, and transportation.
2. Food SecurityLocal Food Supply: Aquaculture provides a reliable and sustainable source of protein and other essential nutrients, helping to enhance food security and reduce dependence on wild fisheries.
3. Sustainable Resource UseEfficient Land Use: Aquaculture can be practiced on land unsuitable for traditional agriculture, such as coastal areas and saline soils, making it a versatile and efficient use of available space.
4. Community DevelopmentInfrastructure Improvement: The establishment of aquaculture operations often leads to improvements in local infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and water supply, benefiting the entire community.
5. Environmental BenefitsHabitat Restoration: Some forms of aquaculture, like shellfish and seaweed farming, can help restore natural habitats by improving water quality and providing habitats for other marine species.
Waste Utilization: Integrated aquaculture systems can utilize waste from one species as a resource for another, promoting more sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.Aquaculture offers a wide range of benefits to local communities, from economic development and job creation to enhanced food security and environmental sustainability. By investing in aquaculture, communities can build a more resilient and prosperous future, leveraging local resources and skills to meet global demands for sustainable seafood.
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Along the west coast of Ireland in counties such as Mayo, Cork, and Kerry, aquaculture is the predominant type of farming. The landscape, including poor land and highlands, makes it less suited to agriculture. Living in Leinster, I am more familiar with agriculture but this module has sparked an interest in aquaculture. On the West Coast, aquaculture occurs in bays, inlets, and shorelines where there is shelter from the full force of the Atlantic Ocean. Local coastal communities are socio-economically supported both directly and indirectly by aquaculture. It creates employment in these communities in various roles such as aquaculture engineers, scientists, and technologists. It therefore aids community development by creating this range of jobs. It also provides premium seafood to an area to sustain healthy living. While in these coastal regions, many people including myself purchase fresh fish to consume either from a local restaurant or fishmongers. This also economically benefits these areas.
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Hi Rachel,
Although Leinster may not be the best suited region for aquaculture, there are still some areas of high importance such as Rosslare in Wexford and Carlingford in Louth which are really important for shellfish farming! The range of opportunities associated with aquaculture is very broad and this allows a host of people to become involved in this sector.
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Living on the Wild Atlantic Way, I can see how Aquaculture and fish farming is of great importance, providing jobs locally contributing to the survival of our local communities and providing jobs to allow people to live and thrive in their locality. These aquaculture farms provide immediate income to those they employ, both full-time and part-time, however they provide support to the local food businesses, from shops to restaurants. They also support a variety of other businesses and social groups, from transportation to the local GAA club. Their contributions ensure we can have a wider choice in the food we consume, supporting the nutritional diet of those living locally and further. There is also great scope for exporting their produce, which supports the wider economy, which hopefully feeds back financial support locally. They are also a fundamental part of the Wild Atlantic Food experience, which supports local tourism, from hotels, to bus transportation to tourist trips.
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I found this module very interesting and informative. The map of Ireland highlighting the location of aqua farms was a fantastic visual. I believe the location of aquaculture farms in Ireland plays a crucial role in boosting the socio-economic development of coastal communities. By providing employment opportunities, supporting local businesses, and contributing to the overall economy, these farms can truly make a difference in the lives of those living in the area. I think aquaculture farms in Ireland can further enhance their socio-economic contributions to coastal communities by actively engaging with local residents, supporting sustainable practices, and investing in community development projects. By working together and focusing on long-term benefits, these farms can truly make a positive impact on the overall well-being of the coastal communities they are a part of.
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Hi Caoimhe,
The geographic factor influencing aquaculture farms, has major socioeconomic benefits especially for the west of Ireland. Through raising awareness and striving for a social licence to operate for aquaculture, more people working directly and indirectly will benefit from it as a resource.
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Aquaculture farms are predominantly along the western coast of Ireland. I live on the Mayo/Galway border and was not aware of this until beginning this course. Mayo has many fish farms and takes advantage of its bays and inlets. Galway on the other hand is known for salmon fishing.
These fish farms contribute significantly to coastal regions across Ireland. They provide employment opportunities, the farms create direct jobs in management and labour. They also create indirect jobs such as retail and transport of goods. These jobs can be hugely important to these coastal communities as many of them have declining and ageing populations. Hopefully these jobs can pump some life into these regions.
There is also opportunities for economic growth as it also generates revenue for the farms and for the local businesses that supply goods and services to the industry.
Also, export of farmed fish and seafood from these regions adds value to the Irish economy in gerneral, contributing to GDP growth. -
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This was such an informative and fascinating module. I knew so little about aquaculture and had never given thought to why Ireland, and particularly the west coast of our island is so suited to aquaculture. The rocky, mountainous regions that dominate the western counties mean that these counties are unsuitable in the main part for agriculture. We know from our history of the Great Famine that these areas were hardest hit with starvation and emigration. The Atlantic Ocean which buffets and erodes our rugged shoreline has ensured that islands, inlets, bays and peninsulas are in abundance. Because of the Gulf Stream the Atlantic Ocean brings a mild ‘Goldilocks’ climate creating a perfect temperature for Atlantic Salmon net farms, Pacific Rocks Oysters and Blue Mussels. Killary Fjord also is suited to aquaculture. It is heartening to hear how sustainable these farms are. Very interesting to hear about the 130 Pacific Rock Oyster farms and how they provide a vey real alternative source of protein to this provided via agriculture, lessening pressure on land, for which there is such competition. These farms support local communities along the western front both directly and indirectly. The Wild Atlantic way draws tourists to many little fishing towns and villages, providing jobs in so many hospitality sectors, businesses and places of employment that would have been particularly hard hit through the Covid pandemic. Donegal and Waterford between them export 60% of our oysters bringing huge revenue to these counties and the country as a whole.
