The Global Aquaculture Alliance (GAA) has announced it has granted Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification to Oregon-based Pacific Seafood Group’s steelhead trout farm on the Columbia River, the first steelhead trout farm in the United States to get such a certification.
The farm is located in Nespelem, Wash., in the northeastern part of the state. The company purchased the farm in 2008, and raises the fish in pens there, together with members of the Colville Nation.
“Our team is extremely proud to receive BAP certification,” said John Bielka, general manager of Pacific Aquaculture. “It demonstrates that we are living out our company vision of providing the healthiest protein on the planet while promoting sustainable practices.”
The certification shows the farm has met standards set by the GAA for environmentally and socially responsible aquaculture practices.
“This is an exciting development for us in this species and a great step forward,” said Peter Redmond, GAA’s vice president of BAP development. “The GAA is excited to further develop our relationship with Pacific Seafood and welcomes the Colville Nation in to the growing fold of those who strive to grow fantastic quality fish in a responsible manner.”
