The Mi’kmaq people are dedicated stewards of the land and the water. Protecting the environment is a key component of that stewardship. Accordingly, the Abegweit Biodiversity Enhancement Hatchery puts great stock in its green endeavours.
The hatchery itself is partially powered by a photovoltaic solar power system, directly converting sunlight into electricity. Further, the facility is lit with light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, improving electrical efficiency.
An innovative aquaponic food production system marries aquaculture (raising aquatic creatures in tanks) with hydroponics (cultivating plants in water). At the hatchery, wastewater is fed to a hydroponic system in which byproducts are broken down nitrates and nitrites that are, in turn, used in community gardens. Additional waste product from the hatchery is mixed with topsoil and sold as fertilizer.
