Streamlined maintenance & better fish health
In 2006, Octaform partnered with Australis Aquaculture LLC to contribute to the construction of a cutting-edge indoor farm in Turner Falls, Massachusetts. This facility, spanning an impressive 92,000 square feet, aimed to position Australis as one of the world’s largest operating indoor aquaculture facilities. Australis pioneered methods for recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and, notably, recycled over 99 percent of its water while utilizing a grain-based feed. The facility successfully produced approximately 2 million pounds of barramundi annually.
Project Partners
- Australis Aquaculture, LLC
- Great Falls Aquaculture
Octaform’s tank technology played a crucial role in the success of this project. Six grow-out tanks, each with an internal diameter of 36 feet and a height of 9 feet 11 inches, were equipped with Octaform’s stay-in-place forming system. These tanks, subjected to soil loading up to 6 feet, showcased the robustness and reliability of Octaform’s solution.
Outcomes
The smooth PVC finish of Octaform’s forming system proved to be an ideal choice for fostering a healthy environment for barramundi. The surface’s resistance to biofilm adhesion not only streamlined maintenance but also contributed to better fish health. In 2018, the land-based recirculating aquaculture system in Turner Falls was successfully sold to Great Falls Aquaculture, based in Barnstable,
Australis Aquaculture, LLC
Australis Aquaculture, a key player in the industry, sells a line of barramundi products under the Australis and Clean Harvest brands in North America, Australia, Asia, and Europe. The company has expanded its presence in Vietnam since 2006, culminating in the acquisition of Marine Farms in 2016. This acquisition included a hatchery, shore base facility, and sea sites in Nha Trang, Vietnam, further solidifying Australis’ position as a global leader in aquaculture.
Great Falls Aquaculture
The successful handover of the Turner Falls facility to Great Falls Aquaculture marked another milestone. Great Falls Aquaculture, the owner of Blue Stream Aquaculture, operates trout and barramundi farms in West Barnstable, Massachusetts, and is in the process of constructing a multi-species farm in New Hampshire. The management team includes Keith Wilda, a former production manager at Australis’ Turners Falls facility.
The need for a robust tank solution was paramount for our vertically integrated Barramundi production. We’re genuinely thrilled with Octaform – our fish are happy, healthy, and the tanks look fantastic
Conclusion
Octaform’s collaboration with Australis Aquaculture in the construction of the Turner Falls facility exemplifies the success achieved through cutting-edge technology in aquaculture infrastructure. The seamless integration of Octaform’s tank technology not only contributed to the efficiency and sustainability of the facility but also supported Australis in maintaining its position as a global leader in indoor aquaculture. The project’s success is a testament to the importance of innovative solutions in advancing the aquaculture industry toward a more sustainable and productive future.
