Scotland''s most northerly fish farm is investing nearly £100,000 in a project aimed at protecting stocks from seals, reports John Kinsman.
Balta Island Seafare (BIS) operates four sites off Unst, the most northerly Shetland Island.
Set up in 1987 and now employing just six people, BIS produces most of its organic-certified fish for markets in mainland Europe.
Although the remote location is ideal for growing salmon, there are also major challenges to overcome, including severe weather conditions and seal attacks.
BIS's new project involves the replacement of traditional nylon nets with ones made from stronger modern fibres.
Electronic seal scaring devices are also being installed in an effort to keep hungry predators away.
Christopher Ritch, of BIS said: "We have had some success deterring seals with electronic scarers. These new scarers should exclude seals from an even bigger area around the salmon cages.
"Together with the stronger nets, I think this will go a long way towards allowing us to farm in harmony with the local nature and keep the company growing".
David Priest from Highlands and islands Enterprise (one of the backers of the project) said: "Fish farming is a major part of the Shetland economy and estimated to be worth £130 million. The loss of stock from seals not only damages the business, but escaped farm salmon can also cause environmental damage by threatening the wild salmon population. The new nets and equipment installed by Balta Island Seafare will protect these wild stocks while increasing the profitability of the business."
