"It is crucial that Canadians hear directly from the First Nations who live, work, and govern the coastal territories where salmon farming operates," the FNFFS said.
Preliminary figures indicate a decline compared with last year, but researchers warn that the data may not yet capture the full picture regarding fish welfare.
"Four major peer-reviewed studies have emerged this year alone, reaffirming this conclusion," the Executive Director of the BC Salmon Farmers Association noted.