Andfjord Salmon prepares for first smolt release

Andfjord Salmon are planning to release their first smolt from their facility at Kvalnes, Andøya, as of this month. Plans have progressed according to plans laid out during the first quarter and following months.

"Our entire set-up is based on an idea of recreating the salmon's natural habitat on land. We have applied this philosophy when planning the smolt release too. Smolt release in late June coincides with the wild salmon's migration period here at Andøya," says Martin Rasmussen, CEO Andfjord Salmon. "Further, an increasing amount of natural light and period with rising temperatures is good for fish health and development. This is why ultimo June has been chosen for smolt release."

The company's pool, which is notable for its flow-through technology, has been operational 24/7 as if smolt had already been released in the pool. More information about the flow-through technology can be read about, HERE. During this time period, the company has conducted a continuous simulation to ensure that technology and equipment are in working order, and staff are prepared for the smolt release.

Biological sensors are installed and cleaning robots have been extensively tested, the company reports in a recent press release. In addition, back-up systems and solutions have been comprehensively tested.

Smolt release. Image credit: Andfjord Salmon

"Our objective is to create the most sustainable and fish-friendly facility of its kind," Mr Rasmussen explains. "A meticulous approach towards ensuring the best possible biological conditions for the salmon is, in our view, key to achieve this goal. I am pleased to say that everything has gone according to plan during our extensive preparations."

Entering into phase two sees blasting and excavation work take place at the next pools at Kvalnes. Pools closest to the first pool, which is due to have smolt released into it, are being excavated first.

Plans are in place for Andfjord Salmon to increase production volume by 50 percent from 12,600 in phase one and two, to 19,000 tonnes in phase three.

Having recently secured a NOK 50 million loan, the company will be financing initiation of phase three and continued build-out of phase two.

In addition to the facility at Kvalnes, the company has secured land rights to other areas at Andøya, known as Breivik and Fiskenes, which will have similar land-based fish farming facilities established at both sites and a goal of 25,000 tonnes in production at each.

"We are highly dedicated to local job and value creation when we develop and operate our facilities. We want to achieve this by embracing the local environmental conditions that are unique to Andøya and Andfjord Salmon, simply because we believe this provides us and our fish with a competitive advantage nationally and internationally," says Martin Rasmussen.

As the land-based salmon facility is not yet operating, the company has yet to generate revenues. Losses sit at NOK 9.9 million in the first financial quarter of this year, which is compared to a loss of NOK 7.2 million in the same quarter of last year. This change can be attributed to Andfjord Salmon's 'ramp up' of operations in preparation to release the first smolt.

For more information on Andfjord Salmon visit their website, HERE.