Bell Aquaculture News Feed

IntraFish: 'US-based companies team up with non-profits in sustainability effort'

2012-01-27T10:55:00.003-05:00

Quoting from the 1/25 IntraFish news item:

"US-based Bell Aquaculture has launched the 'Future of Fish,' a partnership to enhance its sustainability efforts.

The company, which farms yellow perch in Indiana, is teaming with the Indiana Soybean Alliance, Virginia Cobia Farms and The Conservation Fund's Freshwater Institute."

Link to the IntraFish website (aquaculture and fisheries news by subscription)

Bell Aquaculture & Indiana Soybean Alliance Jointly Announce 'Future of Fish' Partners

2012-01-25T12:19:00.004-05:00

Bell Aquaculture, a pioneer in sustainable fish farming operations, teamed with Indiana Soybean Alliance, Virginia Cobia Farms, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's School of Freshwater Sciences and The Conservation Fund's Freshwater Institute to present the 'Future of Fish' at Bell Aquaculture's operations in Albany and Redkey, Indiana. The announcement is made jointly by Norman McCowan, President of Bell Aquaculture, and Shelia Lingle, Director of Aquaculture for Indiana Soybean Alliance.

According to McCowan: "We are simply thrilled to be partnering with the Indiana Soybean Alliance, Virginia Cobia Farms and The Conservation Fund's Freshwater Institute to advance the knowledge of best practices in the Aquaculture Industry in the U.S. Our first event was January 11th here in Redkey and Albany. We look forward to hosting similar events in the near future."

Further, says Lingle: "As our country, and world, seeks sustainable, quality food options, Indiana Soybean Alliance is very pleased to be supporting this effort to provide healthy, great-tasting and ecologically responsible fish options for consumers. We've been working closely with Bell Aquaculture since its inception in 2005 to develop more sustainable, soy-based feed options for the aquaculture industry."

The 'Future of Fish' on January 11th included tours of Bell Aquaculture's production and processing facilities, followed by luncheon presentations from Fred Binkowski, Senior Scientist, School of Freshwater Sciences University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; Steven T. Summerfelt, Ph.D, P.E., Director of Aquaculture Systems Research, The Conservation Fund's Freshwater Institute; Dr. Espen Staubo, President & CEO of Low Salinity, Inc., and Virginia Cobia Farms; and Steve Hart, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Soy Aquaculture Alliance.

The luncheon was prepared by chefs from The Chef’s Academy, Indianapolis. Entrees featured breaded Bell Perch and Virginia Farms Cobia and Pompano.

Link to the PR Web Newswire

Link to Video of the Jan 11th Future of Fish Event

Better Homes & Gardens Country Gardens: 'Organic Fertilizers'

2012-01-18T00:16:00.002-05:00

Quoting from the article in the Early Spring 2012 edition:

"Making the world a greener place starts in your backyard.

8. Go Fish - A concentrate made from pure farmed yellow perch that have been raised without Chemicals and never fed anything containing...hormones. Fish Rich (NPK 2-3-2) can be used on houseplants, as well as on lawns, trees,and shrubs. From Bell Aquaculture, $25.95 for a gallon, 765-369-2718, bellaquaculture.com."

Link to the BH&G Special Interest Publications...Country Gardens...website

Illinois Field & Bean: 'Soy Industry Feeds Bell Aquaculture's Success'

2011-12-28T11:30:00.003-05:00

Quoting from the Bell Aquaculture Customer Profile in the December Illinois Field & Bean magazine:

"Sustainability is at the core of Bell Aquaculture’s operation, and extends to the feed used to raise their fish. The company has worked closely with the soy industry to develop and test feeds that grow fish efficiently and provide the same great taste as wild-caught fish."

Link to the magazine pdf (Bell article is on page 18 of the pdf)

Indy Style Features Bell Perch with Chef Jim Roberts

2011-12-26T15:02:00.005-05:00

Indy Style's Chef Jim Roberts continued his local series on WISH-TV/Channel 8 in Indy on Friday by featuring farm-raised perch from Bell Aquaculture (what other choice is there when it comes to Yellow Perch?).

Link to the video: http://www.wishtv.com/dpp/indy_style/kitchen/perched-for-perfection

Bell Perch is available for purchase online at: http://bellaquaculture.myshopify.com/collections/our-products/perch-fillets

Bell Perch Recipes Now Found on AboutSeafood.com

2011-12-05T18:07:00.003-05:00

Bell Perch recipes are now posted on the AboutSeafood.com website.

Link to the Basil & Orange Bell Perch over Linguini recipe at the site.

Link to the Blueberry Perch Breakfast Bake recipe at the site.

AboutSeafood.com is brought to you by the National Fisheries Institute and its members to provide you with seafood recipes, nutritional and health information about seafood.

Bell Aquaculture Receives $467K Conserving Hoosier Industrial Power (CHIP) Grant

2011-10-22T13:42:00.004-04:00

Quoting from InsideINdianaBusiness.com:

"Seven Hoosier companies will divide nearly $2.5 million in federal grants to make energy efficiency and alternative fuel improvements. The recipients were awarded funding from the Conserving Hoosier Industrial Power grant program and the Alternative Fuel Vehicles retrofit program...

The Conserving Hoosier Industrial Power (CHIP) grant program is making funding available for large energy efficiency projects in Indiana commercial/industrial sector. The first four recipients of CHIP funding in 2011 are Bell Aquaculture of Albany ($467,494.00), Brightpoint North America, L.P. of Plainfield ($500,000.00), MD Logistics of Plainfield ($212,374.00) and Ryobi Die Casting USA in Shelbyville ($500,000.00). These awardees will use the funding for lighting retrofits, HVAC, controls, motor, pump and insulation upgrades."

Link to InsideINdianaBusiness.com

Fish Farming News Feature - 'Bell Aquaculture: From tiny perch a mighty business grows'

2011-09-28T13:09:00.004-04:00

Bell Aquaculture is featured in the current edition (Volume 10, Issue 4 2011) of Fish Farming News - Aquaculture's National Newspaper. Quoting from the article by FFN Contributing Writer Brian Robbins:

"'Vertically integrated' is a phrase that Bell uses frequently in describing itself: pretty much self-sufficient, relying only on outside suppliers for fee. Other than that, they've built their own little world in five years' time and can definitely call their fish their own, from broodstock and eggs, to harvesting and processing on the other end. With their existing facility, Bell is looking at producing 1.8 million yellow perch in a one-year growout cycle. The new addition that's currently under construction (with plans to be up and going by October) will add another 3 million yellow perch a year to Bell's forecast. But wait - it doesn't stop there: Bell's next expansion will boost that number significantly, with the company hoping to have the capacity to handle an additional 7.5 million perch by 2013."

Link to the FFN website for subscription details

Today's IBJ: 'Swimming with Potential ... Fish farming could become $1B industry in Indiana'

2011-09-26T13:37:00.006-04:00

Quoting from the special report in the Indianapolis Business Journal by Sam Stall:

"The ISA’s golden boy is Redkey-based Bell Aquaculture, the state’s only industrial-scale fish farming outfit. While Indiana’s aquaculture industry produces only 1 million pounds of fish annually, expansion plans at Bell will double that number by next year.

