Nordic Aquafarms abandons plans for Belfast salmon farm amid legal challenges.
Nordic Aquafarms has announced it will cease efforts to develop a land-based salmon farm in Belfast, Maine, citing prolonged legal battles with project opponents. The decision, communicated on January 17, follows seven years of planning, permitting, and investment totaling tens of millions of dollars.
Despite securing all necessary local, state, and federal permits by late 2020, the Norwegian aquaculture firm faced ongoing litigation that ultimately hindered progress. Brenda Chandler, U.S. CEO of Nordic Aquafarms, described the decision as a significant setback for Maine’s aquaculture industry and local economic development.
“This is a sad day for Maine’s economy and the future of innovative aquaculture solutions,” Chandler said. She emphasized the project’s potential benefits, including a substantial increase in the local tax base, job creation, and the advancement of sustainable seafood production.
Nordic had planned to construct the facility on a 57-acre site, with the aim of positioning Maine as a leader in sustainable aquaculture. Proponents argued the land-based model, which minimizes environmental impact by reducing reliance on wild fish stocks and controlling carbon and water usage, represented a key solution to global food security challenges.
Opponents, however, raised concerns over environmental and community impacts, leading to protracted legal challenges that Nordic ultimately determined were insurmountable. “Activism has its place,” Chandler said, “but with oceans under increasing pressure, solutions like land-based aquaculture are essential.”
Chandler expressed gratitude to the supporters and officials who backed the project and warned of the broader implications for Maine’s investment climate. “While some may view this as a victory, it is a loss for the community, the state’s economy, and efforts to pioneer sustainable seafood solutions.”
