Marbase has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Miawpukek First Nation to pursue development of a lumpfish hatchery in Marystown.

The Miapukek First Nation will have an equity position in the company.

Chair and CEO of Marbase, Paul Antle calls it an exciting opportunity. Miaqpukek Sagamaw Mi’sel Joe says the lumpfish harchery in Marystown has received overwhelming public support and he believes it will play an important role in providing the province’s salmon farmers with an environmentally friendly way to control sea lice.

Lumpfish are placed in sea cages because of its appetite for sea lice—seen as a more environmentally friendly alternative to pesticides in dealing with the marine parasites.