An 'escape proof' cage. (Photo: Grieg NL)
Grieg NL stands up for new 'escape-proof' cage system
CANADA
Saturday, June 16, 2018, 03:40 (GMT + 9)
Grieg NL intends to use a new 'escape-proof' marine cage system while expecting the approval of its massive CAD 250-million (USD 192 million) salmon farm proposal off Newfoundland.
The demonstration of the new equipment using 3D virtual reality goggles was performed in St. John's and was attended by industry stakeholders, CBC News reported.
Apart from showing off the technology, Grieg NL talked up a project it desperately wanted to get off the ground.
"The Midgard system is an aquaculture cage which is designed to withstand any kind of harsh environments," pointed out Bendik Slyngstad, who works for the Norway-based company Aqualine AS.
Making reference to the equipment, the 3D generalist stressed that this is a reference model to show down to the smallest detail how every rope is supposed to go with all the nuts and bolts.
The virtual reality system he helped craft has caught the attention of aquaculture proponents, including Grieg NL, mainly because of one significant claim to fame.
"We've never had any escapes with our system due to a failure of the system itself. It's practically escape-free if you use it correctly," said Slyngstad.
Grieg NL wants to produce 33,000 tonnes of salmon a year at 11 sea cage sites around Placentia Bay, on the south east coast of Newfoundland.
The project also includes a CAD 75-million land-based hatchery/nursery — which will span three acres — in Marystown that would raise fish to stock the sea cages.
Grieg NL submitted its environmental impact statement (EIS) to government and the public now has until July 11 to weigh in.
Initially, in July 2016, then environment minister Perry Trimper released the company from further environmental assessment. But after over one year of negotiations, Newfoundland and Labrador's government requested the company in Novermber 2017 to perform this study in order to carry on with its plans.
Related article:
- Grieg forced to present environmental assessment declaration for its Placenta Bay project
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