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Summer Small ‑ Introduction to Aquaculture

Posted by stephanie rogers on March 3, 2021 in News

Summer Small began her university career on Dalhousie University’s Agricultural Campus with the expectation of attending vet school.

“I was originally enrolled in the Pre-Vet program, but after my first year, I changed my major to Animal Science with a minor in Genetics and Molecular Biology,” explained Summer.

Summer had heard good things about the Introduction to Aquaculture course offered at the Faculty of Agriculture and decided to take it as an elective course in her second year.

Summer loved the course and the aquaculture field so much she changed her minor after she completed the course.   

“The great thing about aquaculture is that it’s always changing, and you are constantly learning. There are many opportunities all over the world in aquaculture and it is a rapidly developing industry with many different fields,” she said.

Upon graduation Summer was offered a position as an Aquaculture Technician at Sustainable Blue in Centre Burlington, Nova Scotia. Sustainable Blue Fish Farms works toward meeting the global demand for sustainably raised salmon.

“I absolutely loved my time at the AC and taking courses which interest and challenge you is all part of the university experience,” she added.  “Everything I learned in my aquaculture courses I can apply to real-life situations in my current position. The professors and laboratory instructors are wonderful and ensure you fully understand the concepts and know how to apply yourself in the field.”

Summer is the building supervisor for Sustainable Blue Fish Farms and conducts water quality tests daily, monthly sample weights, weekly harvests, and manages the systems in multiple buildings on site. It is a 100 per cent recirculating system with zero wastewater going back to the environment.

“We pride ourselves on producing high quality, sustainable Atlantic salmon, raising them from eggs to harvest size fish. I work on the saltwater side of the farm mainly, but occasionally work in the hatchery assisting with sample weights and daily tasks,” she said.

Summer graduated in 2019 earning her B.Sc. Agriculture - major in animal science and minor in aquaculture

“I utilize my knowledge of aquaculture on a daily basis in my job and would not be where I am now if it wasn’t for the amazing professors at Dalhousie.

Learn more about the Dalhousie University Aquaculture program