Before the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute decides on the boundaries of marine aquaculture sites, it shall seek the opinion of the National Planning Agency, the Environment Agency and, where applicable, the regional planning council for the area concerned.

Decision on the Demarcation of Aquaculture Sites

The Marine adn Freshwater Research Institute determines the demarcation of aquaculture sites at sea, in accordance with the Act and Regulation on Aquaculture.

• The decision must be based on the carrying capacity of the area, the optimal overall utilization of potential aquaculture sites, as well as taking into account other existing activities in the area and pending aquaculture applicationas.

• Where a regional marine plan has been adopted, under the Act on Marine and Coastal Planning, the Marine and Freshwater institute shall take the plan into account.

• A formal decision to demarcate boundaries of marine aquaculture sites, is a prerequisite for the Minister of Fisheries allocate such sites for aquaculture operations.

Presenting of Marine and Freshwater Research Institute's Proposal

If a regional marine plan has not yet been adopted, the National Planning Agency shall publicly present MFRI'S proposal and provide a three-week period for submitting comments before issuing its opinion to the institute.

Connection to Regional Marine Planning

The National Planning Agency prepares regional marine plans on behalf of the regional planning councils. These plans establish policies and provisions for the use and management of all areas within their jurisdiction.

• The plan addresses the utilization and protection of fjords and bays as well as the interaction of different marine uses.

• Aquaculture is among the topics covered in the plan, alongside others such as energy production, infrastructure development, resource extraction, transport, environmental protection, outdoor recreation and tourism.

The planning process aims to balance a wide range of interest and perspectives in making decisions about the future use of relevant marine areas.

Opinions of the National Planning Agency

Comments and formal opinions of the National Planning Agency on the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute's proposals for aquaculture site designation. Please note that the following documents are only available in Icelandic.