Nova Scotia-based Canaqua Seafoods is growing its land-based fish farm with a CAD 5.5 million (USD 5.4 million, EUR 4 million) expansion.
Canaqua grows halibut, arctic char and salmon smolt at its facility in West Advocate. The operation is the first of its kind in Nova Scotia, using technology that pumps seawater to onshore tanks.
The expansion, which is already underway, will create 14 full and part-time jobs. Canaqua currently employs 10 people full time and an additional four to seven seasonal and part-time staff.
The province of Nova Scotia will contribute CAD 1 million (USD 981,000/ EUR 736,000) in working capital toward the project, which is repayable over 10 years. Canaqua and its parent company, Merlin Fish Farms, have contributed CAD 2.9 million (USD 2.8 million/EUR 2.1 million).
“The potential for land-based aquaculture is enormous, and when practiced sustainably, aquaculture is a perfect fit for Nova Scotia,” said Paul Merlin, Canaqua president. “Farming marine species like finfish, shellfish, and other organisms offers great opportunity to expand Nova Scotia's workforce. With the province's support, I can grow my business and provide more people with rewarding, interesting, and environmentally considerate jobs, at home in Nova Scotia.”