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Assignment 1:
Discuss the importance of aquaculture and the factors influencing farm locations.
Mapping Exercise: Students will identify suitable coastal areas using maps and spatial thinking.
Problem Solving: why certain areas are more suitable for aquaculture based on geographical featuresAssignment 2:
Aquaculture farms in Ireland, primarily located on the western Atlantic coastline, play a crucial role in supporting local coastal communities. These farms provide employment opportunities, boost local economies, and contribute to sustainable food production. The unique geographical features, such as sheltered bays and inlets, make these areas ideal for aquaculture. By fostering a connection between the environment and the economy, aquaculture helps maintain the socio-economic stability of coastal regions. Aquaculture farms provide jobs for local residents, ranging from farm workers to administrative staff. These employment opportunities enhance livelihoods and foster community growth. The revenue generated by aquaculture contributes to the local economy. It supports businesses, infrastructure development, and public services, ultimately benefiting the entire community. By cultivating fish, shellfish, and seaweed, these farms contribute to Ireland’s food security. They reduce dependence on imported seafood and promote sustainable practices. Aquaculture farms often implement eco-friendly practices. They monitor water quality, minimize waste, and protect coastal ecosystems, ensuring a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. -
As a 6th class Primary School teacher in Dublin with a passion for fishing but limited knowledge of Irish aquaculture, I’ve been exploring the impact of aquaculture farms on our coastal communities. These farms, strategically located along Ireland’s clean and nutrient-rich coastal waters, are fascinating in how they blend with our natural environment while contributing significantly to local economies.
Aquaculture farms provide much-needed jobs in coastal areas, supporting families and keeping younger generations rooted in their communities. They also stimulate local businesses, from suppliers to markets, creating a robust economic ecosystem. Additionally, these farms contribute to food security by providing a consistent supply of seafood, which is crucial as wild fish stocks face increasing pressure.
In the classroom, I see a wonderful opportunity to bridge my passion for fishing with teaching about aquaculture. We can investigate how these farms operate through project-based learning, perhaps building small aquaponics systems to illustrate sustainable practices. Discussions on the socio-economic benefits of aquaculture can be linked to lessons in geography and economics, helping students understand the broader impact on our country. By exploring this topic, I aim to instill a sense of environmental stewardship and introduce students to potential careers in aquaculture, ultimately enriching their education with real-world connections.
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Finding out more about Irish aquaculture farms and the primary species they handle has been interesting. It is evident that the majority of the farms are situated near coasts, which offer both the ideal production conditions and some of the required infrastructure. On the other hand, aquaculture seems to offer many chances for individuals to stay around and make use of their local resources. From the start of the real produce’s production to its eventual sale, jobs may be provided in addition to other sectors like tourism, food trails, etc. The industry needs the assistance of BIM, which provides a range of training programs in areas including management development, seafood processing, and commercial diving, to mention a few. Also, export of farmed fish and seafood from these regions adds value to the Irish economy in general, contributing to GDP growth. GDP has a positive on the economy as it boosts employment. This is especially important for Irish farming at sea.
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The location of aquaculture farms in Ireland is very important. I used to live very close to a bay where salmon fishing was taking place. It was clear this had huge benefits for the local community. The pier was always bustling, local shops and markets sold the fish and many other items which was great for supporting local. It brought a great sense of community especially during the summer when tourists came around and enjoyed being steeped in the local industry. Having said that, throughout my life-time there have been difficult times for people in the industry. Quotas, meant fishers were discarding fish as they were over quota. This was very difficult as the demand was there for the fish. It was also difficult when the laws changed over the availability of fishing waters for Irish boats. I think it is also fair to say, the lifestyle can be less than appealing for younger families and people at home. It can also be a dangerous job where dangerous waters etc. are involved.
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Hi Laura,
That’s great to hear some of the benefits within your local community from the salmon farm being nearby! And you have highlighted some of the more recent issues fisheries have been facing with discards and quotas, this is leaving the aquaculture industry as a promising sector to move into while trying to improve the fisheries sector.
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Having completed this module I feel it is very important when approaching the study of aquaculture with my students to point out to them that the location of the majority of sea farming and aquaculture in Ireland offers a lot of opportunities, benefits and jobs in those areas, especially where it is well managed and the communities are fully invested in sustainability of the environment. I was very surprised to learn that only 1-2% of our world’s oceans are used for aquaculture and I think this fact will definitely pique my students’ interest in this topic and help them to realise that it is a growing industry and not something that should be ignored. It is also very important as a teacher to expose my students to the many reasons why this industry faces challenges such as concerns about the environment, red tape and changes in the demand and market for seafood. These challenges are motivation for innovation and improved research so that the industry continues to grow and adapt. These issues are very important for the whole community in the areas where aquaculture is prevalent. The students will look into how this industry has helped to revitalise areas that were once in decline and encourage young people to stay in those areas or return having previously left for more opportunities that weren’t available in their local communities.
