Shetland Salmon Farmers' Association was launched on 27th July 1984 at a meeting attended by 8 of the salmon farming companies representing the newly emerging industry.
Since that date the industry has grown from strength to strength and, with it, so has the Association. Membership, which is entirely voluntary, currently (2004) stands at 46 (40 salmon farms and 6 hatcheries).
During this same period production has expanded from a mere 50 tonnes in 1984 to 10,500 in 1994 and an estimated 48,000 tonnes for the current year (2004).
From its earliest beginnings the Association has always sought to represent its members on a wide variety of issues. In the early days this was achieved through the offices of a part-time secretary and later part-time Chief Executive. However, as the work-load expanded it rapidly became apparent that a more effective and permanent office required to be established.
We have renamed Shetland Salmon Farmers' Association 'Shetland Aquaculture.'
Our new name reflects the significant developments that the aquaculture industry in Shetland has experienced over the last few years.