September 9, 2022

Record number of visitors at Scottish Sea Farms sites in Scotland, UK, this year

Scottish Sea Farms welcomed a record number of visitors to its locations in Scotland, the United Kingdom, this year as part of a drive to increase awareness and understanding of the aquaculture sector.

Between January and September, the company hosted 270 visitors across the farming estate, including the freshwater hatchery in Barcaldine, marine farms and processing facilities.

In many instances, individuals and organisations approached Scottish Sea Farms directly. Others were introduced to the company by sector organisation Salmon Scotland. Combined, it has resulted in 33 scheduled visits, spanning a diverse range of backgrounds, from customers, regulators, politicians and environmental groups, to students, suppliers, press and members of the public.

Every department has been involved in the cross-company effort, which adds up to a significant investment of time. Visitors get an insight into all aspects of salmon farming and go away better informed, according to staff who have led tours.

"The beauty of people coming out to the farm is that they get to see what we do and speak to the team in person," said Scottish Sea Farms Scallastle farm manager Michael Keenan. "No question is off limits. In fact, we encourage open, honest, constructive discussion.

"With most of the team living locally, it's also an opportunity to convey to visitors from more central areas just how important salmon farming is to Scotland's remote communities."

The company has been hosting visits for years but, more recently, there has been a conscious decision to invite as many interested parties as possible to show first-hand the workings of what is a relatively young farming sector.

- The Fish Site