I will enjoy seeing the students engage in research around the innovations that have emerged in this industry and recognise how interesting and exciting aquaculture in Ireland can be as an area of study or even an industry that they might like to get into themselves after education. In recent times there is a huge emphasis on the environment for students, and aquaculture as an industry is a perfect case study on how properly sustainable practices with regard to waste management, site selection and environmentally friendly farming techniques can affect communities. The additional resources provided at the end of this module are excellent and will really enhance the learning experience for my students.
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As we know agriculture is is the preferred farming that takes place on the good terrain .Along the coastline of Ireland we tend to have mountainous rugged land which is poor animal or arable farming conditions. It is in these areas along our coastline we see the development of aquaculture.We see an increasing number of salmon , mussels and oyster farm along the Western seaboard especially .These farms can be small family run business to larger farms that we can see with the salmon fisheries. From seeing them along the shores of the river Foyle they are gradually expanding and contributing more to the economy. They may employ small numbers directly and the work may be part time but the contribution to the local economy reaches further. Providing fresh produce to the local restaurants and shops creates more awareness and encourages people to eat more fish. This is a goal of the aquaculture industry. We are an island nation and should be using our asset of the fantastic coastline with clean waters to produce some of the best seafood in the world.This module has been very informative with regards climate and sea currents and I can see it of being of interest to kids .
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Aquaculture in Ireland is undertaken along the wonderful, wild, western Atlantic coastline in bays, inlets and on the shoreline primarily but not exclusively in Kerry, Clare ,Galway and Donegal. I have just returned from a wonderful hiking/ adventure trip to Donegal and as we drove to climb Mount Errigal we spotted fish farms on route. Ireland benefits immensely from a ‘Goldilocks’ climate ( temperate – not too hot or too cold) . Activity 2 in the module details mapping an oyster farm. Without doubt Aquaculture farms contribute greatly socioeconomically to the coastal communities where they are located. One of the primary socioeconomic contributions of these farms is job creation , both directly and indirectly. Fishermen/women, shop assistants, chefs and waiters/waitresses are some of the occupations that are generated from the Aquaculture industry.
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There is an oyster farm a few miles from where I live and back in the dark ages, when I was young, this oyster farm was a great place for the young lads of the day to get a part time job. I’m sure it was tough work but back then it was deemed more suitable for the stronger amongst us. My brother enjoyed his time working there. Not only providing income to those working there, aquaculture would also stimulate local economies by generating income and increasing demand for the local goods and services. It would also provide a very specific skill development to those working in the aquaculture farms.
I thought the map work activity was very useful and I would like to tie this in with a potential trip to our local oyster farm (although I wonder if health and safety would disallow this). It would be interesting to learn how many of the children in the class know that there is such a thing as an oyster farm not to mind one on our doorstep. -
Based on the information provided in this module, especially the visual maps and diagrams, it is interesting to see where aquaculture farms are predominantly located in Ireland. Before seeing the map of the predominant areas of farming in Ireland, I would have thought that aquaculture farms would have been dotted around the entire island of Ireland but found it insightful to hear why aquaculture farms are favoured in the west coast of Ireland. This coastline provides an ideal environment for aquaculture, benefiting from the temperate climate, nutrient-rich Atlantic currents as well as plentiful coastal access and proximity to ports for smoother transportation.
Aquaculture provides direct jobs in farming, processing, and distribution, as well as indirect jobs in supporting industries such as equipment supply, maintenance, and transportation. Having continued access to locally produced seafood minimises the need for importation and inputs time, money and resources back into local communities.
As I learned in the previous module, Aquaculture farms often collaborate with universities and research institutions. For local communities, this provides opportunities for education and skill development, particularly for young people potentially reducing the number of young people emigrating to upskill.
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I agree Laura that the Aquaculture industry provides a great opportunity for studying specific marine biology and marine engineering etc. It is good for colleges to get involved and to work in tandem with the industry to meet future needs as the industry grows and branches out into the farming of other species of marine life
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Having rewatched the external video explaining the gulf stream and how it works it’s a good personal reminder of how climate change and global warming can indeed make a difference to us here . Sometimes I’m guilty of thinking sure temperate climate here it won’t change much if the degrees warm us up and even guilty of wanting warmer climate. However seeing the video again for how if.the gulf stream stopped in effect our hot water pump the changes would be detrimental.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland, often located along the coast, play a crucial role in supporting coastal communities socio-economically. These farms provide employment opportunities, reducing local unemployment rates and fostering economic stability. By cultivating seafood like salmon, mussels, and oysters, aquaculture farms contribute to local food supply and can boost the economy through exports. Additionally, they encourage related businesses, such as equipment suppliers and processing facilities, creating a broader economic impact. The presence of aquaculture also promotes sustainable practices, ensuring the long-term health of marine ecosystems. This sustainable approach helps maintain biodiversity and supports the fishing industry. Overall, aquaculture farms are vital for the socio-economic development of Ireland’s coastal areas, providing jobs, supporting local economies, and promoting environmental sustainability.
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Hi James,
‘Necessity’ as the saying goes ‘is the mother of invention’. Like you mntioned, the natural evolution of fishing for familial survival is the development of more sustainable fishing methods, which has led to the evolution of aquaculture. We were recently on a trip to Carrick-a-reed rope bridge. The local guide explained how the waters under the bridge once teemed with runs of North Atlantic salmon. The locals devised a strategy of placing a funnel-type net between the island and the main land. They winced in the net using a purpose built crane. The fishermen ensured there were barrels of ice waiting into which they packed the salmon, keeping it as fresh as possible. Strapping these barrels to their backs, they would walk across the rope bridge carrying this load. That evening those same fish would be served up in the major cities of Ireland and Britain. Such an interesting story.
