Key approval for Nordic Aquafarms California project
Regulators in California have granted further approval to plans by Nordic Aquafarms build a land based RAS salmon farm in the west coast state.
The all-important decision was made by Humboldt County Planning Commission and means the project can continue to move forward.
The Commission voted unanimously to certify the environmental economic impact report and approved a coastal development permit for the scheme which will now require further approval from the California Coastal Commission.
The company also has plans for a similar $500 million facility on the east coast, near the Maine community of Belfast.
Nordic Aquafarms interim chief executive and chief financial officer Brenda Chandler said: “We would like to convey our appreciation for the many hours of collaborative work done by the Humboldt Bay Harbor Recreation and Conservation District, and the County of Humboldt on this environmental impact report.
“We consider this certification to be the first of many steps forward to provide a fresh, high-quality seafood product, using environmentally sound and state-of-the-art [recirculating aquaculture system] technology, close to consumers on the West Coast of the United States.”
She said the company had been able to listen to the environmental concerns of local people and she wanted to thank the community for allowing Nordic Aquafarms to make the best project for the area.
Chandler added: “The support from those that took the time to come and speak at the public hearing, as well as send letters of support is greatly appreciated. It is a reminder of how deeply meaningful our presence in the community will be.”
The Nordic Aquafarms California project, which will be built on a former pulp mill brownfield site near the town of Eureka California, which lies between San Francisco and Portland, Oregon, was first announced three years ago.
“We see a region that is ready to walk with us into a new opportunity to thrive, creating a California brand of close-to-market fish, and it strengthens our commitment to a successful project,” Chandler said.