And the technology the company is developing could pave the way for even higher production. Put simply, company officials have figured out how to raise their fish—yellow perch—indoors under highly controlled conditions, just as chicken and hog farmers do.

The company’s plant raises 1.8 million fish annually. That number will balloon to 3 million when a $5 million expansion wraps up in 2012.

To no surprise, Bell President Norman McCowan is bullish on Indiana’s aquaculture potential, believing that the state (and his company in particular) possesses the three things necessary to make a go of it: sustainable technology, readily available food (soybeans) and water, and funding."

Link to the ibj.com article (subscription required)

FFI: 'Aquaculture, time to plug hole left by decreased wild catch'

2011-09-15T21:36:00.005-04:00

Quoting from the article by Rijuta Dey in the September issue of the Intrafish Fish Farming International:

"The U.S. aquaculture industry nees to focus on sustainable production and consolidate itself like other protein sectors such as chicken, the country's largest yellow perch producer told FFI, adding that the country's insatiable demand for healthy protein should increasingly be met by domestic players.

'I see the demand for healthy seafood raised in a sustainable manner increasing in the near future,' said Norman McCowan, president of Bell Aquaculture, a yellow perch-producing company that recently invested $5 million to expand its production facility in Albny Indiana, and plans to raise 20 million yellow perch by 2016.'"

Link for details on how to subscribe to Fish Farming International

Bell Aquaculture is donating and cooking the fish at today's fifth annual White River Cleanup

2011-09-10T13:02:00.002-04:00

Quoting from The Star Press on the 8th:

"MUNCIE -- More than 200 volunteers have registered for the fifth annual White River Cleanup on Saturday, but more are needed...Organizers are hoping 300 people will volunteer for the event starting at 8 a.m. at Westside Park and ending three hours later with a free fish fry. Bell Aquaculture is donating and cooking the fish. Volunteers, who can register at the park, also get free T-shirts."

Link to thestarpress.com

Charleston Gazette: 'A natural fertilizer'

2011-08-12T12:56:00.003-04:00

Quoting from the August 6th posting by Sara Busse:

"If you like to garden organically, here's a natural fertilizer idea. Fish have been used as soil fertilizer since the American Indians first began farming the land centuries ago. Fish Rich is an organic liquid plant fertilizer (2-3-2) made from the remains of perch raised and processed at Bell Aquaculture, a fish farm in Indiana. Because the fish are raised in a pristine environment, what's going into the soil is pure and free of anything unnatural -- so it's garden and human safe. In addition to pre-mixed Fish Rich, the company can create custom-blended fertilizer to fit your needs.

It's sustainability in action; what others consider waste, they use as a way to return nutrients to the earth."

Link to wvgazette.com

July 24: "Organic Fertilizer that Works! Fish Rich Review"

2011-07-27T14:31:00.006-04:00

Quoting from the review by Cindy Orley:

"The spike of growth was so amazing after I used the Fish Rich Organic Fertilizer. It was like they grew overnight. I could see noticeable changes in just a few days on our pepper plant...

Plus, according to the seminar I attended, fish fertilizer keeps deer away at least for a few days due to the fish scent. The scent is mild and only noticeable upon application.

I highly recommend Fish Rich and will never go back to chemicals to fertilize my gardens...

This was not a paid post. My own opinions were used based on my perceptions and experience. Thank you to Fish Rich who provided the product for review."

Link to AkronOhioMoms.com

"$5 M expansion for Bell Farm one key in aquaculture growth"

2011-07-11T15:31:00.004-04:00

Quoting the June 29th article:

"Albany, Ind. - While many aren't aware there are fish farms here, Bell Aquaculture in Albany in east-central Indiana just announced a $5 million expansion of its five-year-old operation."

Link to the Farm World website

"Hungry Plants Will Love These Organic Options"

2011-07-11T15:20:00.005-04:00

Quoting from the July 5 issue:

"To keep your plants healthy and happy, you've got to water them and feed them (and talk to them, of course!) When it comes to plant food, though, the sheer number of options on the nursery shelves can be confusing...fishy option - Fish Rich is made from toxin- and mercury-free fish and gives plants calcium in addition to nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium."

Link to Extra Dirt

Home & Garden Guide: Fish Rich™ Organic Fertilizer

2011-07-11T15:14:00.004-04:00

Quoting from the guide:

"Fish Rich™(2-3-2), Bell Aquaculture's organic liquid plant fertilizer, is made from the remains of Bell Perch Yellow Perch raised and processed in Indiana. Because Bell's fish are raised in a pristine environment, you can be sure that what’s going into the soil is pure and free of anything unnatural. Simply, it’s garden and human safe. Fish Rich™ is sustainability in action: what others consider waste, Bell Aquaculture uses as a way to return nutrients to the earth. Fish Rich™ may be ordered online at the Bell Aquaculture website."

Link to Splash Worldwide

From June 18: 'Organic Gardening with Fish Rich Fertilizer'

2011-06-26T16:13:00.003-04:00

Quoting from The Suburban Jungle:

"My parents were organic gardeners by default - it was just how they were raised. Years later, I became an organic gardener - first out of laziness (who wants to figure out all the fertilizer/pesticide rules) and then out of concern for what is going into our bodies and our world.

So over my many years, I've come to know a thing or two about organic gardening. I've learned that by NOT fertilizing your plants, you end up with a much smaller harvest. I've learned that beyond the chemical impact, organic fertilizers provide a more complete nutrient profile - micronutrients, enzymes, trace minerals, etc. I've also learned that not all organic fertilizers are created equal."

Link to The Suburban Jungle

From June 16: 'Bell Aquaculture launches fish-rich organic fertilizer'

2011-06-26T16:10:00.004-04:00

Quoting from the posting:

"REDKEY, Ind. — Bell Aquaculture, the nation’s largest yellow perch farm and pioneer in sustainable fish farming operations, has launched the new product, Fish Rich Organic Fertilizer 2-3-2. 'Fish have been used as soil fertilizer since the Native Americans first began farming our nearby land centuries ago. Our new natural plant fertilizer, Fish Rich, is made from the remains of the Bell Perch processed at our aquaculture facility in Indiana,' said, Bell Aquaculture president Norman McCowan.

Link to AgriNews online

The Ag Revolution: 'Organic Fertilizer from Fish'

2011-06-12T17:29:00.004-04:00

Quoting from the June 1 Posting:

"We recently learned that the Bell Aquaculture, the largest farmer of yellow perch (Perca flavescens), and a company committed to sustainable farming, has begun selling fish by-products as an organic fertilizer.

This started me thinking about the American Indians and their farming techniques. One myth is that Native Americans used fish as fertilizer to a significant extent. Squanto apparently showed the Pilgrims how to use fish for fertilizer in 1621, but there is no evidence that the Indians customarily followed this practice. Historians believe Native American farmers used crop rotation more often than fertilizing with organic matter.

It is now thought that Indian agriculturists used fire to control weeds and brush and to mineralize nutrients. Although burning depletes nitrogen and sulfur, it recycles organic-bound nutrients such as phosphorous, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. When the land was depleted, they moved on, as you would expect for a culture without property rights and with a small population relative to the available land.

