Scotland’s marine minister, Jim Fairlie, visited Bakkafrost Scotland’s recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) facility at Applecross in Wester Ross on Wednesday, where the company showcased its freshwater production strategy and government-backed investment in the site.
During the visit, Fairlie and Highlands and Islands Enterprise chair Angus Campbell unveiled a plaque recognising support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the Scottish Government for the facility.
The Applecross hatchery is central to Bakkafrost Scotland’s “one summer at sea” production strategy, under which salmon are reared for longer in controlled freshwater conditions before being transferred to sea as larger smolts. The company said the approach reduces the time fish spend at sea, limiting exposure to biological challenges while supporting improved fish welfare.
The multi-million-pound facility supports around 40 jobs and is powered by renewable energy, including on-site hydro and solar generation. Bakkafrost also plans to install pyrolysis technology to convert hatchery waste into biochar.
“Aquaculture is a significant contributor to our economy, providing a low-carbon source of protein and well-paid, highly skilled jobs, particularly in rural and island communities,” Fairlie said. He added that support from the Scottish Government and Highlands and Islands Enterprise had helped the site “use advanced technology to enhance production, support the skilled workforce, and reduce the environmental impact of the hatchery.”
Managing director Ian Laister said the facility represented “a new approach to salmon farming in Scotland, helping us improve fish welfare, create skilled rural jobs and invest for the long term in the Highlands.”
The Applecross site, officially opened earlier this year, forms part of Bakkafrost Scotland’s wider investment programme focused on freshwater production, renewable energy and fish welfare.