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Aquaculture farms are a great industry for the West Coast of Ireland because generally speaking the land along this coast is not that suitable for agricultural farming. The area is generally less populated than the East Coast and so the requirement for seclusion for aquaculture is satisfied once popular areas or beaches are avoided in the location of Aquacultural farms. They are a great contribution to the socio-economic life of the communities in Donegal, Mayo Galway and other counties along the Atlantic West Coast. Only 1-2% of Irish waters are currently being used for Aquaculture so it would seem that there is a good future ahead to provide employment to people who can stay in their communities or move to the West from other places. The coastlie is ideal because it offers deep water, strong currents or sheltered areas with gentle currents, and nutrient rich water that is unpolluted.
Jobs like Skippering a boat, Marine engineering, diving, seafood processing, graphic designers for food packaging, health & safety workers, passenger boat skippers and in radio communications are all possible employment options for these areas that have been traditionally depleted by emigration.
So the farming of salmon, oysters and mussels as the top 3 species is a promising future for these counties.
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Hi Felicity,
Great feedback. In rural coastal communities in counties like Donegal, Sligo, and Mayo, aquaculture is a key source of employment. The sector is generating even more jobs, which will hopefully attract more workers and encourage young people to pursue careers here in Ireland, rather than emigrating.
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First of all, I really enjoyed this module. The content was so interesting, the video clips were informative and beautiful to watch.
I am all the better for doing it and learnt so much
Location
Aquaculture takes place mainly on the western seaboard, on the Atlantic coastline in bays and inlets as well as on the shoreline.
Like the fishing industry aquaculture supports local coastal communities directly and indirectly.
Muscle, oyster and salmon farming are the main sources of aquaculture in Ireland. This impacts very positively on the socio economic welfare of the coastal community. First and foremost, it provides yearlong employment which will provide regular income and thus encourage the area from dying out.
This is hugely important.
Also these areas will attract people with an interest in the Arts to settle here as it will greatly inspire artistic works in Music/Art and Drama
You now have a rich tapestry of people here providing employment and the Arts thus attracting tourists to the area
So from a socio-economic point of view it will help a community, which might otherwise die away, to thrive.
So directly through employment and indirectly through the Arts etc. aquaculture helps the community to thrive
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I found this module very interesting. I grew up on a farm and I am married to a farmer so I was interested to see the comparisons between agriculture and aquaculture. Both of course are very dependant on climate and I think this is being highlighted more and more every year, certainly in agriculture. We also wouldn’t be a million miles from the coast and am familiar with seeing aquaculture industries but would not know anything about them. Locations of aquaculture farms play a very important role in communities. They provide employment in a number of ways, on the farm itself and also in areas such a processing and transportation. This also has a knock on effect on the local economy indirectly in many ways such as accommodation for workers, maintenance staff, equipment and feed supplies, etc. The road network in Ireland obviously plays a key role here as these communities need to be able to transport their product quickly and efficiently to their customers. Rural broadband can also be a major factor in the location of any industry outside of bigger communities and I imagine would be a hindrance to some aquaculture industry locations as every business must be online now.
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I live on the west coast of Ireland which is suited to farming at sea and not agriculture. This provides employment for local families thus avoiding having to move away. This module has made me more mindful of where I live and prompted me to think about why there are salmon farms in this region and what this means to the people and the area.
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Great module on how aquaculture can contribute to STEM education in Irish schools. I mentioned in the previous module how a large number of students are from ‘typical’ farming backgrounds which their families are dependant on for income.
Throughout this module it was clear that Ireland offers an ideal setting for aquaculture with it’s extensive coastline and pristine marine environment. I was surprised though it’s predominantly the west coastal regions but now understand because they have suitable temperature and sheltered bays for example, important for salmon, mussels and oysters. When I was in An Rinn in Waterford this year I am amazed to see an oyster farm for the first time and seeing the tractors going out across the beach when the tide was out and when the tide was in, you couldn’t even know an oyster farm existed there!
Aquaculture provides direct employment opportunities such as manual labour like harvesting to specialised roles in management, logistics and marine biology. Opportunities such as these in small rural areas is fantastic to see especially as they would be creating a demand for goods and services too for local businesses such as logistic companies, maintenance services and equipment suppliers which all would benefit from the presence of aquaculture operations. As many of these businesses may be local, all the money would be invested back into the local community.
A thriving aqua farm could enhance the reputation of a region as a hub for high-quality seafood which would also contribute to local tourism. Many could also do tours of the farms or offer school tours for students.
Overall the strategic location of aqua farms in ireland is a testament to our ability to harness its natural resources in a way that benefits both the environment and local communities.
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I live on the west coast of Ireland which is suited to farming at sea and not agriculture, but again I didn’t question why where I live is more suited to aquaculture, fish farming than say the east coast of Ireland. This provides employment for local families thus avoiding having to move away. This module has made me more mindful of where I live and prompted me to think about why there are salmon farms in this region and what this means to the people and the area.
Our goldilocks climate has its advantages which I had never really thought about. Along with features such as the gulf stream and their significance to our region. I think I have a new appreciation and better understanding of my surroundings.