Working to soil to maximize production, with fertilizer, crop rotation and crop selection becomes important when the farmer is committed to a specific parcel of land. So we were excited to hear that the byproducts from organic fish farming is now available from a company that is committed to sustainable farming."

Link to theagrevolution.com

FIS.com Companies & Products: 'Bell Aquaculture Breaks Ground On USD 5 Million Expansion'

2011-06-12T09:41:00.003-04:00

Quoting from the posting:

"Bell Aquaculture, a pioneer in sustainable fish farming operations, broke ground last week on a USD 5 million expansion at its production facility in Albany, Indiana, the largest yellow perch (Perca flavenscens) fish farm in the United States.

The announcement is made by Norman McCowan, president of Bell Aquaculture, who says, 'Our team has been working diligently to bring this expansion to fruition and are thrilled the financing finally came together to help fuel Bell Aquaculture's continued growth.'"

Link to fis.com

Spanish version - Bell Aquaculture Comienza Expansión De USD 5 Millones

Just Posted: 'Bell Aquaculture Breaks Ground On $5 Mil Yellow Perch Farm Expansion'

2011-06-10T11:37:00.003-04:00

Quoting from Perishable News:

"Bell Aquaculture, a pioneer in sustainable fish farming operations, broke ground on a $5 million expansion at its production facility in Albany, IN -- the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavenscens) fish farm. The announcement is made by Norman McCowan, president of Bell Aquaculture, who says, "Our team has been working diligently to bring this expansion to fruition and are thrilled the financing finally came together to help fuel Bell Aquaculture's continued growth."

Link to PerishableNews.com

SeafoodSource: 'Bell Aquaculture expands perch facility'

2011-06-07T18:14:00.003-04:00

Quoting from the June 6th posting:

"Bell Aquaculture on Friday broke ground on a USD 5 million expansion at its production plant in Indiana, the United States’ largest farmed yellow perch facility.

Partnering with The Conservation Fund, Indiana Soybean Alliance and Pranger Enterprise to further develop Indiana aquaculture using sustainable water recycling technology, the expansion will add 3 million fish annually to the facility’s capacity."

Link to SeafoodSource.com

TheFishSite Latest News: 'Bell Aquaculture: $5 Million Expansion'

2011-06-07T17:54:00.003-04:00

Quoting from TheFishSite:

"Bell Aquaculture, a leader in sustainable fish farming operations, has announced a planned $5 million expansion at its production facility in Albany, Indiana, the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavenscens) fish farm.

The announcement was made by Norman McCowan, president of Bell Aquaculture, who said, 'Our team has been working diligently to bring this expansion to fruition and are thrilled the financing finally came together to help fuel Bell Aquaculture's continued growth.'"

Link to thefishsite.com

Hoosier Ag Today: 'Bell Aquaculture of Indiana Expanding Largest in Nation Operation'

2011-06-07T17:30:00.002-04:00

Quoting from Hoosier Ag Today:

"June has already been a significant month for Indiana based Bell Aquaculture. The Delaware County yellow perch fish farm, the largest in the nation, is getting even larger with the Friday groundbreaking of a $5 million expansion of the growing operation.

Company president Norman McCowan says the grow building being constructed in Albany is 38,000 square feet...

...Also this month Bell Aquaculture announced a new product, Fish Rich Organic Fertilizer, a natural plant fertilizer. The remains of the day’s fish processing are ground up to create a liquid fertilizer for the home garden and organic markets. Fish Rich is available for purchase at the company website."

Link to an mp3 download of Norman McCowan's interview with Andy Eubank

Link to the Hoosier Ag Today posting

Business Line: 'Bell plans plant expansion'

2011-06-07T17:13:00.002-04:00

Quoting from the Star Press:

"Bell Aquaculture, which owns sustainable fish farming operations, has broken ground on a $5 million expansion at its production facility in Albany, which the company calls the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavenscens) fish farm."

Link to thestarpress.com

Green Living Guy: Fish Rich Launch and Bell Aquaculture Expansion

2011-06-06T15:14:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Seth Leitman, That Green Living Guy, for posting both of Bell Aquaculture's recent announcements - the Fish Rich launch and $5 Million Expansion:

Bell Aquaculture Launches New Product: Fish Rich Organic Fertilizer 2-3-2

Bell Aquaculture Announces $5 Million Expansion For Sustainable Fish Farming

Seth Leitman, The Green Living Guy, is also the author and editor of alternative energy books and Green Guru Guides for McGraw-Hill.

This morning: 'Indiana Fish Farm Expanding'

2011-06-06T13:19:00.003-04:00

Quoting from InsideINBusiness.com:

"Bell Aquaculture has broken ground on a $5 million expansion at its fish farm in Albany. The northeast Indiana facility is the nation’s largest yellow perch fish farm, and the added capacity will provide three million more fish per year."

Link to this morning's posting.

Bell Aquaculture Breaks Ground on $5 Million Expansion

2011-06-03T19:26:00.002-04:00

Redkey, IN - June 3, 2011 - Bell Aquaculture, a pioneer in sustainable fish farming operations, broke ground today on a $5 million expansion at its production facility in Albany, IN -- the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavenscens) fish farm. The announcement is made by Norman McCowan, president of Bell Aquaculture, who says, "Our team has been working diligently to bring this expansion to fruition and are thrilled the financing finally came together to help fuel Bell Aquaculture's continued growth."

Further, according to McCowan: "We are happy to partner with The Conservation Fund, Indiana Soybean Alliance, and Pranger Enterprise, Inc., to further develop Indiana aquaculture using sustainable water recycling technology. The added capacity of 3 million more fish per year is much needed to meet our growing customer demand."

Those in attendance at the ground breaking included: Ed Messer, Construction Management; Nick Zaccaria, Bell Aquaculture; Nick Pranger, Construction Management; Gabe Pranger, Construction Management; Steve Summerfelt, The Conservation Fund; Joe Hankins, The Conservation Fund; Mike Hines, Bell Aquaculture; Steve Hart, Indiana Soybean Alliance; Norman McCowan, Bell Aquaculture; Brian Baldwin, Bell Aquaculture; Ann Baldwin, Bell Aquaculture; Josh Pranger, Construction Management; Bruce Baldwin, Muncie-Delaware County Economic Development Alliance; and Mike Swinford, Briner Construction.

Link to the PR Newswire release

New Product Launch: Fish Rich Organic Fertilizer 2-3-2 - It's Fish Food For Your Plants

2011-06-01T14:52:00.003-04:00

Bell Aquaculture, the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm and pioneer in sustainable fish farming operations, has launched the new product, Fish Rich Organic Fertilizer 2-3-2 (Fish Rich), available for purchase online at the company website. The announcement is made by Norman McCowan, president of Bell Aquaculture, who says, "Fish have been used as soil fertilizer since the Native Americans first began farming our nearby land centuries ago. Our new natural plant fertilizer, Fish Rich, is made from the remains of the Bell Perch processed at our aquaculture facility in Indiana."

Fish Rich is made from toxin- and mercury-free fish, has a very mild fish odor and is good for any soil. Fish Rich contains these three major nutrients:

* Nitrogen, which promotes green leaves, and quicker growth response.
* Phosphorous, which is good for root growth, disease resistance, promoting seed and fruit growth, and for blooming and flowering.
* Potassium, which increases root growth, and offers disease and drought resistance.

