New service to stock trout into farm dams and aquaponic systems

Each year, the Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) deals with numerous translocation applications for trout produced in Western Australian aquaculture facilities, to be stocked into farm dams and closed system aquaponics for non-commercial purposes.

The department has now developed an automated approvals process to streamline the service for those who wish to stock trout for their own consumption, not to on-sell.

Stocking trout into farm dams and closed system aquaponics in acceptable areas of the state is considered low risk, if certain conditions are met. For example, closed system aquaponics are considered low risk for stocking trout as they are unable to impact on natural aquatic systems.

Under the new process, applicants will first need to check the location where they plan to stock trout is in an acceptable area.

If so, they will be able to determine if they can meet all the conditions.  If the conditions can be met and the form is submitted, the applicant will immediately receive an automated approval by email.

DPIRD Director of Aquatic Resource Management Nathan Harrison said the reduction in red tape for applicants through the new system would allow for greater efficiency.

“It will save farmers and landholders time and paperwork, when they’re making arrangements to stock trout in a dam or aquaponics system on their property as well as reducing the time to process these types of approvals,” Mr Harrison said.

Anyone wishing to translocate into farm dams and closed system aquaponics for non-commercial purposes will need to complete the new form available on the DPIRD website here.