Meet Our Latest Producer Partner: Kuterra

At the northern tip of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, the ‘Namgis First Nation has thrived on wild salmon for at least 6000 years. Yet today the populations of BC’s wild salmon, central to ‘Namgis culture and way of life, face unprecedented challenges. One highly contentious issue is the impact of the scores of open net pen salmon farms operating in the region, and the concern that they could be exposing wild salmon to an increased risk of diseases and parasites. In response to their concerns, the ‘Namgis set out to prove that farmed salmon could be grown responsibly in a way that does not pose a risk to British Columbia’s wild salmon populations.

 

Enter Land Raisedâ„¢ Kuterra salmon. KUTALA means salmon in the language of the ‘Namgis people. TERRA means land. And KUTERRA means salmon from the land.

 

Kuterra salmon are grown in land-based tanks that are completely separated from the marine environment, thus eliminating all contact between farmed fish on one hand, and wild salmon, birds and marine mammals on the other hand. Through strict bio-security measures, the Kuterra operation minimizes risks of disease and parasite transmission, allowing for Kuterra salmon to be grown without antibiotics, pesticides, or hormones. The Kuterra farm uses RAS (Recirculating Aquaculture System) technology to create optimal, stress-free growing conditions for Atlantic salmon. Unlike conventional salmon pens that discharge waste, chemicals, and feed directly into the environment, the Kuterra RAS system captures and composts all production waste and requires 30% less feed to grow fish than ocean-based farms. 

 

The Kuterra facility is 100% owned by the ‘Namgis First Nation. Kuterra salmon are also Green rated by the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch Program. If you are interested in learning more about this product, please contact Albion Fisheries.