Background We’koqma’q began their fish farming operations in 2011. With the assistance of the Atlantic Integrated Commercial Fisheries Initiative (AICFI), We’koqma’q entered into partnership with a production and distribution partner. Initial relationship was structured such that We’koqma’q would provide infrastructure (pens, wharves, equipment) and labour. The Band was not involved in running the day- to-day operations.

Background

Background The partner company would operate the facilities through a leasing agreement and bring the product to market. In 2014, the Band began construction of a processing facility. The intent was to process fish under contract for the private sector operator of the trout farm. This arrangement remained in place until mid-2015.

Background Partnership ceased in 2015 and We’koqma’q took over operation of Fish Farm. Chief and Council urged management to move forward.

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Background Talks with Northern Sea Harvest commenced as a result of this review and a new partnership was formed. Business model was modified to grow larger trout. We’koqma’q assumed ownership and operations of the farming and processing plant with Northern Sea Harvest on board as distribution partner.

Background More than just a marketing partner, they have provided business and technical advice throughout the transition. Unique business arrangement. Split customer supply in 2 cycles base on each partner’s ability to provide product. Both levels of government and their agencies have been instrumental in providing financial and technical advice through the process.

Background All fish produced at Waycobah are sold via Northern Sea Harvest. At present, is sold head-on gutted and processed into fillets by Northern Harvest. We’koma’q is in the process of adding a fillet machine which will result in Waycobah processing and packaging the final product.

Current Operations

Current Operations We’koqma’q began operations 2015 and processed 70,000 fish in first year. Processed 200,000 this year and will process 500,000 in upcoming year 40 community members employed in trout farming and processing operations. Recently purchased Big Falls Hatchery in Wolfville as part strategy to control fingerling supply Goal is to get to Production of 1 million Trout.

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Looking Ahead/Next Steps We’koqma’q will continue to engage in mutually-beneficial partnerships to further innovate and expand our operations and to help our community, our neighbouring communities, and our partners. Partnerships are key to innovation and expansion. The sharing knowledge and expertise is a key component of any partnership. Band-controlled assets and resources like this provide myriad benefits within the community and local populations.

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Community Unique situation as Community owns Farm Part of Strategy is increase Self-Generated Revenue to fund Services Regular Up-Dates to Council. Interaction with Municipal Officials in Inverness County.

Community Community Newsletters We’koqma’q and Inverness County were picked as one of six pilots projects carried out through Federation of Canadian Municipalities. The goal of project was to strengthen relations. Signed MOU on Cooperation. Lead to Increased interaction and cooperation.