Salmon Case Study

October 23, 2015 /

FISH PROCESSING
Alpha Processing, Port Hardy B.C.

SITUATION

Farm raised Atlantic salmon.
Also processed fish from other sources.
Produces 20,000 tons per year.
Producing 60-70,000 gallons of wastewater per day with high levels of blood and fecal matter.
Local sewer plant will not accept the water.
Must discharge to the ocean.
Salmon fingerlings are grown in ocean pens within 2 miles of wastewater disposal site.

PROBLEMS

National and local regulations severely restrict use of chlorine in ocean waste disposal.
Concern about bacteria in waste stream contaminating fish growing areas and killing product.
Total bacteria plate count averages 12,500 CFU.

SOLUTIONS

Design multi-stage treatment system.
Incorporate screen type filter for large particulate.
Incorporate aeration float system to remove suspended solids.
Apply ozone and ultra-violet for final product water sanitation (Advanced Oxidation).

RESULTS

Eliminated chlorine from waste stream treatment.
Removed solids from waste stream.
Reduced total plate count to 252 CFU (98%).
Conformed to local and national regulations.
Reduced exposure of contamination to fish growing areas.