Further, Fish Rich is also a good source of calcium. "Calcium is essential for all plants and their maturity. Plants need calcium for cell wall development and growth. Pathogens attack weak cell walls to invade a plant, and a stronger cell wall structure will play a big part in avoiding this potential problem," McCowan explains.

Link to the new product newswire

Company Profile: 'Yellow Perch at Sea in the Cornfields of Indiana'

2011-05-31T12:29:00.003-04:00

Quoting from the company profile by Robert Puro:

"What’s makes Bell Aquaculture stand out, aside from the fact that it is the nation’s largest producer of yellow perch, is the company’s dedication to sustainability throughout every link in its operation. Even before Bell built its innovative aquaculture facility and harvested its first fish, sustainability was priority one.

To insure efficient and sustainable water usage in its aquaculture operation, Bell uses an indoor state of the art Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS), which was developed at the Freshwater Institute in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. On a flow basis Bell’s RAS reuses 99.8% of the water in the system. Additionally, the water that the fish are farmed in is purified on-site and held to almost the same standards as the municipal water supply. 'We want to make sure that we are good stewards of everything we do including the water that we use,' said McCowan. Having an indoor system also insures against danger from outside environmental contamination of any kind."

Link to the Seedstock Company Profile of Bell Aquaculture

'Bell Aquaculture raises about 2 million yellow perch on its farm in Indiana each year, making it the leader in aquaculture production in the state'

2011-04-01T15:18:00.004-04:00

Quoting from the AgriNews article by Katie Nickas:

"ALBANY, Ind. — Bell Aquaculture raises about 2 million yellow perch on its farm in Indiana each year, making it the leader in aquaculture production in the state.

'We are based in Indiana, but our sales cover the Great Lakes region,' said president Norman McCowan. 'We have our own brood stock, we’re vertically integrated and we raise our own fingerlings.'

The company went into business in 2005, completed the Indiana State Department of Agriculture’s certified livestock producer program last August and is expanding its facility to include a market for Indiana’s soybean farmers, as well."

International Boston Seafood Show Panel: "Is what farmed fish eat sustainable?"

2011-03-10T11:56:00.003-05:00

Quoting from the article posting that mentions Bell Aquaculture's participation:

"The first panel session at the upcoming International Boston Seafood Show will draw together experts from throughout the aquaculture industry to examine how current feed practices impact the overall sustainability of aquaculture. The panel, moderated by Dr. Steven Hart of the Indiana Soybean Alliance and supported by the United Soybean Board, includes representatives from producer Bell Aquaculture, feed manufacturer Silver Cup Fish Feeds, USDA Agricultural Research Service, the U.S. Soybean Export Council, and environmental NGO Ocean Conservancy."

Link to FISHupdate.com

Spring 2011 Issue: My Indiana Home Features Bell Aquaculture: "Go Fish"

2011-02-26T10:13:00.006-05:00

Quoting from the Indiana Farm Bureau article by Cris Goode for the Bureau's member publication:

"Hoosiers might be surprised to find that Bell – located right here in Indiana – is the nation’s largest yellow perch farm. Bell’s indoor production facilities are located in Albany, Ind., just north of Muncie. 'We chose to raise yellow perch for two reasons: the high demand for the popular fish and the limited supply available,' says Norman McCowan, president of Bell. Raising fish from its own 'broodstock' – or breeding stock – to processing and packaging on-site,Bell is unique in its commitment and ability to have a hand in the entire process from beginning to end."

Link to the Spring 2011 My Indiana Home magazine online (pages 14 & 15)

Indiana Farm Bureau features 'Blueberry Perch Breakfast Bake' Recipe

2011-02-26T09:20:00.006-05:00

Bell Aquaculture's President Norman McCowan says "the unusual-sounding Blueberry Perch Breakfast Bake is his favorite way to eat yellow perch."

Link to the recipe at the My Indiana Home blog

Link to the Bell Aquaculture article by Cris Goode for the Indiana Farm Bureau's My Indiana Home

About the site: 'My Indiana Home is produced for Indiana Farm Bureau members. Our mission is to connect you with the food you eat, the Indiana farmers who grow it and a rural lifestyle that is uniquely Hoosier.'

Indiana Farm Bureau: 'Bell Aquaculture Farms a Fish-Fry Favorite'

2011-02-26T08:45:00.003-05:00

Quoting from the blog post by Cris Goode for the Indiana Farm Bureau:

"A Great Lakes Friday night fish fry just wouldn’t be the same without the sweet, mild flavor of the region’s favorite fish, yellow perch. While fishing regulations now limit availability of the popular fish to the hungry public, Bell Aquaculture seeks to feed that demand with its farm-raised yellow perch.

Since launching in 2008, Bell’s fish has been featured at the prestigious James Beard House in New York City, at traditional Hoosier events such as the annual Purdue Fish Fry, and at restaurants across the state from the Summit Club in South Bend all the way down to the French Lick Resort in southern Indiana."

Link to read the article posting

About the site: 'My Indiana Home is produced for Indiana Farm Bureau members. Our mission is to connect you with the food you eat, the Indiana farmers who grow it and a rural lifestyle that is uniquely Hoosier.'

Bell Aquaculture Sponsors Fish Fry for The Friends of Limberlost State Historic Site

2011-02-21T12:27:00.005-05:00

Bell Aquaculture is sponsoring a Fish Fry for The Friends of Limberlost State Historic Site March 4, 4-8 p.m., at the Lions Civic Center in Portland, IN. Proceeds will help pay construction costs of the Limberlost State Historic Site Welcome Center. The Friends of the Limberlost have been raising funds to build this 4,000 sq. ft. facility, which will be located adjacent to the historic site in Geneva, IN.

The Bell Perch feast also includes a serving of coleslaw, baked beans, potato chips, roll and lemonade. Cost for adults is $8 and $5 for children 10 years old or younger. Pie and soft drinks will be available for an additional fee. Carry out will be offered.

For more information about the Fish Fry, please contact Norman McCowan, President of Bell Aquaculture, at 765-748-3431.

Link to the "Friends Fry Fish for Limberlost Friday, March 4" news release

More about Limberlost: The Limberlost State Historic Site, located in Adams County, and the Loblolly Marsh Wetland Preserve, located in Jay County, are both in northeastern Indiana. Limberlost SHS is part of the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, a division of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources; the “Limberlost Cabin”, located in Geneva, IN, was the home of author and naturalist Gene Stratton-Porter. The historic site and the nearby Loblolly Marsh Wetland Preserve illustrates Stratton-Porter’s story of environmental activism. For more information, call 260.368.7428 or visit http://www.indianamuseum.org/limberlost.

InsideINdianaBusiness.com Report: "Bell Perch to be Served at Purdue Fish Fry"

2011-01-20T13:11:00.004-05:00

Quoting from the report:

"INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Purdue University’s Agricultural Alumni Fish Fry on Saturday, February 5, 2011 will once again feature Bell Perch, an Indiana farm-raised yellow perch, thanks to Indiana soybean farmers.

