No!!!!!!! fish farming at all In our waters, if they really need to do it figure out a way to do it on land.
They have. It's called Recirculating Aquaculture. Basically these are closed loop systems that re-use the same water after treating it through a series of bio-filters. Frequently in the form of hydroponic vegetables that grow insanely fast in the fish "waste" water.
They've even done work using the waste water and fish carcasses, to grow fish feed, either in the form of high protein aquatic plants, worm beds, or shrimp. Obviously there must be some net input, but in theory, waste can be minimized to near zero by returning those nutrients to the system.
It's high density for both the fish and vegetables, but because it's a controlled, self-contained environment, the disease and/or genetic risks to natural eco-systems is minimal to non-existant. Seems like the ultimate "win-win" to me, and I'd bet this is the future of food. Pick a spot miles from the nearest stream to grow altantics, steelhead, or hell, piranhas for that matter.
If it were me doing a commercial operation, I'd probably pick hybrid striped bass. On a more practical note, we're looking on buying an acre or five in a few years and I'm half-tempted to try a simple version of this with yellow perch in a greenhouse outfitted with LED lighting. Would be nice to have some fresh vegetables (and I mean, tomatoes, beans, etc..) with a perch fry once a week or so.
But as far as Cooke is concerned, this is Washington after all, so maybe the profit margin from hydroponic cannabis would be enough to entice Cooke to invest the capital needed for a land-locked operation. I would think the liability insurance savings alone would be enough. ANYTHING to get the net pens out of the Sound for good.
The University of Arizona has an extensive program on Recirculating Aquaculture if anyone (like Cooke Seafood) wants to learn more: