Freshwater aquaculture is idea of rearing and raising fish, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms in a controlled environment is appealing to many, given the amount of oversight possible within such a space. However, those looking to embark on – or expand their foothold in – aquaculture should make sure that their plans include environmental considerations and the proper use of geomembrane liners. Recent concerns and regulations about wild fishing and ocean life populations have moved aquaculture to the forefront in the field of providing fish and aquatic organisms to meet increasing demands.
Aquaculture
Aquaculture is defined as the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of organisms in all types of water environments. This includes algae, fish, and shellfish, like shrimp. Increased market demand for seafood, combined with technological developments, have created growing interest in aquaculture. The products of aquaculture can be used for food or other commercial products, to replenish wild stocks, or rebuild the populations of threatened or endangered species.
Aquaculture stands in contrast to commercial fishing in that aquaculture allows the cultivation of populations under controlled conditions. More than half the edible fish and shellfish consumed annually is produced by aquaculture.
Fish and Shrimp in Freshwater Aquaculture
Demand is increasing for fish and fish protein, resulting in widespread overfishing in wild fisheries. Fish farming helps alleviate the strain on wild populations while providing the supply to meet this new demand. Aquaculturists frequently invest in multiple species of fish in the same pond ecosystem in order to take full advantage of all available food sources and combat unwanted algae blooms. Fish farming can take place in a variety of environments, from the ocean to man-made pond systems to indoor fish farming.
Shrimp farming, first utilized in the 1970s, has grown exponentially and has undergone changes in order to assist with sustainable practices. The process is now heavily regulated by governmental bodies, industry representatives, and environmental organizations. Although lucrative and in high demand, shrimp farmers must follow numerous best practices in order to maintain a profit and adhere to all standards.
A large part of environmental compliance when farming fish or shrimp includes the proper use of geomembrane liners.
Geomembrane Liners
Geomembrane liners are regularly used for the containment of hazardous liquids to ensure that there is no contamination of the groundwater or surrounding structures. They are frequently required in large projects and are especially necessary in aquafarming. Even the farming of freshwater fish requires geomembrane liners to be used as pond liners in order to be in compliance with all standards.
When choosing a geomembrane liner for aquaculture, it is important to work with a trusted company and utilize their expertise. Every pond liner project is potentially unique and requires careful consideration of the location and project specifications in order to choose the proper geomembrane liner. Some of these considerations include the warranty of the product; the installation of the project; the specifications of the project materials; and the costs associated with shipping, handling, and installation.
As the majority of failures of pond liners can be traced to installation, it is important for companies to choose dependable, experienced crews in order to complete the installation. This diligence at the start of the project will vastly cut down on the possibility of container leaks and their associated costs in the future. Dependable crews will also provide clients with established evidence trails of every step of the process so that compliance in all areas can be easily proven when necessary.
Choosing ICS
International Cover Systems provides their clients with high-quality geomembrane liner materials suited to their specific projects. They also offer installation services to their clients, ensuring that the quality geomembrane liner will be properly installed for use and in compliance with all regulations. ICS delivers all their projects on time and offers the best customer experience in the geomembrane liner industry.
For companies looking to begin aquaculture, or to expand their current pond systems, ICS is the most reliable choice for a project with individualized, conscientious service to provide clients with the best product for their needs. ICS works with clients to be sure that they receive the liner their aquaculture requires, while following all federal, industrial, and ecological requirements. A geomembrane liner from ICS is installed to last and provide our clients with the best outcome on their investment.