This is the third year that the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA) has provided fish from Indiana-based Bell Perch — the nation’s largest yellow perch fish farm – to the menu for Purdue’s oldest and largest constituent alumni meeting which takes place on the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis...

Tickets for the Ag Alumni Fish Fry are $20 and must be purchased in advance. Tickets are available by contacting the Purdue Ag Alumni office at 765-494-8593 or by e-mailing agalumni@purdue.edu."

Link to the InsideINdianaBusiness.com report

Recently Published Books Now Include Bell Perch Nutritional Data

2011-01-20T12:40:00.004-05:00

The "Nutrition Experts" have included Bell Perch in two recently released editions of The Protein Counter (3rd edition - page 306) and The Diabetes Counter (4th edition - page 350):

"The Protein Counter, 3nd Ed. - The best source for reliable nutrition information about protein. We cut through the myths and get to the facts. You’ll find simple steps to determine your individual protein needs along with the calorie, protein, fat and carb values for over 15,000 foods and 82 restaurant chains. Hundreds of energy bars and drinks are listed." Link to the new Protein Counter on Amazon

"The Diabetes Counter, 4th Ed. - Celebrating 20 years in print, with over a half million satisfied readers! The Diabetes Counter has been helping people manage diabetes since 1991. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or trying to fine-tune your diabetes management, the 4th edition, written by Karen J. Nolan, PhD and Jo-Ann Heslin, MA, RD, will simplify meal planning so you can reduce your risks for complications without giving up the foods you love." Link to the new Diabetes Counter on Amazon

Fish Farming News: 'Bell Aquaculture on the move: Nation's largest yellow perch farm announces honors, expansion'

2010-12-12T12:29:00.007-05:00

Quoting from the article (Issue 4 - 2010 in Fish Farming News - Aquaculture's National Newspaper):

"REDKEY, IN - For those around the industry, Fish Farming News included, who may have been monitoring the much vaunted start-up of Bell Aquaculture here with a degree of skepticism, now's the time for a rethink.

First, it is probably not accurate to call Bell a 'start-up' operation any longer; they've been around since 2005.

Second, while the company's claims of being the country's largest yellow perch farm and its penchant for getting media attention tend to make some folks nervous, the fact is Bell has been making remarkable progress toward achieving its business objectives."

Link to the Fish Farming News website for information about subscribing or obtaining a back issue.

From The Star Press, Muncie: "Bell Aquaculture honored by state"

2010-10-17T14:09:00.003-04:00

Quoting from the news item:

"INDIANAPOLIS -- Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman has recognized Bell Aquaculture LLC in Delaware County, which recently completed the voluntary Indiana State Department of Agriculture Certified Livestock Producer Program. 'Our Indiana livestock and poultry producers' personal values embody integrity, responsibility and accountability,' said Skillman. 'These values and more are required to complete this program. I congratulate Bell Aquaculture who now joins other exceptional producers who have demonstrated their commitment to these values through using progressive practices and procedures.'"

Link to thestarpress.com

Bell Aquaculture Bell Perch Makes Its TV Debut on WISH TV's Indy Style

2010-09-22T12:39:00.005-04:00

It all started when Bell Perch was included on the menu for Joseph Decuis night at the James Beard House in New York last month. Today, Bell Aqualculture Pres/CEO Norman McCowan joined Joseph Decuis Proprietor Alice Eshelman and Executive Chef Aaron Butts for the cooking segments on the live Indy Style show (WISH TV Channel 8) in Indianapolis.

Aaron prepared Wagyu beef mini-burgers in the first segment while Alice shared the Joseph Decuis Story with viewers. Norman joined in on the second segment to tell the Bell Aquaculture Bell Perch story while Aaron prepared yellow perch ceviche. Both the mini-burgers and the ceviche were on the James Beard menu.

Bell Aquaculture is one of the Joseph Decuis "Like-Minded Farms" - as explained on the Joseph Decuis website: "These are farms like ours who share our belief that quality is more important than mass-produced foods, and that family farming is in the blood. Each believe in natural, drug-free, humane, practices. We’re proud to use these farm-raised products to bring excellent tasting, healthy food to your plate – both at our restaurant and at your home."

Link to video of the TV appearance (note Bell Perch is in the second and third parts)

Video of Joseph Decuis Night at the James Beard House in August:

Joseph Decuis Includes Bell Perch In Ceviche Appetizer at James Beard House In New York

2010-09-12T12:09:00.003-04:00

Business at a Glance: "Joseph Decuis restaurant was invited to serve at the James Beard House. It is the first Indiana restaurant invited to serve there and planned to feature Bell Aquaculture Bell Perch for its ceviche appetizer."

Link to the posting

Business Line - Milestones: Joseph Decuis' James Beard Event & ISDA Recognition

2010-09-12T11:56:00.002-04:00

"MUNCIE Bell perch marks milestones...East Central Indiana-based Bell Aquaculture marked two notable events in its history in recent weeks."

Link to the posting

"Business at a Glance" - ISDA Recognition

2010-09-12T11:38:00.002-04:00

"Bell Aquaculture LLC was recognized by Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman and the Indiana Department of Agriculture for excellence in progressive farm practices. It is the first aquaculture facility in Indiana to receive this designation."

Link to the posting

"Bell Aquaculture completes certified producer program"

2010-09-12T11:24:00.003-04:00

"Bell Aquaculture LLC recently completed the voluntary Indiana State Department of Agriculture Certified Livestock Producer Program.

'Our Indiana livestock and poultry producers personal values embody integrity, responsibility and accountability,' said Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman.

'These values and more are required to complete this program. I congratulate Bell Aquaculture who now joins other exceptional producers who have demonstrated their commitment to these values through using progressive practices and procedures.'"

Link to the posting

"Bell Aquaculture Recognized for its 'Excellence in Progressive Farm Practice'"

2010-09-12T11:00:00.003-04:00

"Bell Aquaculture LLC has been recognized by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) and by Indiana Lt. Governor Rebecca S. Skillman for its excellence in progressive farm practices.

The announcement has been made by Norman McCowan, President and CEO, who says Bell Aquaculture recently completed the voluntary ISDA Certified Livestock Producer Program (CLPP) in order to qualify for the review and is the first aquaculture facility in Indiana and one of only a few in the nation to receive this type of designation."

Link to the posting

Eye on Operations: Farm award for Bell Aquaculture

2010-09-01T09:55:00.001-04:00

"Perch processor Bell Aquaculture LLC said Indiana Lt. Governor Rebecca S. Skillman and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) recognized Bell's Albany, Ind., plant and aquaculture operations for excellence in progressive farm practices. Bell President & CEO Norman McCowan said Bell recently completed the voluntary ISDA Certified Livestock Producer Program in order to qualify for the review and is the first aquaculture facility in Indiana and one of only a few in the nation to receive this type of designation.

Bell was founded in 2005 in Albany Indiana. McCowan said Bell's 53-acre this yellow perch farm is the largest in the country. Bell's production facility incorporates 43 acres of ground and officials hope to process more than 6.5 million fish annually 2015, said McCowan."

Link to Refrigerated & Frozen Foods

Check out this great video of Joseph Decuis' James Beard event (that included Bell Perch) last week!