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I live in a rural area of Cork which is dominated by dairy agriculture. Farming, and dairy in particular, is obviously going through a period of great transition. As mentioned in the module, our ‘Goldilocks’ climate gives Ireland the ability to farm really productively. However it is now apparent that some of our more intensive farming practices are just not sustainable and we need to look at a broader, more varied approach to providing food and jobs.
As highlighted in this module, aquaculture should play a huge part in this transition. Food producers along the western coasts of Ireland have long been disadvantaged compared to those farming the more fertile lowlands to the east. It seems clear that the same geographical features that disadvantage farmers in the west can be to their advantage when it comes to aquaculture.
I’d love to imagine a future where varied and sustainable dairy, arable and horticulture farming are widespread across much of the island and the western shore is home to a rich aquaculture sector with salmon, oyster and mussel farms. This could bring much needed jobs and even a cultural revival to towns and villages in rural, coastal areas.
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Hi David, I’m glad you decided to branch out and learn about aquaculture when you are situated near dairy farming in Cork. Many people in Ireland know much about agriculture but very little about aquaculture, particularly why aquaculture is dominant on the west coast. Aquaculture provides many jobs to the west coast of Ireland where the weather and soil quality is poor and agriculture isn’t as popular. Aquaculture provides many jobs to people living in rural coastal communities, with over 16,000 people being directly and indirectly employed in the aquaculture industry.
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From completing module 2, I have gained insightful knowledge around the importance of climate and location for fish farming in ireland. I know that tidal zones and the grade of water quality has a lot to do with the location of a fish farm. In school we teach and encourage children to think spatially through a mathematical and geographical process and I’ve learned some ideas on how I can use this in my own teaching. I really enjoyed the ‘goldilocks’ term to describe the Irish climate and understanding how the moon has everything to do with the position of the tides, things I think children will engage with. From living in a rural coastal community, I’ve seen first hand how Aquaculture farms can contribute massively in a socioeconomic sense by creating jobs for all ages and genders, boosting local food production, the importance of foreign exchange and potential for increased tourism in the area. I think agriculture is also popular. It opens up opportunities for working collaboratively among farmers, sharing resources and knowledge.
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Your reflection resonates with me Aideen. It is interesting to see the connection of spatial thinking with mathematical and geographical processes in teaching. I am also inspired after this module! The “Goldilocks” analogy is such a clever way to engage students with our unique climate. I also appreciate your insights on the socio-economic benefits of aquaculture in rural communities, especially how it fosters job creation and collaboration among farmers. It’s clear that your personal experience will add a valuable perspective to students’ learning experiences.
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Before exploring this module, I had a basic understanding that aquaculture farms would primarily be located in coastal areas. However, the depth of knowledge I’ve gained has been enlightening, particularly in how Ireland’s unique geographical and climatic features support aquaculture and how these farms can significantly benefit coastal communities. The Gulf Stream, which warms the waters around Ireland, plays a crucial role in sustaining aquaculture, especially in the west, where conditions are ideal for species like Atlantic salmon and blue mussels. The deep water and gentle current in areas like Killary Fjord, Ireland’s only fjord, are optimal for oyster farming. Aquaculture locations are not just random, they are the result of careful consideration of environmental factors, such as tidal patterns and water currents. This module also highlighted the socio-economic contributions of aquaculture. Aquaculture farms create jobs, support local economies and contribute to Ireland’s international reputation for quality food production. The knowledge I’ve gained through this module will be valuable in my primary classroom. By introducing students to the concepts of aquaculture, I can engage them in discussions about geography, environmental science and the local economy. Activities like mapping an oyster farm can be a hands-on way to teach spatial reasoning, the importance of sustainable practices and real-world applications of STEM subjects. These lessons will connect students to their local environment and also broaden their understanding of how natural resources can be managed to benefit communities.
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Aquaculture farming is the main type of farming along the west coast of Ireland. It is a prime location as well as its land features and access to ports and harbours make it essential for aquaculture production. Areas on the west coast are benefiting from our temperate climate which was wittingly referred to as a “Goldilocks climate”. We get a good mix of different weather conditions which makes it just right for fish farmers.
Areas on the west coast are rural areas. The population in these areas may be small. However, aquaculture farming brings about employment in all shapes and forms. Some roles within the industry include, fish farmers, farm managers, shipping transport, processing, marine biologists and scientists. It is a sector that is increasingly growing here in Ireland. It provides stable employment for locals and employees might relocate to the area. Those working in the industry gain knowledge in marine science/biology. It brings people to the area which in turn will bring business to these small communities.
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The West Coast of Ireland has famously (or infamously) been known for poor farming and agricultural environments. The famous Oliver Cromwell proclamation of “To Hell or to Connaught” springs to mind when we look at the West of Ireland through an agricultural lens. As such, it is great to see from this Module that the West Coast is ideal for aquaculture. The shape of the coastline on the West of Ireland is really beneficial to the development of aquaculture. The variety of bays and inlets allow for bountiful fish farming while being sheltered from the extremes of the Atlantic Ocean. These different areas along the coast (along with the different water depths and intertidal zones) also facilitate variety in the fish that can be farmed. As the Module mentioned, Atlantic Salmon, Pacific Rock Oysters, and Blue Mussels are all farmed plentifully in Ireland, despite the different environments required for each of them to thrive. Aquaculture is a booming and exponentially growing industry, not just in Ireland, but throughout the world. This growth significantly benefits the coastal communities in which the fish farms are located, through boosting the economy, communications, infrastructure, trade, and tourism.
