Find us on social media

Intelligence
Intelligence

First salmon stocked at high-energy offshore aquaculture site in Scotland’s Western Isles

Responsible Seafood Advocate

Site holds up to 3,000 metric tons and operates in stronger currents and higher wave conditions than traditional farms

Mowi
Mowi has stocked its first salmon at a new high-energy offshore aquaculture site, expanding capacity in Scotland’s Western Isles. Photo courtesy of Mowi.

Mowi has stocked the first salmon at its new Stulaigh South farm off South Uist, reaching a key milestone in the development of the site.

The first fish were transferred to the farm at the end of May, several months after planning permission was granted in December 2024. Stulaigh South comprises six pens with a circumference of 200 meters each and has a maximum permitted biomass of 3,000 metric tons. Mowi said the site will represent a significant addition to its operations in the Western Isles.

“Mowi operates in some very remote and often fragile communities across the Western Isles, and it’s vital that we have committed and passionate staff at our farms,” said Ben Hadfield, COO of Farming Scotland. “I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to get Stulaigh South up and running, helping us supply more healthy and nutritious salmon for the nation.”

According to Mowi, Stulaigh South operates in a high-energy marine environment characterized by strong currents, higher wave activity and increased water exchange. The company said these conditions can support water quality and fish health while allowing for greater production capacity than more sheltered sites.

Ad for [membership]

“This new farm has been developed with fish health and welfare at front of mind, and we also hope it will play a key part in local employment and community development, helping to strengthen the local economy of the Outer Hebrides,” said Hadfield.

Now that you've reached the end of the article ...

… please consider supporting GSA’s mission to advance responsible seafood practices through education, advocacy and third-party assurances. The Advocate aims to document the evolution of responsible seafood practices and share the expansive knowledge of our vast network of contributors.

By becoming a Global Seafood Alliance member, you’re ensuring that all of the pre-competitive work we do through member benefits, resources and events can continue. Individual membership costs just $50 a year.

Not a GSA member? Join us.

Support GSA and Become a Member

Author

  • Responsible Seafood Advocate

    Responsible Seafood Advocate

    [103,114,111,46,100,111,111,102,97,101,115,108,97,98,111,108,103,64,114,111,116,105,100,101]

Share

Tagged With

offshore aquaculture Scotland salmon farming offshore Mowi News

Related Posts