is the second largest producer of salmon in the world. But these fish don鈥檛 occur there naturally. Instead, the salmon swim within enclosed nets, often tightly packed together. Kept off the country鈥檚 coastline, fish farms like these can pollute local ecosystems, displace native fish species, introduce diseases, and affect artisanal fisheries. 听

Over the last decade, the number of salmon farms has skyrocketed. But in , Chile has begun taking steps to protect some of its wild waters from the farmed fish. WCS is commending the Chilean government for keeping the salmon industry out of Tierra del Fuego and reducing the practice in the Antarctica and Magellanes provinces.

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鈥淐hile has taken the right step in protecting invaluable coastal resources off Tierra del Fuego and nearby areas,鈥� said Barbara Saavedra, Director of WCS鈥檚 Chile Programs. 鈥淭hese regions are home to rich concentrations of wildlife whose needs are only beginning to be understood.鈥�

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At the southern tip of South America, albatross, , southern , and many other species come to breed along the coasts. Since 2009, WCS has been studying Chile鈥檚 marine ecosystems and advising government officials on coastal zone planning.

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Unfortunately, salmon farming still threatens other areas within Patagonia. WCS is working with partner organizations to assess alternative salmon farming techniques that might reduce the farms鈥� impact on these environments. In addition to identifying coastal areas for future protection, WCS conservationists are examining how salmon farming might affect the region鈥檚 burgeoning ecotourism industry. 听


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