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Hi Mark, when I am in the ARC I too mention Oliver Cromwell’s famous saying “to hell or to Connaught”. We also call the West Coast of Ireland Europe’s weather wall as it is the first country that the Atlantic hits in Europe. This is why the West Coast is so jagged: due to the relentless battering it gets from the ocean. In turn, aquaculture is so relevant here thanks to the Atlantic’s deep waters and strong currents that are constantly mixing providing clean water for our Salmon, Oysters and Mussels.
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I had not realised the importance of the Atlantic ocean particularly as it controls our climate, influenced by the Gulf Steam/North Atlantic Drift. I was aware that the Gulf Steam brought us warmer water in winter and cooler water in summer but I did not know that it ensures a mild climate for western Europe.
I found it useful to reflect on where aquaculture actually takes place in Ireland and I think it is interesting that it is generally in mountainous areas which are unsuitable for agriculture. The Atlantic is an ideal home for salmon, pacific rock oysters and blue mussels. The intertidal zone explanation is a useful resource when examining the influence of the tides.
The mapping lesson plan provides a very useful resource for teaching about our coastline and the inquiry based approach allows the children to lead in the development of the lesson by questioning the key features and locations of certain types of fish.
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I found Module 2 very interesting. Although I was aware of the huge popularity in Irish seafood, Atlantic Salmon, Dublin Bay Oysters etc I never really thought about the sustainability and balance that Aquaculture brings to our country and our economy.
Due to land features in the West, the area is more suitable to aquaculture – making it the main source of farming in this region. With population rising across the world it is amazing that we can have a balance between agriculture in the parts of the country where land features are more suitable and aquaculture in areas where farming the land it more difficult.
Our temperate or oceanic climate means the bays, inlets and shoreline along the Atlantic coast, helped by the Gulf Stream, is the perfect place for our aquaculture industry. Ireland’s semidural tides assist in aquaculture farming, allowing farmers to predict and therefore work with the tides.
I look forward to doing the mapping activity with my class and broadening our understanding of farming – including agriculture and aquaculture.
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Great work Pauline, I think you are referring to Dublin Bay Prawns, not Dublin Bay Oysters! Most of our oysters are farmed along the west coast or in Co. Waterford. We wouldn’t normally farm them in Dublin due to weak currents and very few quiet beaches. Dublin Bay Prawns are fished and are one of the highest fished demersal (meaning they live close to the sea floor) marine species in Ireland. The mapping activity is excellent and we carry out this activity on-board the ARC too during our Geography and Climate lesson.
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Aquaculture farms in Ireland are located along the country’s extensive coastline, taking advantage of the clean, plentiful waters of the Atlantic Ocean. These farms are primarily found in counties such as Donegal, Galway, and Cork, where there is farming of species like salmon, mussels, and oysters. The presence of aquaculture farms plays a significant role in the socio-economic development of these coastal communities. They provide employment opportunities, not only in farming but also in processing, distribution, and related services. This is crucial in areas where traditional industries like fishing may have declined. Aquaculture supports local economies by fostering industries, such as equipment supply, transport, and tourism, which benefit from the scenic coastal landscapes and the appeal of fresh, locally-sourced seafood. These farms contribute to food security and export revenues, as Ireland is a major exporter of fish especially to Europe. By supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices, aquaculture farms help to preserve the cultural heritage and environmental health of Ireland’s coastal regions, ensuring that these communities can thrive both economically and socially in the long term.
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The Aquaculture industry has grown from a small scale industry in the 1980s to producing over 40000 tonnes of fish and shellfish in 2021. The aquaculture sector is a major contributor to seafood production and food security in Ireland. As pressure grows on the availability of land for agriculture, aquaculture has great potential for further expansion given our great coastal location with natural harbours, bays and inlets making it very attractive for aquaculture.Fish and shellfish are farmed in 14 coastal counties predominantly along the Western Atlantic Seafront.The presence of the Gulf Stream which warms our waters and allows us to sustain a thriving aquaculture sector is very important to Irelands aquaculture industry. Killary harbour, Irelands only fjord is ideal for mussel and oyster farming. Aquaculture employs around 2000 people directly mainly in rural communities where agriculture isn’t as viable.It supports rural communities creating many more jobs indirectly eg marketing, conservation and management, seafood processing,infrastructure, fishing vessel engineering,commercial divers,marine biologists and food scientists. This course has opened up my eyes to the importance of aquaculture to Irelands food security and to it’s economy. I enjoyed learning about the different tidal zones and fish/plants/shellfish that live there and I found this very interesting.
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Hi Deirdre, great written piece. You learned a lot about Ireland’s aquaculture industry! Killary Fjord is one of my favourite places to visit in Ireland and I love how you can purchase delicious fresh Salmon and Mussels in the local village there. You can’t get more local than that. Buying local seafood keeps employment in the coastal communities while preventing the need for single-use plastic, carbon emissions and delivery costs.
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As I progressed through this module I couldn’t help but wonder how our ‘Goldilocks’ climate will change, and already is changing, over the years as a result of global warming and the effect this will have on agriculture in the future in Ireland. Especially with talk of the gulf stream changing, given how vital this is for our temperate climate. Aquaculture provides an income for many people in rural areas of Ireland where the land is less than favorable for other types of farming. I have seen this for myself in the west coast of Donegal where the land is rocky and the farms are small, however there are lots of fishing and aquaculture for example in Killybegs. The local community here relies on aquaculture for their income and would be financially devastated should anything happen to the industry. The same can be said for areas of Kerry and Mayo. I found the part of this module talking about the intertidal ones very interesting and I think this is a part that the children would love in particular.
