Mussel Farming

SABRI began researching mussel farming in 2000.  The first developmental license was issued in 2002 and the first longline of socks was deployed.  In 2003 the additional two licenses were issued and SABRI hired Alicia Patey as Aquaculture Coordinator to take over management of the three farms.  Keith Pilgrim and Paul Burden were hired on as mussel farm workers to place seed in each of the two additional sites.

In 2004 the three sites obtained Commercial licenses and a third worker, Wade Saunders, was hired.  Workers proceeded with deploying collectors and socking the mussels.  The ultimate goal is to have sufficient volume available in the area that will justify primary and secondary processing of mussels in the SABRI region.  Therefore, throughout the year SABRI studied the potential market within the area. In 2005, Todd Hedderson was hired as a mussel farm worker after Wade Saunders moved on.

Primary processing began in 2006.  The mussels have a very high yield in mid 40's.  Local markets have been very good but SABRI is exploring additional markets and working on CFIA approval for Federal registration in order to develop markets outside of the province. Also exploring the possibility of a vac pack market.

As of 2008 SABRI’s mussel operation continues to employ three workers on a seasonal basis who are supervised by our Programs Coordinator.  William Patey has since been hired to replace Todd Hedderson who has moved on.

For the past four years SABRI has employed a student with the Mussel Farm Operation, providing valuable work experience within the Aquaculture Industry.  In 2008 Carla Hedderson of Noddy Bay was employed in the student position.  Carla has completed the Fish and Wildlife Program at the College of the North Atlantic.   This has been made possible in partnership with Service Canada through its Canada Summer Jobs Program.

If you have any questions or comments concerning our Mussel Farms please contact our Programs Coordinator, Alicia Shears at ashears@nf.aibn.com or call the SABRI office at 454-3484.

For information on cooking and storing mussels visit www.discovermussels.com