A number of marine plants are harvested commercially in Nova Scotia, including rockweed (Ascophyllum nodosum), Irish Moss (Chrondus Chrispus), dulse (Palmaria palmate), and kelp (Laminaria sp.). In 2002, approximately 23,000 MT of marine plants were landed in Nova Scotia at a value of nearly $1.3 million.

Rockweed harvesting is jointly managed by Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). For further information on the harvest and management of rockweed in Nova Scotia, please contact:

Justin Huston
Coastal Zone Coordinator
Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture
PO Box 2223
Halifax, NS B3J 3C4
Phone: (902) 424-2996
Fax: (902) 424-1766

The commercial harvest of all other marine plants in Nova Scotia is managed exclusively by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). For more information please contact:

• DFO Area Licensing Centers: Dartmouth (902-426-9966) or Yarmouth (902-742-0896)
• Science: Dr. Glyn Sharp, DFO (902-426-6042)
• Management & Policy: Gary Weber, DFO (902-426-1488)

Marine Plant Buyer's License

Anyone interested in buying marine plants in Nova Scotia must first obtain a provincial Buyer's Licence The only exception is for rockweed leaseholders operating within their lease area.