Aquaculture operators are being given the chance to tender for a new demonstration project in the coastal waters of southwestern England, addressing the sustainable production of marine finfish.
The project team already consists of representatives from the Centre for the Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas), the British Trout Association (BTA) and the Crown Estate and the group is now seeking a commercial partner in the industry.
The aim is to demonstrate the potential for net-pen production of rainbow trout using a model which provides a platform for the sharing of information, stakeholder input and dialogue.
Neil Auchterlonie, programme director in food security and aquaculture, Cefas, said: “This multipartner project is a very exciting initiative for aquaculture in England. There is potential for aquaculture to support UK government and regional aspirations relating to food security and regional economic development.”
The group is inviting expressions of interest from the industry to operate at an agreed site as an independent business. Cefas will monitor the sustainability of the operation covering aspects such as environmental effects, fish health and welfare.
The BTA says that there is a clear market both at home and abroad for top quality UK farmed trout. It’s hoped that this project will support both the regional economy and the seafood supply chain.
More information from www.cefas.defra.gov.uk