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I live in the West Coast of Ireland and my father is a fishmonger and previously fished when I was younger. I have at first hand witnessed the steps involved from sea to fork. Many people are involved in these steps which provides an income for these people. In costal rural areas there are not as many job opportunities and many view the sea as a place where they can earn a living. I live near a fish farm too. The fish farm is located in close proximity to an Island. The fish farm provides vital job opportunities to the Island people. This allows the Islanders to take home a wage and continue to live on the Island. The opportunity of full-time employment means that families can move home and live on the Island. This has a knock-on effect on the island, as the fish farm is a large employer, it heavily contributes to the socioeconomic impact on the Island. Without this employment many Islanders may not be able to live where they were born and raised.
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Hi Kieran, it’s great to hear that you already have some marine industry experience due to your father being a fishmonger. We talk about fishmongers in our socioeconomics module on-board the ARC and how it is an indirect job. The aquaculture and fishing industry provides over 16,000 jobs in Ireland directly and indirectly so it’s important to mention these jobs as it keeps business in local coastal areas.
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The sheltered conditions in the west and south west of Ireland seem to provide the ideal conditions for aquaculture and every time I visit Killary harbour the first thing people want to know is What are those things in the water?’ Reading about Killary shellfish and the mussels that are farmed there by locals was very informative and no doubt provides vital socio-economic support to the local community. As well as generating jobs in processing, distribution and retail, seafood is more readily available to locals and local restaurants – and mussels and oysters are v very much in demand, especially to tourists who love to enjoy local seafood. It was interesting to read how under utilised our coastlines are while farming land is at a premium, meaning that we will heavily rely on aquaculture to provide quality sources of protein in the future. At a national level, aquaculture contributes to the economy through exports all over the world.
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71% of the worlds surface is covered by water most of which is salt water. Only 29% of the earths surface is covered by land. Currently 65% of Irelands land is suitable for agriculture and most of this is already in use however as an island we have a large area of sea suitable for aquaculture.
Not all of Irelands land is suited to different types of agriculture. Mountainous coastal areas in the south west, west and north west do not have land suited to dairy, arable, livestock or mixed farming. Agriculture is possible in these areas but with mountainous regions and bogs as well it is not best suited to it. However their coastal access to the Atlantic makes then ideal for aquaculture. Erosion on the west coast of Ireland has created peninsulas, bays and inlets which are suited to aquaculture. These parts of the country are also traditionally areas of high emigration due to a lack of employment opportunities. Working with the natural landscape and resources not only gives opportunities for industry and employment but also places a value on this landscape and resources. Employment in these areas allows people to remain in these areas keeping schools, local shops and other business viable and helping to regenerate these areas. This also leads to further investment and facilities.-
Hi Niamh, great to see you understand why Ireland’s climate is ideal for farming on land and at sea. We already have very limited land resources, which is where aquaculture plays a crucial role. It provides jobs in rural coastal areas of Ireland, where agriculture is not feasible due to the mountainous, rugged terrain and poor weather conditions.
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This program was really educational and helped me understand more about the topography of the Irish coast and how its characteristics might be utilized to identify potential locations for aquaculture farms. Usually, when we think of farming, we think of agriculture, but aquaculture has lately caught my attention as well.
The West’s terrain features make it more suited for aquaculture, which is the primary agricultural industry in the region. It is remarkable that, despite the world’s population growth, we are able to maintain a balance between aquaculture in regions with less suitable land and agricultural in those with more suitable land.
The socioeconomic growth of these coastal villages is significantly influenced by the existence of aquaculture operations. Together with farming, they also offer jobs in processing, distribution, and other services. This is especially important in places where fishing and other traditional businesses may have disappeared. By encouraging sectors like transportation, tourism, and equipment supply—all of which profit from beautiful coastal landscapes and the allure of locally produced, fresh seafood—aquaculture helps to boost local economies. These farms support both export earnings and food security, as Ireland is a significant fish exporter, particularly to Europe.
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The West’s terrain features make it more suited for aquaculture, which is the primary agricultural industry in the region. It is remarkable that, despite the world’s population growth, we are able to maintain a balance between aquaculture in regions with less suitable land and agricultural in those with more suitable land.
The socioeconomic growth of these coastal villages is significantly influenced by the existence of aquaculture operations. Together with farming, they also offer jobs in processing, distribution, and other services. This is especially important in places where fishing and other traditional businesses may have disappeared. By encouraging sectors like transportation, tourism, and equipment supply—all of which profit from beautiful coastal landscapes and the allure of locally produced, fresh seafood—aquaculture helps to boost local economies. These farms support both export earnings and food security, as Ireland is a significant fish exporter, particularly to Europe.
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Growing up with a background in dairy farming you really do not think about life by the sea much as you become so preoccupied with what happens on land. The reference of the Goldilocks climate got me laughing as we have struggled alot lately with predicting weather and how it impacts our day to day. I see the benefits the west of Ireland could get from a thriving aquaculture, it supports earnings and tourism. Places like Killary shown in the module are special places and they need to be explored more. Aquaculture is the real agriculture in the west of Ireland. Its beauty needs to be harnessed for our youth to want to stay and make a living that becomes both lucrative and rewarding. Only then will this industry take off the way it should.
