These ‘vertical ocean farms’ may be the future of fishing

Most farming goes hand in hand with environmental issues like polluting gases; extensive use of land, water and pesticides; or even animal welfare issues.

But some mussel and oyster farms have started using a farming method that eliminates these problems and actually boasts a net environmental benefit.

What are vertical ocean farms?

Vertical ocean farms are inspired by Bren Smith’s sustainable designs for GreenWave, an organization that supports a global network of regenerative ocean farmers. 

The designs feature ropes strung across the surface of the water attached to floating buoys and seabed anchors. Mussel rocks and scallop nets hang from these ropes into the ocean, and oyster and clam cages hang down all the way to the seabed. 

By using this design, the farming is practically invisible from the surface. Underneath the water, however, is a farm bursting with activity. 

How do they work?

These farms require no additional input from the farmer to maintain an environment for the animals and plants to thrive. 

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