THE Scottish Salmon Company (SSC) has begun trials of an integrated multi-trophic aquacul-ture (IMTA) system at its award-winning Loch Roag site on the Isle of Lewis. In conjunction with its salmon farming operation, the company is now introducing seaweed on to its mooring ropes to achieve a greater natural balance in the management of the water area. The trials have been developed with the Scottish Association of Marine Science (SAMS) as part of the company's ongoing commitment to protect the localenvironment and, in time they are expected to form the basis of full-scale commercial production of complementary stock. SSC carried out an extensive scoping exercise before the pilot scheme at Loch Roag was given the green light, including a fact-finding trip to Newfoundland and collaboration with Marine Scotland. The Crown Estate and the Western Isles Council Planners have also been kept abreast of plans.
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