Source: Ultfarms
This multi-use is currently being developed by Ghent University in the framework of the ULTFARMS project and aims to develop mussel, oyster and seaweed cultivation alongside nature restoration efforts within an offshore wind farm. The pilot is located within the wind farm of Belwind, operated by Parkwind.
The objectives of this multi-use are to:
- Develop restorative aquaculture of flat oysters and nature-inclusive scour protection materials to support biodiversity and the ecosystem services provided by multi-use aquaculture setups.
- Use eDNA techniques to monitor shellfish diseases.
- Demonstrate synergistic cultivation of native mussels, oysters and seaweed located within an offshore wind farm.
- Develop a submersible seaweed long line system to minimise the risk of material and biomass loss due to heavy storm events.
The hostile conditions within the Belgian part of the North Sea constitute one of the key challenges to develop this multi-use initiative, specifically when it comes to safety of aquaculture operation and infrastructure integrity.
Relevant links
Visit ULTFARMS Belgium pilot page
Contact
Prof. Annelies Declercq: Andclerc.Declercq [at] Ugent.Be (Andclerc[dot]Declercq[at]Ugent[dot]Be)