About
Founded by Jake Norton, an experienced aquaculture professional, Lobster Aquatic is dedicated to supporting and empowering thriving fishing communities through the establishment of affordable lobster hatcheries. Our mission is to ensure the sustainability and growth of lobster populations while providing invaluable educational opportunities and fostering community engagement.
Jake Norton
Jake's work with lobsters began at the Firth of Forth Lobster Hatchery, where he started working in 2016. By 2018, he was entrusted with the role of manager, overseeing significant improvements and innovations. Under his leadership, they achieved their most successful years of releasing juvenile lobsters into the sea. The hatchery also expanded their educational outreach, engaging with schools, the local community, and on-site visitors, all while ensuring the financial stability of the charity.
Jake's background in aquaculture is extensive and diverse, encompassing work in the salmon and shrimp industries, and more recently, with a company farming sustainable fishmeal. Since becoming the director of the Firth of Forth Lobster Hatchery in 2021, Jake has deepened his expertise in what makes a hatchery truly great. He has seen firsthand the positive impact hatcheries can have on communities, volunteers, and budding marine science careers.
Lauren - Berwickshire Marine Reserve
In 2022, Berwickshire Marine Reserve launched a small lobster hatchery as an educational resource. We were new to this and contacted Jake for advice. He expertly guided us on using our equipment, increasing productivity, and planning future improvements. His invaluable knowledge and assistance were greatly appreciated.
Joe, Whitby Lobster Hatchery
Jake's extensive knowledge of lobsters and lobster hatcheries was invalubale during the setup of our facility. His insights and guidance were instrumental, and his friendly approachable manor made every discussion both easy and highly informative. His support and information was very useful.
Paul, Cambodian Blue Crab Hatchery
Jake's expertise revolutionised our blue swimmer crab restoration in Kep, Cambodia. Despite being new to the species, he quickly adapted his extensive aquaculture knowledge to significantly improve our hatchery's success. His clear communication, friendly approach, and exceptional insights made him invaluable. Highly recommended for any aquaculture project.
What can we offer?
Years of hands-on experience have equipped Lobster Aquatic with the knowledge to build and run a successful hatchery. We understand the intricate details required to make a hatchery operate effectively, particularly for voluntary organisations. Recognising the significant challenges and high start-up costs faced by new hatcheries, we founded Lobster Aquatics to address this gap. Our company is committed to helping individuals and groups across Europe and the globe to establish successful hatcheries at affordable prices, all whilst feeling supported in their new adventure.
Overview of services
Starter Hatcheries
We can design and build affordable lobster hatcheries tailored to whatever space you have. These can include berried hen 'maternity wards', larval rearing tanks and juvenile rearing tanks.
Consultancy
Want to understand how to improve the efficiency of your hatchery? Not sure of the best way to fund your hatchery? Do you have questions on the laws and regulations that lobster hatcheries work under? Jake has many years of consultancy experience helping many hatcheries get off the ground into successful operations.
Feasibility Studies
Considering a lobster hatchery in your area but unsure of its viability? Our expert feasibility studies provide the clarity you need. We'll analyse local conditions, optimise your business plan, and pinpoint the ideal location to maximise your hatchery's success. From environmental factors to funding options, our comprehensive assessment equips you with actionable insights to transform your aquaculture vision into a thriving reality.