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Hi Shane,
It’s great that you took an interest in aquaculture considering you grew up on a dairy farm. Yes, Ireland does have a Goldilocks climate, and all the seasons in one day!! Which can be frustrating for Irish people but ideal when it comes to agriculture hence why Ireland is famous for our farming on land and on sea.
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I was very interested to learn how farming land will become scarce due to urban sprawl of towns and cities and population growth etc. And with only a fraction of the world’s seas and oceans being used for aquaculture, this leaves more room for sustainable growth for this industry.
Ireland’s aquaculture farms are predominantly located in sheltered bays and inlets along the west and south coasts. This is due to the fact that Ireland’s unique coastline (made from the Atlantic ocean’s erosion as well glacial erosion) have given Ireland its unique landscape which has features that are essential for aquaculture production for example: their clean waters, suitable temperatures, and natural protection from harsh weather. Some locations are: Donegal Bay, Dingle Bay and Bantry Bay.
This strategic location of aquaculture farms in various bays and coastal areas plays a crucial role in their socio-economic contributions to local communities. For example they provide direct jobs n farming, processing and distribution as well as indirect employment in supporting industries such as transport and maintenance. This employment helps sustain local economies, reducing outsourcing it to another community/place as thus supporting community stability. Similarly, the industry often supports local education and training programs, helping build a skilled workforce.
Also, by promoting environmental stewardship, aquaculture farms help to preserve natural resources which coastal communities depend on ensuring long term ecological and economic sustainability.
I loved the map reading activity, discussing the natural features on Ireland’s coastline – which features are important dependant on which species potentially being farmed. I think students would like discussing these ideas. -
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Write a reflective piece on the location of aquaculture farms in Ireland and how they can contribute socio-economically to coastal communities.
From the module I can see the major role aquaculture farms play in Ireland and how they contribute to socio-economically to coastal communities. Most of these aquaculture farms are located in the west of Ireland where land is not applicable for agricultural farming. In this area there’s ample bays, inlets, peninsulas, estuaries and islands, fjords, harbours and piers that all provide the perfect conditions for aquaculture.
Socioeconomically, aquaculture farms contribute significantly to coastal communities in many ways i.e. employment opportunities, community development, export and trade, environmental stewardship etc.
It was really interesting to learn about the opportunities BIM provides to young marine biologists. It allows students to train within Ireland and also experience hands-on the aquaculture farms on offer here.
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Hi Eimear,
I’m glad you enjoyed Module 2-Where Do We Farm. The aquaculture industry employs over 16,000 people directly and indirectly in Ireland and provides many jobs to rural coastal communities. This is particularly important in areas where agriculture is not common due to poor weather and the mountainous area’s with poor soil.
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The map of Ireland highlighting Aquaculture areas on the island is hugely useful.
Sustainable growth is key when discussing Aquaculture and this point was clearly delivered.
I agree with Robert when he says that Supporting coastal communities both directly and indirectly is both clever and necessary and makes perfect economic sense as well as social sense.
Well done on the ‘Golidlocks climate ‘term, totally relatable. The world climates are very clearly explained.
The differences between Agriculture and Aquaculture are also clearly outlined.
Another enjoyable Module.
Mary Curtin
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Aquaculture Farms in Ireland: A Socio-Economic Lifeline
Ireland’s coastal regions possess immense potential for aquaculture, a sector that can significantly contribute to the socio-economic fabric of coastal communities. Strategically located aquaculture farms can capitalize on Ireland’s abundant marine resources, creating employment opportunities and stimulating local economies. By diversifying income sources beyond traditional fishing, coastal communities can enhance their resilience to economic fluctuations.Moreover, aquaculture can contribute to food security by providing a sustainable and nutritious protein source. The development of processing and distribution infrastructure associated with aquaculture farms can further boost local economies. However, it is crucial to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Careful site selection, robust environmental impact assessments, and sustainable farming practices are essential to protect marine ecosystems. By adopting a holistic approach, Ireland can harness the full potential of aquaculture to revitalize coastal communities while safeguarding the marine environment.
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I had always thought that Ireland’s main aquaculture spanned all over the coast but was surprised to see how it is focused on the Donegal and Western coast of Ireland. Ireland’s coastal communities have long been intertwined with the sea, drawing sustenance, livelihood, and identity from the waters that surround the island. The development and strategic location of aquaculture farms along Ireland’s coastline represent not only a continuation of this relationship but also a vital component in the socio-economic fabric of these communities. Ireland’s aquaculture farms are predominantly situated along the western, southern, and north-western coasts, in areas such as Connemara, Bantry Bay, Donegal, and the sheltered inlets of counties like Kerry and Cork. These locations are chosen for their pristine waters, natural shelter provided by the landscape, and favorable environmental conditions, such as temperature and salinity levels, that are ideal for farming species like salmon, mussels, and oysters. The choice of these locations is not just about environmental suitability; it also reflects a deep-rooted connection between the local populations and the marine environment. In many of Ireland’s coastal areas, traditional industries like fishing and agriculture have been in decline, leaving gaps in local economies. Aquaculture has stepped in to fill these gaps, providing direct employment opportunities in farming, processing, and distribution. These jobs are often year-round, offering more stability compared to seasonal employment in tourism or traditional fishing. This steady income is vital for families, allowing them to stay in their local communities rather than migrating to urban centers in search of work.
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