JONESPORT — A group of lobstermen, marine harvesters, concerned residents and citizens have formed a group to oppose a land-based fish farm in Jonesport. Kingfish Maine, a Dutch company, seeks to grow yellowtail kingfish (commonly used in food products such as sushi). The planned facility will occupy some 15-20 acres of the 94-acre waterfront parcel of land the company has purchased. If completed, the estimated $110 million facility would produce some 6,000 to 8,000 metric tons (about 13.2 to 17.6 million pounds) annually of high-value yellowtail.

In a news release from Protect Downeast announcing the group’s formation, the group says that the project will pollute the local waters and ecosystem in Chandler Bay, jeopardizing the existing lobster fishery.

“The effects of nutrient pollution are well documented,” said organizers. “High nitrogen levels cause ocean acidification, impacts on eel grass and algal blooms.

Mount Desert Islander
April 7, 2022