2010-08-31T17:06:00.003-04:00

Link to the PR Web newswire

Link to a pdf of the full menu

Link to the Joseph Decuis website

A Taste of Indiana Today in Indianapolis: Come Out & Say Hello to the Bell Aquaculture Bell Perch™ Team

2010-08-29T11:17:00.005-04:00

Bell Aquaculture is proud to be a sponsor of today's DIG*IN "A Taste of Indiana" at Indy's White River State Park.

Aaron Butts, Executive Chef at Roanoke's Joseph Decuis restaurant, is one of the chefs at DIG*IN. As an aside, Joseph Decuis included Bell Perch in its menu this past week at the presitigious James Beard House in New York. Read more: First Indiana Restaurant Invited to Serve at New York's Prestigious James Beard House - Indiana's Joseph Decuis Selects Bell Perch™ for Its Ceviche Appetizer

About DIG*IN: "Indiana growers will make their way to White River State Park to showcase their high quality locally produced products, and remind Hoosiers there is much more than corn in Indiana. Dig-IN will feature educational discussion panels, cooking demonstrations, urban gardening exhibits, local chef Q&A sessions, wine tastings, beer and food pairing classes, and much more. Combining the freshness of farmer's markets and our state's greatest food minds, this event promises a feast for the senses. Prepare to learn from Indiana agricultural and culinary experts as they invite you on a journey from field to table top. Don't miss the opportunity to help us celebrate all that Indiana agriculture has to offer." See you Noon - 6 p.m. today (admission required).

Link for complete event details

Indiana’s Joseph Decuis, First Indiana Restaurant Invited to Serve at New York’s Prestigious James Beard House: Bell Perch Was On The Team

2010-08-26T11:48:00.005-04:00

From Monday August 23: "When guests sit down to dine at New York’s prestigious James Beard house tonight, Bell Aquaculture Bell Perch™ will be on the menu in the “Perch Ceviche with Crispy Rice Cake, Lime Air & Chili Pepper” hors d’oeuvres offering. Joseph Decuis is the first restaurant in Indiana to be invited to serve at New York’s prestigious James Beard House."

Link to Goort's Gourmet Food

Bell Aquaculture receives 'Excellence in Progressive Farm Practice'

2010-08-26T11:38:00.003-04:00

"Indiana Lt. Governor Rebecca S. Skillman and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) have recognized Bell Aquaculture LLC for excellence in progressive farm practices.

Bell Aquaculture recently completed the voluntary ISDA Certified Livestock Producer Program (CLPP) in order to qualify for the review and is the first aquaculture facility in Indiana and one of only a few in the nation to receive this type of designation."

Link to Growfish

Largest yellow perch farm in the country recognized by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) as a Certified Livestock Producer

2010-08-26T00:54:00.004-04:00

"Bell Aquaculture LLC, the largest yellow perch farm in the country, located in Delaware County is the latest to be recognized by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) as a Certified Livestock Producer.

'Our Indiana livestock and poultry producers’ personal values embody integrity, responsibility and accountability,' said Lt. Governor Becky Skillman. 'These values and more are required to complete this program. I congratulate Bell Aquaculture who now joins other exceptional producers who have demonstrated their commitment to these values through using progressive practices and procedures.'

Since its start in 2008, 29 livestock facilities in Indiana have become certified."

Note: Bell Aquaculture is the first aquaculture facility to receive such recognition in Indiana.

Link to the blog post

Bell Aquaculture's Yellow Perch Farm Is 1st In Indiana To Receive 'Excellence in Progressive Farm Practice' Award

2010-08-25T23:09:00.003-04:00

Indiana Lt. Governor Rebecca S. Skillman and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) have recognized Bell Aquaculture LLC for excellence in progressive farm practices. The announcement is made by Norman McCowan, President & CEO, who says Bell Aquaculture recently completed the voluntary ISDA Certified Livestock Producer Program (CLPP) in order to qualify for the review and is the first aquaculture facility in Indiana and one of only a few in the nation to receive this type of designation.

"We are thrilled that our operation has received this recognition," McCowan says. "The yellow perch that we’re raising, the Bell Perch™, is a higher quality product from the standpoint that there is no real possibility of contaminants entering into their food chain during their growth. We have absolute control over our water supply, since they are raised in-house there is no opportunity for bird predation, pesticides or herbicides to get into the flesh of the fish that you and I might sit down to eat.”

Link to the PR Web newswire

Food Industry Today: Indiana's Joseph Decuis, First Indiana Restaurant Invited to Serve at NY's Prestigious James Beard House, Takes Bell Perch™ Along

2010-08-24T12:33:00.003-04:00

"When guests sit down to dine at New York’s prestigious James Beard house tonight, Bell Aquaculture Bell Perch™ will be on the m...enu in the “Perch Ceviche with Crispy Rice Cake, Lime Air & Chili Pepper” hors d’oeuvres offering. Joseph Decuis is the first restaurant in Indiana to be invited to serve at New York’s prestigious James Beard House."

Link to the posting about last night's event

Joseph Decuis, First Indiana Restaurant Invited to Serve at New York's Prestigious James Beard House, Selects Bell Perch™

2010-08-23T18:17:00.005-04:00

When guests sit down to dine at New York's prestigious James Beard house tonight, Bell Aquaculture Bell Perch™ will be on the menu in the "Perch Ceviche with Crispy Rice Cake, Lime Air & Chili Pepper" hors d’oeuvres offering. The announcement is made by Norman McCowan, Bell Aquaculture's President & CEO, who says, "We've simply been on cloud nine since Joseph Decuis' Executive Chef Aaron Butts advised we'd be on the menu at their James Beard House event. We just can't contain our Indiana pride."

Butts explains, "We partner with Bell Aquaculture regularly, as one of the Indiana 'Like Minded Farms,' sharing our belief that quality is more important than mass-produced foods, and that family farming is in the blood. Each of our partners believe in natural, drug-free, humane, practices. We’re proud to use these Indiana farm-raised products to bring excellent tasting, healthy food to diner's plates – both at our restaurant and at their homes." Learn more at http://www.josephdecuis.com/farm/like-minded-farms.

As reported in Fort Wayne's The News-Sentinel, "The man who set things in motion for the invitation is John Garr, a resident of Converse [IN] and frequent patron at Joseph Decuis. Garr, who says he loves good food, has been a member of the James Beard Foundation for years and attends events there three to four times a year. On one visit, he told Izabela Wojcik of the foundation about Joseph Decuis. That led to a phone conversation between her and Butts and eventually to the invitation."

Link to the PR Web newswire

Link to a pdf of the full menu

From the Matt Howell Blog: "A visit to Bell Aquaculture"

2010-08-19T10:52:00.001-04:00

"I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Bell Aquaculture recently. They are a client of Fusework Studios (Muncie & Indianapolis). I met with Mark Kelly who proceeded to give me a grand tour of the processing facility outside Redkey, Indiana."

Link to the blog post

Successful Farming Radio Magazine Features Bell Aquaculture

2010-07-18T13:41:00.005-04:00

Successful Farming Radio with Darrell Anderson recently interviewed Bell's CEO Norman McCowan about Bell Aquaculture.

