Ocean Ecology develops Scottish fish health unit

Ocean Ecology, a leading provider of environmental services to the UK aquaculture industry, has opened a fish health unit in Scotland offering top-level independent advice, expertise and consultancy, based near Oban.

Jorgen Vatn is now joined by Richard Hopewell and Sara Pflaum who have 31 and 12 years, respectively, of hands-on experience in UK and international aquaculture.

“We will offer a range of services including site visits, contracted veterinary services, well-boat inspections, performance of VAHAs [Veterinary Animal Health Assessments], biosecurity assessments, VHWP [Veterinary Health and Welfare Plan] support, and training,” said Jorgen, Head of Fish Health at Ocean Ecology.

“We are constantly talking to the industry and listening to their needs. Welfare, biosecurity and preventative management come top of everyone’s lists,” said Richard, “We aim to develop a centre of excellence in Oban to try and best assist the industry, encourage positive change, and to complement the other services already available from established and respected partners.” 

Ocean Ecology also has a significant international network in Åkerblå and DNV who can be called upon to facilitate global knowledge exchange and verifiable best practice. With aquaculture set to be a key provider of top-quality food and nutrition in the 21st century, its place within the social contract needs to be likewise promoted and ensured.

Richard brings three decades of practical farming and health management experience to the company, while Sara brings more than eight years of practical experience, working with Fish Vet Group and Vet-Aqua International, followed by a four-year residency in Veterinary Clinical Pathology and a Master of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Glasgow. Her DipRCPath qualification along with  her work in salmonid haematology and blood biochemistry provides an additional distinctive area of expertise.

“Ocean Ecology opened offices in Malin House, Dunstaffnage, three years ago and rapidly developed into the go-to service provider for environmental survey and support work for Scottish aquaculture”, said Jorgen, “we now aim to extend this expertise to the critical area of fish health and welfare.” 

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