An environmental conservation organization is preparing to acquire a parcel of land in Belfast, Maine, once considered for a significant salmon farming project. The initiative, spearheaded by Upstream Watch, involves purchasing the 54-acre site previously owned by Nordic Aquafarms. This move marks a pivotal step in the group’s ongoing efforts to conserve local ecosystems and maintain public access to the area’s natural features.
Upstream Watch’s decision to secure the property aligns with its longstanding mission to protect the surrounding environment, including the Little River and Penobscot Bay. The location features public amenities such as a walking trail and swimming areas, which will remain available for community use. The acquisition is seen as a proactive measure to prevent future development threats that might compromise the land’s ecological integrity.
Nordic Aquafarms, a Norwegian company, had initially proposed to establish one of the world’s largest land-based salmon farms on this site, beginning in 2018. However, the project faced considerable opposition from local residents and conservation groups concerned about potential environmental damage. These concerns included the risk of pollution to Penobscot Bay, strains on local infrastructure, and conflicts with existing conservation easements.
The opposition resulted in legal challenges spearheaded by Upstream Watch and other organizations, such as the Friends of Harriet L. Hartley. Legal setbacks for Nordic included losing leases and permits, as well as a ruling by the Maine Supreme Judicial Court against their rights to local mudflats. Additionally, the Belfast City Council withdrew support for the project, reversing a decision critical to Nordic’s operations.
In January, Nordic Aquafarms announced the abandonment of the project and placed the land for sale for $2 million. The company’s CEO lamented the development as a setback for Maine’s aquaculture industry and broader investment prospects in the state.
Upstream Watch plans to use funds from a previous settlement with Nordic, alongside forthcoming fundraising efforts, to finance the land purchase. The organization intends to engage the community in future planning activities to determine the land’s use, prioritizing conservation in all deliberations.
The outcome of this acquisition underscores the community’s dedication to environmental stewardship, ensuring the preservation of local natural resources for future generations.
