The SEA-System Infrastructure Innovation Project – Modifying Steel Fish Cage Systems to Accommodate Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture

Summary:
Integrated Multi-trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) systems combine a finfish component that requires feed, with extractive species, such as shellfish, that filter and use the organic and inorganic waste streams resulting from finfish production. This system offers the Canadian aquaculture industry a sustainable option to increase production. IMTA technology is already in use in other parts of the country, but requires modifications to be used with the intensive steel cages used for finfish culture in B.C. Kyuquot Seafoods has designed and installed a successful IMTA system in Kyuquot Sound. The project delivered a new component for intensive shellfish production, compatible with all models of intensive finfish cages used in B.C. The system is built using highly durable materials, such as galvanized steel, and promises a significantly longer operational life than conventional shellfish rafts. Additionally, the design accommodates a variety of shellfish species, has the equivalent growing area of 42 wooden shellfish rafts, and should result in lower operational costs of production. Kyuquot has successfully employed the new shellfish component for scallop production at its own site, and has started commercialization planning to market the system to interested finfish farmers in B.C. This innovative technology provides B.C. farmers with a valuable tool to increase sustainable production and redouble environmental protection efforts.

Project Lead: Kyuquot SEAfoods Ltd.

Total Project Cost: $377,000
           
DFO-AIMAP Contribution: $250,000

Other Financial Support:

• Proponent: Kyuquot SEAfoods Ltd.
• Pacific Sea-Lab Research Society
• Uvic CART-Network

For more information, please contact the regional coordinator:
Pacific Region Officer, Sean.Irvine@dfo-mpo.gc.ca