Elizabeth Ransom (Ransom Consulting), Lars-Henrik Røren (NAF Chairman), Senator Angus King and Erik Heim (NAF CEO). (Photo: Nordic Aquafarms)
Norwegian company to invest USD 500 million on land-based salmon farm
UNITED STATES
Wednesday, January 31, 2018, 22:30 (GMT + 9)
Norwegian company Nordic Aquafarms (NAF) announced that it has reached agreements to build one of the largest land-based salmon farms in Maine state, whose inauguration is planned for 2019.
The agreements are for a 40 acres (16 ha) property in the coastal town of Belfast, which has access to sea and freshwater resources that are required for a land-based aquaculture project.
NAF aims to start with an initial capacity of 13,000 tonnes per year, reaching a production of 33,000 tons of salmon annually, about 8 percent of the current U.S. consumption. Besides, the project would create 60 jobs within two years and up to 140 once it is completed.
The company´s total capital investment will be between USD 450 to 500 million, with an initial investment of USD 150 million.
The facility will include hatcheries and fish processing.
“Aquaculture is a growing force in Maine’s economy, bringing new jobs and opportunities to our state’s fishing industry,” said US Senator Angus King. “Nordic Aquafarms´ facility will build on our state’s rich fishing traditions and promote innovation and sustainability that can help Belfast and the surrounding community thrive,” he added.
Maine has been chosen for its pristine location, cold water conditions, its seafood profile and its proximity to major consumer markets in the North-eastern USA.
Nordic Aquafarms emphasizes its operations will have a low impact discharge of water free of chemicals and medications, renewable energy solutions and recycling of all waste resources.
“We look forward to becoming a responsible and contributing member of the Maine seafood industry”, said Nordic Aquafarms CEO, Erik Heim.
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