Kelly Cove Salmon (KCS), the Atlantic Canadian salmon farming division of Cooke Aquaculture, has acquired the former operations of Aqua Bounty Canada on Prince Edward Island (PEI).
Aqua Bounty, which was known for pioneering genetically engineered salmon and focusing on land-based biotech farming, ceased operations in December 2024.
KCS confirms that it does not farm or sell GE seafood products and has no plans to do so with this acquisition, instead emphasising transparency and full ‘egg to plate’ traceability of its products.
The acquisition will encompass key Aqua Bounty facilities on PEI, including hatcheries in Bay Fortune and Rollo Bay, equipped with modern egg incubation and recirculating aquaculture systems.
KCS says it intends to use these facilities to produce large smolts for its existing ocean salmon farming operations in Atlantic Canada.
“Our freshwater science and fish health team will take the necessary time to thoroughly assess the capabilities of these newly acquired R&D and fish rearing facilities,” said Glenn Cooke, chief executive of Cooke Aquaculture.
“This evaluation will include a detailed analysis of the infrastructure, resources and expertise. Hybrid systems involving a mix of efficient land-based hatcheries and ocean farming are the responsible and sustainable way to grow local salmon for food.”
The takeover is part of Cooke’s continued investment in Atlantic Canada, aimed at creating local jobs and strengthening operations.
KCS also plans to use a new shipping route through the Port of Souris, which offers vital services to the local fishing industry. Seven former Aqua Bounty employees have already been rehired to support the transition.
