Fish producer Whole Oceans has announced that it will open a new land-based Atlantic salmon production facility in Bucksport, Maine, which will utilise a state-of-the-art recirculating aquaculture system (RAS).
RAS is a land-based technology which helps salmon develop in a healthy environment, as water is continuously recycled through purification systems, which creates a clean growing environment which eliminates the need for antibiotics.
The company will invest more “than $250 million in Bucksport” once the facility reaches full production capacity, and the new plant will create “hundreds” of jobs.
Atlantic salmon is a product in high-demand according to the company, and the brand claims it has already pre-sold 100% of its total production for the next ten years.
Whole Ocean’s CEO Rob Piasio said: “The time for RAS has arrived and Whole Oceans will make Bucksport a global leader in sustainable Atlantic salmon production.
“But this story is much bigger than just Whole Oceans. This story is also about the resiliency and determination of towns throughout Maine that make projects like this possible.
“Whole Oceans is entering a long-term partnership with the community of Bucksport, a responsibility we accept with the greatest care, and together we will strive to make Whole Oceans a source of pride every single day.
“The logic behind Whole Oceans is simple: modern RAS technology provides a truly win/win outcome,” states Piasio. “Over time, our mission is to capture 10% of the U.S. Atlantic salmon market using only earth-friendly technologies.
“We will create hundreds of jobs and cement Maine’s leadership in the future of land-based aquaculture.”
Governor of Maine Paul R. LePage added: “Maine is open for business has been my motto from day one.
“Whole Oceans and its Maine-grown team will be an important addition to our state’s economy and transformative for Bucksport.”
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