Extension of Sustainable Aquaculture, a Strategy for Protection of the Environment with Emphasis on Aquaculture Goals of Guilan Province

Sustainable aquaculture industry can cause minimal harm to the environment end ensures food security and health of the society. As Guilan Province is an important pole of aquaculture in Iran, extension of sustainable aquaculture in it is of utmost importance. Also, the proper goal setting ensures the success of activities in this regards. This research aimed to study extension of sustainable aquaculture as a strategy for protection of the Guilan Province’s environment with emphasis on aquaculture goals of fishery sector. The general approach of the research is qualitative. Part of the data was obtained through a literature review and to analyze the qualitative data we used qualitative content analysis as well. Sampling was targeted and confirmed the validity of research findings through triangulation. Based on the research results and the opinion of the participants, the need to inputs management, production management, waste control, and marketing and sales of products, are the main issues in the current situation of province’s aquaculture. Also, the result showed that technical support to develop sustainable aquaculture, development of responsible aquaculture for protecting and improving the environment, and development of sustainable aquaculture through information and marketing support should be added to the current goals of aquaculture extension. We recommend considering proposed goals by researchers and fisheries experts when preparing goals for the department of fisheries.