May 5, 2023

Loch Long Salmon plans Scotland's first semi-closed containment salmon farm

Loch Long Salmon, a company aiming to introduce semi-closed containment salmon farming to Scotland for the first time, is set to organise a supply chain event in Oban town in May, Fish Information & Services reported.

The project is currently in the early stages of planning and engagement for their project at Lurignish, between Appin and Duror, 200km northwest from Edinburgh.

It is expected to require a total investment of over GBP 60 million (~US$75 million; GBP 1 = US$1.26), presenting an exciting opportunity for local and regional businesses to become involved in consenting, construction, and operational phases.

In partnership with the Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, the event is open to businesses already working within the aquaculture sector, as well as new entrants to the sector.

Semi-closed containment salmon farming appears similar to conventional open net salmon farming but with a key difference: the net is surrounded and protected by an impermeable barrier underwater, and water is drawn up and circulated from deeper in the Loch. This protective barrier eliminates the threat of sea lice and attacks by seals, without resorting to sea lice treatments or acoustic devices that could harm dolphins or other cetaceans. Additionally, it captures the salmon waste, which can then be brought ashore for use in green energy production or as a fertiliser ingredient.

This technology has been commercially successful in Norway, Canada, and the Faroe Islands for hundreds of cycles with no escapes reported.

Stewart Hawthorn, Managing Director of Loch Long Salmon, said that this project and others they are planning will build on that, adding to the fantastic opportunities provided by aquaculture companies already operating across Argyll & Bute.

Frazer Coupland, CEO at Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, said that it is encouraging to see this investment and technological advancements being at the forefront. He is looking forward to attending the event and urges businesses to support this project.

-      Fish Information & Services