SHETLAND FISH FARMERS LEAD THE WORLD IN DIVERSIFICATION     Print Article

Posted on: 24/5/2004

Shetland's fish farmers are leading the world in diversifying into the farming of new species, delegates to Europe's top aquaculture exhibition have been told.

The bold assertion was made by David Sandison, General Manager of the Shetland Salmon Farmers' Association (SSFA), at the Aquaculture International exhibition, which was held in Glasgow from 19 to 21 May.

"While diversification into other species is developing in other countries, Shetland is in the enviable position of leading the way", Mr Sandison said.  "Cultivating new species is an exciting area, which holds many possibilities for the future.  It is well recognised that the Shetland salmon farming industry has a wealth of experience to draw on to  maintain a successful and sustainable aquaculture sector, and the area of most interest from visitors to our stand was how cod farming is progressing".

"Aquaculture International is the leading trade show of its kind, attracting visitors from around the globe, so it is an ideal opportunity for industry people to meet up and conduct business under one roof.  We had a number of very productive meetings, which are now being followed up, and generally it is very gratifying to see that the industry appears much more upbeat and optimistic for the future".

Shetland Salmon Farmers' Association used the show to highlight the value of the industry to the Shetland economy, the level of production in the islands, and the employment generated.  The SSFA stand also illustrated the new species currently being developed, including cod, halibut and sea trout, and those under trial, which include haddock, rainbow trout and wolf fish, as well as the potential for turbot and lemon sole.

Back   Top of Page     Print Article