Environmentally Friendly Sustainable Aquaculture Net Servicing Facility

Summary:
This project has resulted in the completion of a facility that uses green technology (solar power) and sustainable practices (in waste water treatment), to make the net cleaning and repair processes more environmentally friendly, and has enabled this service to be offered to aquaculture clients in Nova Scotia.

The facility has been in operation since April 1, 2011 and while is not yet at capacity, it is expected to be fully operational by September 2011 and currently employs four new full time employees and two part time employees. Since operations began, over 30 nets have been serviced, generating $62,000 in sales. Orders have also been placed for an additional 100 nets in the next 1-2 months. Based on Rainbow loyal customer base, it is anticipated that upwards of 500 nets will be serviced by the company during a one year period.

The operation experienced a few challenges, related to permits, design modifications and weather that delayed the project by 8-10 months. However, the project was completed and customers that were depending on the services of the facility this spring season had their orders met. Aside from these challenges, Rainbow’s success has been achieved. We have been able to maintain our goal of implementing green technology, though the use of solar panel energy and in the environmentally safe capture of solids through improved waste water treatment. This facility is ensuring sustainable production through value added products that Rainbow Net & Rigging will offer and improving production that is currently being used in the industry through the innovation of new technology.

Recipient: Rainbow Net & Rigging Ltd.

Total Project Cost: $2,060,120
           
DFO-AIMAP Contribution: $270,000

Other Financial Support:

• Recipient: Rainbow Net & Rigging Ltd. - http://www.rainbownetrigging.com
• Government of Canada: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) - http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/English/Pages/Home.aspx
• Government of Nova-Scotia: Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NSDFA) - http://www.gov.ns.ca/fish/; Economic Development - http://www.gov.ns.ca/econ/; ecoNova Scotia - http://www.gov.ns.ca/econovascotia/; NS Environment - http://www.gov.ns.ca/nse/
• Municipal Government: Municipality of Chester - http://www.chester.ca/

For more information please contact the AIMAP regional coordinator
Maritimes Region: Cindy.Webster@dfo-mpo.gc.ca