Algae monitoring policy

Purpose

Algae naturally occur in Norwegian waters and are an important part of the ecosystem. Certain environmental conditions may result in individual incidences of large algal blooms. The algae may either produce toxins that are harmful to the fish or may be so prevalent that they clog the fish gills. Some algae also have a surface structure that harms the gills. If there is a high density of such algae, the fish will not be able to sustain normal gill function. Proper monitoring of algae incidence is important if we are to implement measures at the right time.

Valid for

This policy applies to all the employees in the Group's farming operations.

Definitions

Algae: Collective term for very different single-cell and multi-cell organisms that have photosynthesis and live in humid environments as common factors.

Framework and principles

The Institute of Marine Research carries out national monitoring of algae, and their information is available to the public on their website, algestatus.hi.no. The industry and authorities continue to take efforts to identify the optimal solution for comparison of data collected by the industry with the results of monitoring by the authorities. The aim is to obtain a better and more comprehensive algae monitoring system.

Lerøy's algae monitoring is based on risk periods and observations that indicate suspected algal bloom. If any findings seem suspicious, all involved parties in the area are notified.

If an algal bloom affects one of our localities, a number of measures are implemented to reduce the impact on fish. In some cases, it may be necessary to clarify with the authorities and other parties whether the fish can be moved from the area affected.

Roles and responsibilities

• All employees involved in fish health and fish farming are jointly responsible for assessing the level of monitoring and possible measures to combat episodes of algal bloom that affect a locality. All employees who work with fish health and fish farming are responsible for following the policy.
• The top management in each company is responsible for ensuring that the company has personnel with the competencies required to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Policy ownership and implementation

• The COO Farming is the owner of this document, and is responsible for updates and maintenance.
• The COO Farming is assigned principal responsibility for the policy and is also responsible for ensuring its implementation and compliance.
• The policy requires the approval of the corporate management at Lerøy, and shall be presented to the Group's Board of Directors.
• The CEO of Lerøy Seafood Group has overall responsibility for the policy.