Link to the Successful Farming Radio Affiliate list: http://www.sfmediakit.com/PDFs/RadioMagazine/AffiliateList.pdf

Link to an mp3 of the interview

Bell Aqualculture's Norman McCowan Quoted in WSJ Yellow Perch Article

2010-05-19T18:18:00.005-04:00

From the May 14th edition:

"'Perch were born to be fried,' said Fred P. Binkowski, a senior scientist of fisheries biology with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Great Lakes Water Institute. Mr. Binkowski provides Sweet Water and similar operations with technical assistance and baby perch that he breeds under research agreements with the companies.

One company he works with is Bell Aquaculture LLC, an indoor fish farm built in a former farm field near Muncie, Ind.

Bell has invested some $50 million and has been raising perch for three years. It sells about two million fish a year to restaurants and food distributors, said Norman McCowan, president and chief executive. The closely held company expects to turn its first profit next year and eventually produce six million perch annually."

Link to the article

Perch producer to sell direct to consumers

2010-05-19T18:00:00.004-04:00

From the March/April issue of Aquaculture North America:

"Indiana's Bell Aquaculture fish-farming company, the United States' largest yellow perch farm, has started selling product directly to consumers.

Until now, the Redkey-based fish producer and processor has been supplying primarily to restaurants. However, it recently announced that it will be selling directly to consumers in order increments of five and 20 lbs.

In February, the company also rolled out its breaded yellow-perch line along with launching its Bell Perch Online Ordering System, announced by president and CEO Norman McCowan."

Clipping pdf

Bell Perch Breaded Line & Online Ordering System Featured in March Fish Farming International

2010-03-30T11:22:00.005-04:00

"Indiana-based Bell Aquaculture is looking to become a player in the U.S. retail segment with the introduction of a new line of breaded yellow perch entrees.

The company is going to begin selling product online, as well, Norman McCowan, president and CEO, said in February.

For the past year, the farm has been building out, he said Bell's perch (Perca flavescens) has been available through restaurant partners and various public sales and special events."

This issue was distributed at the 2010 Boston Seafood Show.

Link to the IntraFish/Fish Farming International Web site

Link to the related Bell Aquaculture PR Web newswire

Taste Magazine Cincinnati Blogspot - Bell Perch™ Yellow Perch: Now Ready For Friday Night Fish Fryin'

2010-03-13T15:15:00.002-05:00

"Bell Aquaculture, owner and operator of the nation’s largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm, is rolling out its breaded yellow perch line and concurrently launching the Bell Perch™ Online Ordering System The announcement is made by Norman McCowan, President & CEO, who says for the past year, as the farm has been building out, Bell Perch has only been available through restaurant partners and various public sales and special events, such as the annual Purdue University Ag Alumni Fish Fry."

Link to the blog post

New Products: Bell Perch Announcement in Seafood Business

2010-03-09T12:59:00.004-05:00

"Frozen breaded yellow perch fillets and Cajun nuggets are now available through an online ordering system from Bell Aquaculture.

Bell’s panko breading balances tangy and mild flavors, and the fillets cook best in canola oil in just under three minutes. The sweet, mild-tasting fish is available year-round. Bell Aquaculture in Albany, Ind., owns and operates one of the nation’s largest yellow perch farms, with corporate headquarters and production facilities nearby in Redkey, northeast of Indianapolis. The fillets and nuggets are available in orders of either 5 or 20 pounds. Non-breaded fillets will be available online in the near future. Contact Bell Aquaculture at (765) 369-2392, or visit www.bellperch.com."

Link to Seafood Business online

2010 St. Mary’s Lenten Fish Fry - Feb 19th - First Friday of Lent

2010-02-18T09:30:00.013-05:00

If you're near the Knights of Columbus Hall in Muncie, IN, this Friday Feb 19th (the first Friday of Lent), make sure to enjoy some delicious Bell Perch™ at the annual St. Mary's Lenten Fish Fry.

The menu includes Bell Perch yellow perch, cole slaw, fries, drinks and desserts. (they will offer mac and cheese for the little guys who don't do fish.) Tickets are $6/adult ($5 in advance), $3/children ages 3-12, kids 2 and under are free. If you have any questions about the St. Mary's event or need tickets, call Shannon Ulrich 765-759-3890

Thank you for all your support!

If you're a Friday Night Fish Fry Fan, come follow us on Twitter at

www.twitter.com/FriNightFishFry.

Check out this video about Bell Aquaculture:

Bell Perch Featured: Culinary Schmooze

2010-02-17T12:10:00.003-05:00

"Yellow perch – the sweet, mild tasting fish that everyone loves, especially at Friday Night Fish Fries – is now officially back in time to kickoff the Lenten season. The rollout of Bell Aquaculture’s breaded yellow perch products and launch of the Bell Perch™ Online Ordering System means ample supplies of yellow perch fillets will now be available year around. Bell Aquaculture owns and operates of the nation’s largest yellow perch farm in Albany, IN, with corporate headquarters and production facilities nearby in Redkey, northeast of Indianapolis."

Link to the Culinary Schmooze article

Indiana Perch Farm Largest of its Kind and Growing

2010-02-10T11:20:00.006-05:00

Coverage today from Andy Eubank on Hoosier Ag Today:

"The nation's largest yellow perch farm is growing. Indiana-based Bell Aquaculture operates Bell Perch and their product is now available through an online ordering system. The perch served the last two years at the Purdue Ag Alumni Fish Fry was primarily available in restaurants in the Great Lakes states.

Company President & CEO, Norman McCowan, says just twelve months into operations in Redkey and Albany there is enough production to go national."

Link to the Hoosier Ag Today web site

Download an mp3 of Andy's interview with Norman McCowan

Link to the PR Web newswire

Yellow Perch Products And Online Ordering Launched

2010-02-09T13:09:00.001-05:00

"Bell Aquaculture, owner and operator of US yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm, is rolling out its breaded yellow perch line and launching the Bell Perch Online Ordering System.

The announcement was made by Norman McCowan, President & CEO, who says for the past year Bell Perch has only been available through restaurant partners and various public sales and special events, such as the Purdue Ag Alumni Fish Fry.

Bell said it will continue to form restaurant partnerships and participate in special events, but now consumers will be able to purchase both breaded yellow perch fillets and Cajun nuggets at http://www.bellperch.com."

Link to the Fish Site

SeafoodSource: Yellow perch producer looks ahead

2010-02-09T10:07:00.004-05:00

"Bell Aquaculture of Redkey, Ind., this week launched an online ordering system for consumers, as it prepares to develop new farmed yellow perch products this year and expand production early next year.

By March, Bell will be harvesting 24,000 pounds of yellow perch monthly for its unbreaded perch fillets, frozen breaded perch fillets and frozen breaded perch Cajun Nuggets."

Link to the article by Christine Blank, SeafoodSource contributing editor

Indianapolis Star: Perch farm pitch to include consumers

2010-02-08T15:10:00.002-05:00

"Redkey, Ind.-based Bell Aquaculture, owner and operator of the nation's largest yellow perch farm, is branching out.

For the past year, as the farm has been building out, Bell Perch has only been available through restaurant partners and various public sales and special events, such as the annual Purdue University Ag Alumni Fish Fry."

