Conservation Law Foundation Plans Lawsuit Against Cooke Aquaculture

The Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) has announced its intent to sue Cooke Aquaculture for alleged violations of the Clean Water Act at multiple salmon farming sites in Maine. CLF claims that the company's operations release fish feces, uneaten feed, and other pollutants, creating toxic sludge that harms marine life and local ecosystems vital to fisheries. Heather Govern from CLF emphasized the importance of clean waters for Maine fishermen and the broader ecology. Cooke Aquaculture has denied the allegations, asserting that it complies with regulatory standards and has been operating sustainably alongside traditional fisheries for over 40 years. The company has 60 days to respond to the notice of intent to sue, as required by federal law. This legal challenge follows ongoing concerns from environmental groups regarding the sustainability of Cooke's aquaculture practices.