Why Talk About Salmon?

Genome sequence information can be useful for agriculture, the environment, and food production. By uncovering the sequence of an organism's genome we can begin to better understand its growth, health, reproduction, nutritional value, and place in the environment. Hundreds of organisms from around the world have and are being sequenced and the results will have practical effects on the environment and society.

Salmon is a good example with which to consider these practical effects. Salmon have economic value, scientific interest and an important history in the world. They are one of the most studied fish on the planet, with decades of research aimed at understanding their genetics. Salmon have been fished, eaten, written about and been the subject of art and literature for hundreds of years. This is why governments and industry are interested in the results of sequencing the salmon genome.

There are many issues surrounding the sequencing of the salmon genome. Salmon are considered culturally, economically and scientifically important in BC and throughout the world. In BC the decline in
wild pacific salmon populations means that new conservation efforts must be taken to protect them. At the same time, there is a growing demand for salmon as a food item. Sequencing the salmon genome may
help with some of these issues and to better understand this important fish.

In recent years, getting public input and opinion has become an important part of policy-making. Sequencing the salmon genome isnt just about science, it is also about understanding the values and interests that should guide salmon genomics research in BC. By sharing stories and listening to other people's ideas, this event aimed to understand the range of perspectives that should be considered when sequencing the salmon genome.