California

Nordic Aquafarms is proud to announce that all three Coastal Development Permits needed to move forward with our aquaculture project in California are now in hand. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone in establishing a robust and sustainable aquaculture presence on the West Coast. The timing of such an endeavor couldn’t be better.

According to the USDA, the demand for seafood in the US has risen steadily in the last three decades. In 2023, the US seafood trade witnessed a deficit surpassing $20 billion as imports outpaced exports. Our farm will replace imports with fresh, local seafood, under the strictest of environmental regulations. Regardless of the increasing market for seafood, particularly on the West Coast, establishing a farm in California is not simple.

Notably, California has the most rigorous environmental laws in the United States and one of the most complex permitting processes. During the recent California Coastal Commission (CCC) hearing, members noted that even great projects often face significant challenges in California.

Recently, three large and beneficial projects in the state did not receive their approvals to proceed, despite 20 years of environmental research, studies, and effort. Given these challenges, it is difficult to overstate the significance of Nordic Aquafarms’ achievement in securing permits for our project. We have successfully navigated the complex regulatory landscape where many others have struggled, giving us a unique first-mover advantage in the California RAS market for the next 10 to 20 years.

“Having all three of the Coastal Development Permits needed to move forward is a significant accomplishment,” states Brenda Chandler, CEO of Nordic Aquafarms. “I am proud of this team and appreciate the confidence and support we’ve gained over the last few years from Humboldt County. We hope to have approvals for the remaining permits this summer. Working with the Harbor District to continue this momentum and bring a thriving waterfront to the Samoa Peninsula is coming closer to fruition, and we look forward to contributing to California’s agricultural front.”

Today, the California Coastal Commission voted unanimously to approve the redevelopment plans proposed by the Humboldt County Harbor District for its seawater intake systems. This decision aligns with the staff recommendation and marks a significant step forward for the region.

The approved improvement plans play a crucial role in facilitating the establishment of a National Marine Research and Innovation Park. This development is timely, coinciding with the momentum in aquaculture advancement nationwide.

“This approval is a pivotal milestone in a broader process for both the Harbor District and Nordic Aquafarms,” states Brenda Chandler, CEO of Nordic Aquafarms. “The revitalization of the old mill site has been long-awaited and heralds a transformative leap for Humboldt County. We eagerly anticipate the next phase of progress.”

Congratulations to the Harbor District on securing the California Coastal Commission’s Coastal Development Permit approval, underscoring their commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Nordic Aquafarms California is proud to have joined the National Fisheries Institute’s Sushi Council as a founding member.

“We were pleased to be asked to join with the other founding members of the Sushi Council,” stated Brenda Chandler, US CEO of Nordic Aquafarms California. “With our commitment to raising fresh fish ethically and responsibly, it was a great fit for us to join this partnership dedicated to creating an industry-led guide to food safety for sushi and sashimi products in the US.”

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In another landmark decision, the California Coastal Commission voted unanimously to uphold the staff’s “no substantial issue” recommendation, sealing its approval for Nordic Aquafarms’ terrestrial portion of the Coastal Development Permit (CDP). This pivotal step emphasizes the Commission’s commitment to protecting and enhancing California’s coast and ocean for present and future generations, while recognizing global challenges in sustainable protein production.

The California Coastal Commission, known for its rigorous evaluation process, thoroughly examined Nordic Aquafarms’ proposal, and found it in alignment with environmentally sustainable goals. The “no substantial issue” recommendation reflects the project’s adherence to stringent guidelines, ensuring minimal impact on the coastal ecosystem.

Nordic Aquafarm’s innovative approach to sustainable protein production embraces cutting-edge technology and environmentally conscious practices. The approved Coastal Development Permit signifies a significant stride towards creating a model for sustainable aquaculture that meets the growing demand for protein without compromising the delicate coastal environment.

“We applaud the California Coastal Commission’s unanimous decision to support Nordic Aquafarm’s in our pursuit of sustainable protein production,” said Brenda Chandler, US CEO of Nordic Aquafarms. “This approval not only underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship, but also highlights California’s role as a leader in addressing global challenges related to food production.”

The CDP approval helps to solidify Nordic Aquafarms as a key player in the emerging landscape of onshore sustainable aquaculture. By embracing forward-thinking initiatives, and environmentally friendly practices, Nordic Aquafarms is contributing to the broader solution for responsible protein production, aligning with California’s dedication to mitigating global issues.

Nordic Aquafarms is pleased to share the news of the California Coastal Commission’s “Notice
of Intent to Issue” of the final major permit for its innovative land-based finfish farm in
California, in a unanimous vote of 12-0. The outfall CDP, or Coastal Development Permit will
contain further special conditions, but this landmark achievement marks a significant milestone
in the company’s journey to establish the first-of-its-kind aquaculture facility in the region.                               

The project is strategically located on the site of a former abandoned pulp mill which has been
meticulously re-envisioned by the landowner, the Harbor District, as an Aquaculture Innovation
Center. This transformative initiative not only advances sustainable aquaculture practices but
also contributes to the environmental restoration of an underutilized industrial site.

Nordic Aquafarms acknowledges and appreciates the support and collaboration from various
stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), local and state governments,
and the dedicated members of the community. The project’s success is a testament to the power
of effective engagement and cooperation among diverse groups with a shared commitment to
environmental sustainability and responsible development.

The Harbor District, as the landowner, has played a pivotal role in facilitating the project’s
progression and will continue its permitting activities for the intake side of the initiative. This
next phase is anticipated to be completed by 2024, further solidifying the commitment to
responsible and transparent development practices.

“We are extremely proud of the engagement and collaboration with NGOs, local and state
governments, and our many steadfast community members. Together we simply made this a
better project all around,” stated Brenda Chandler, US CEO at Nordic Aquafarms.

Nordic Aquafarms remains dedicated to implementing cutting-edge technology and sustainable
practices in aquaculture, contributing to the growth of a resilient and responsible industry. The
company looks forward to the continued support of its partners and the community as it moves
forward with this ground-breaking project.