AUBURN, N.Y. — A small salmon farm is making waves with its recent donation to the Food Bank of Central New York. LocalCoho, which is facing closure, donated 13,000 coho salmon, providing over 40,000 pounds of much-needed protein.
The generosity of LocalCoho couldn't have come at a more urgent time. Having operated for six years as part of the sustainable salmon farming movement, the farm struggled to raise enough capital to remain profitable. The decision to close was made last week by the new majority shareholder after it became evident the company wouldn't secure additional funding.
Phil Gibson, the minority shareholder, confirmed to Undercurrent News, "The ownership group made the decision to halt additional funding for the company." This closure meant LocalCoho needed to act quickly to clear out its remaining stock of fish.
"The donation will supply vitally needed protein to over 240 food pantries, shelters, and community kitchens," reported AP, highlighting the direct impact this donation has on the local community.
With little time to spare, volunteers from the food bank, local communities, and businesses rallied to help. LocalCoho could process about 600 fish per week by hand, but with 13,000 fish left to handle, the task required more than just staff members.
A coordinated effort brought together 42 volunteers who stepped up to help capture, harvest, and process the salmon. Transportation was facilitated by Brown Carbonic’s refrigerated trucks, enabling the fish to be shipped to processing facilities. This teamwork ensured the fish were cold-packed and prepared for distribution before the impending closure.
The donation amounts to approximately 26,000 servings of protein, which can be distributed to families struggling with food insecurity. Volunteers worked rapidly to achieve this goal, demonstrating the community's commitment to supporting one another during difficult times.
LocalCoho's story is emblematic of the challenges faced by small farming operations today. Competing with larger corporations and the need for substantial capital investments has driven many sustainable farming systems to find innovative ways to survive or pivot.
Emerging from the Finger Lakes region, LocalCoho's mission started with high hopes of sustainable aquaculture. The addition of multi-million dollar investments earlier this year from noted investors Rodger May and Per Heggelund seemed promising. Yet, it wasn't enough to save the operation from closing its doors.
Unfortunately, as many small enterprises can attest, the reality of the market can be harsh, and LocalCoho's situation is no exception. Rather than letting their hard work and the fish go to waste, the farm made the commendable choice to turn their misfortunes around by donating their remaining fish to those who need it most.
The Food Bank of Central New York has been at the forefront of providing necessary sustenance to individuals and families across the region. Through partnerships with local farms like LocalCoho, they serve as a lifeline for many experiencing food insecurity.
Everybody involved emphasizes the importance of community, cooperation, and finding solutions, especially during challenging circumstances. This transformative act of generosity showcases how one farm's contributions can lead to meaningful change within the lives of many.
LocalCoho's donation is more than just about fish; it is about nourishing heart and spirit within this tight-knit community. While the salmon farm's doors may soon close, the impact it leaves behind will resonate with those it has fed.
Community efforts and initiatives like this will continue to reflect the importance of supporting local endeavors, no matter how small. The outcome serves as hope for others facing similar difficulties, reminding us all of the collective power of giving and community care.