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Katahdin Salmon, a project initiated by Xcelerate Aqua in October 2022 and publicly announced in February 2023, has achieved a significant milestone by securing all essential permits for the construction of a 10,000-metric-ton (MT) salmon recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) in Millinocket, Maine, USA. This ambitious venture, led by former Nordic Aquafarms President and Co-Founder Erik Heim and former Nordic Aquafarms Executive Vice President Marianne Naess, is poised to transform the site of a former settling lagoon at the Great Northern Paper Co. paper mill.
In a press release dated May 15, the company confirmed the acquisition of final discharge permits, marking the closure of the appeals period without any challenges, a notable feat given the historical hurdles encountered by RAS projects in the United States. Marianne Naess, also serving as the CEO of Katahdin Salmon, expressed confidence in the project's progression, emphasizing the obtained permits as crucial steps in reducing operational risks and facilitating detailed design and site-preparation endeavors.
Naess and Heim bring firsthand experience in navigating regulatory challenges within the RAS industry, particularly evident in their previous involvement with Nordic Aquafarms' salmon RAS project in Belfast, Maine. The complexities surrounding Nordic Aquafarms' legal battles and recent setbacks underscore the significance of Katahdin Salmon's regulatory achievements.
Additionally, Katahdin Salmon has received approval for site-remediation activities from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, involving the emptying of the man-made settling lagoon. The company further announced the receipt of the final aquaculture-related permit, an aquaculture license, in April, outlining comprehensive water treatment measures to address discharge concerns.
Naess highlighted the company's commitment to environmental stewardship and fish welfare through advanced water treatment technologies, positioning Katahdin Salmon at the forefront of sustainable aquaculture practices. The forthcoming rebranding reflects the company's evolution beyond its initial phases, aligning with its future growth trajectory and expansion into new markets.
Moreover, Katahdin Salmon stands to benefit from existing infrastructure and streamlined construction processes, leading to substantial cost savings estimated between USD 60 million and USD 80 million. With a total project capital expenditure of USD 270 million, adjusted for inflation post-2024, the venture is positioned for long-term success.
In parallel, Xcelerate Aqua disclosed its participation in the SalmoGen coalition, alongside Cuna Del Mar, Builders Vision, and the Maine Penobscot Indian Nation, aimed at developing a domestic supply of Atlantic salmon broodstock and eggs. This collaboration, initiated in late 2022, seeks to establish a capacity of 25 million eggs annually for domestic and international markets, demonstrating the industry's commitment to sustainable growth and innovation.
Erik Heim emphasized the coalition's focus on fish welfare and biological risk management, emphasizing exceptional results in salmon performance and operational efficiency. As the project advances, Katahdin Salmon and its partners remain dedicated to pioneering sustainable aquaculture solutions, driving economic prosperity and environmental responsibility.
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