Robin Muzzerall Earns 2026 Atlantic Canada Aquaculture Award

Robin Muzzerall, a longtime leader in freshwater production, hatchery operations and broodstock management, is the recipient of the 2026 Atlantic Canada Aquaculture Award in recognition of her contributions to advancing the finfish farming sector.

“Robin is a finfish farming professional whose knowledge, leadership and commitment to innovation have helped advance our industry for nearly 40 years,” said David Seeley, Chair of the Atlantic Canada Fish Farmers Association (ACFFA). “She has been part of the industry’s evolution from its earliest days, helping introduce new technologies, improve production practices and mentor the next generation of aquaculture professionals. She is highly respected throughout the sector, and this recognition is richly deserved.”

The award was presented Oct. 22 in Saint Andrews, NB, during the Atlantic Canada Fish Farmers Association’s Annual Science, Research and Technology Forum, which brought together more than 120 salmon farmers, industry stakeholders, scientists, researchers, provincial and federal government representatives, and aquaculture professionals from across the region.

Muzzerall grew up on a rural property in Clarendon, New Brunswick, where her family produced much of its own food. After earning a Bachelor of Science from Saint Mary’s University, she initially planned to pursue veterinary medicine but in 1987, she began working at Stolt Sea Farm’s South Oromocto hatchery in New Brunswick and never looked back.

Over the decades, Muzzerall has held senior positions in freshwater production, hatchery operations and broodstock management on both Canada’s East and West Coasts. Her career also took her to Whitehorse, Yukon, where she served as Vice-President of Aquaculture with Icy Waters Ltd., overseeing Arctic char production and the international shipment of eyed eggs.

She has worked with leading aquaculture companies, including Marine Harvest, Grieg Seafood BC, Gray Aqua Farms and Northern Harvest Sea Farms, as well as the Center for Aquaculture Technologies in Prince Edward Island.

In 2023, Muzzerall returned to New Brunswick to join Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd., a division of Cooke Inc., where she now serves as Director of Freshwater Operations. She played an instrumental role in bringing the company’s new state-of-the-art hatchery at Johnston’s Lake online and into operation.

Throughout her career, Muzzerall has been known for her hands-on approach, technical expertise and ability to turn innovative ideas into practical improvements in fish production. She is also passionate about sharing her knowledge and encouraging others to learn about finfish farming.

“This award isn’t just about me. I’m here because of all the people I’ve worked with and learned from throughout my career. None of us gets to this point on our own. It’s a group effort, and I’m incredibly grateful to be recognized by my peers,” said Muzzerall. “I never planned on making aquaculture my career, but here I am nearly 40 years later. In all those years, I have never been bored. This isn’t just a job. It’s a lifestyle. It’s farming, and I’m incredibly proud to be part of an industry that grows food.”

ACFFA established the Atlantic Canada Aquaculture Award in 2017. The award honours an industry professional who has dedicated 25 years or more in the areas of science, environment, and technology in support of the sustainable development of salmon aquaculture in Atlantic Canada.