Link to the Indy Star

Inside Indiana Business: Indiana Fish Company to Sell Directly to Consumers

2010-02-08T12:38:00.004-05:00

From the InsideINdianaBusiness.com Report this morning:

"A Redkey-based fish processor is expanding its business model. Bell Aquaculture says it will now sell some products directly to consumers. The company has been only supplying restaurants and taking part in special events such as the Purdue University Ag Alumni Fish Fry."

Link to Inside INdiana Business

Bell Perch™ Yellow Perch Now Ready For Friday Night Fish Fryin'

2010-02-07T11:48:00.011-05:00

Yellow perch – the sweet, mild tasting fish everyone loves, especially at Friday Night Fish Fries – is now officially back in time to kickoff the Lenten season. The rollout of Bell Aquaculture’s breaded yellow perch products and launch of the Bell Perch™ Online Ordering System means ample supplies of yellow perch fillets will now be available year around. Bell Aquaculture owns and operates of the nation’s largest yellow perch farm in Albany, IN, with corporate headquarters and production facilities nearby in Redkey, northeast of Indianapolis.

For the past year, as the farm has been building out, Bell Perch has only been available through restaurant partners and various public sales and special events, such as the annual Purdue University Ag Alumni Fish Fry.

Link to online ordering

Link to the PR Web newswire

Feb 6th is getting very close: don't forget the Purdue Ag Fish Fry, again serving Bell Perch

2010-02-03T16:00:00.004-05:00

"At the annual Purdue Ag Fish Fry, savor the taste of Indiana farm-raised yellow perch courtesy of the Indiana Soybean Alliance Aquaculture Program and Bell Aquaculture, the nation's largest yellow perch farm and production facilities, located in Albany, Indiana. Together, we're growing the aquaculture industry in Indiana.

Enjoy this year's featured speakers, Dr. Phil Nelson and Dr. Gebisa Ejeta. Both are Purdue graduates and World Food Prize Laureates, an honor so distinguished it is often referred to as agriculture's Nobel Prize. For more
information or to register for this February 6th public
event at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, contact the Purdue Agricultural Alumni Association at 765-494-8593."

Link to the PR Web newswire about Bell's participation

Michael Miller: Indiana Fish Farmer

2010-02-03T15:57:00.002-05:00

"My wife, Kathryn, and our twin sons Isaac and Hayden, love the country living we now enjoy. Our business partners are our family. My mother, Ann Baldwin, and her husband Brian have been instrumental in the growth of our aquaculture farm. Further back, both sides of my family were Indiana pioneers having arrived in Marion County before 1830 and Jay County by 1834. Both families have a long and varied history in the state. I did not grow up on a farm, but had regular visits to the family farm located in Delaware County."

Read about Bell Aquaculture and Bell Perch at the Indiana Farmers Feed Us site

Bell Aquaculture’s Bell Perch™ Featured for a Second Year At Purdue’s Ag Alumni Fish Fry February 6

2010-01-25T11:31:00.005-05:00

Under sponsorship of the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA), Bell Aquaculture is again providing fish for Purdue University's Agricultural Alumni Fish Fry - Saturday, Feb. 6. The announcement is made by Norman McCowan, Bell Aquaculture President & CEO, who says this is the second consecutive year Indiana raised Bell Perch™ will be on the menu, along with pork, since its reintroduction to the event last year. The luncheon, starting at 11:30 a.m., is in the Toyota Blue Ribbon Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.

Link to the PR Web newswire

Hoosier Ag Today: Indiana grown Bell Perch will be on the menu again this year for the Purdue Ag Alumni Fish Fry in February

2010-01-18T12:30:00.003-05:00

"ISA's Director of Aquaculture, Dr. Steve Hart, tells HAT there was 100% positive reaction to fish on the plates last year. 'Everyone was very excited. In fact they were so excited that this year we are actually doubling the amount of fish. We ran out of perch last year so to make sure that doesn’t happen again we’ve gone ahead and doubled what we’re going to provide to the chef this year.'

Indiana Soybean Alliance is providing the fish from Bell Aquaculture. Their corporate headquarters and processing facilities are in Redkey, Indiana, about five miles from the fish farm production facilities in Albany."

Link to the Hoosier Ag Today site

Bell Perch™ to again be on the menu at the Purdue Ag Fish Fry Feb 6th

2010-01-04T12:09:00.006-05:00

"The 2010 luncheon, scheduled for Feb. 6, begins at 11:30 a.m. in the Toyota Blue Ribbon Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.

Tickets for the Ag Alumni Fish Fry are $20 and must be purchased in advance. Tickets are available by contacting the Purdue Ag Alumni office at 765-494-8593 or by e-mailing agalumni@purdue.edu.

Known as a fish fry by tradition, the menu features both Indiana farm-raised yellow perch (Bell Aquaculture's Bell Perch) and roasted pork loin entrées. The perch is donated by the Indiana Soybean Alliance, while the pork loin is donated by Indiana Packers Corp."

Link to the the Purdue University news release about the 2010 Fish Fry

Link to releases about Bell's involvement in last year's event:

Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels Gives Thumbs Up to Bell Aquaculture's Bell Perch™ at Purdue's Ag Alumni Fish Fry

Fish - Specifically Bell Aquaculture's Bell Perch™ - Is Back On The Menu At Purdue's Ag Alumni Fish Fry

Farmers Feed Us: New Bell Aquaculture Video

2009-12-14T13:21:00.003-05:00

Learn more about Bell Aquaculture at the "Farmers Feed Us" YouTube Channel:

Link to the Farmers Feed Us YouTube Channel

Saturday, Nov 7: Public Sales Event, Redkey

2009-11-02T10:08:00.003-05:00

Date: 11/7/2009
Time: 8 AM - Noon
Location: 9887 West State Road 67 (on hwy 67 just outside Redkey)

Come by Bell Perch at Redkey from 8-noon. Breaded, unbreaded and Cajun Nuggets!

2.5 lb and 5 lb bags of breaded fillets and Cajun Nuggets: $32.50 & $65

6 lb tray of unbreaded fillets: $84

Cash, Check or Charge.

Link to the Bell Perch website

October 7, 2009 - FIS Information & Services: Perch farm may get financing

2009-10-15T17:51:00.003-04:00

"Delaware County commissioners voted unanimously on Monday to establish a 135-acre tax-increment financing (TIF) district at Bell Aquaculture’s perch farm in Albany. The project will create jobs and stimulate the local economy.

Bell's USD 92 million-plan to build additional plants, swell production and create 141 jobs by 2012 depends on the acquisition of the TIF district, said Bell President Norman McCowan. The TIF has not yet been finalised. It will depend on the public hearing and final vote of the Delaware County Redevelopment Commission on 12 November."

Link to the posting

October 6, 2009 - Muncie Star Press: Commissioners in favor of TIF for fish farm

2009-10-15T17:44:00.002-04:00

"Bell Aquaculture cleared a major hurdle Monday in plans to expand its Albany perch farm.
The Delaware County commissioners voted unanimously to establish a 135-acre tax-increment financing district at the farm that would help promote economic development there.
The TIF district is a key component in Bell's $92 million plan to build additional facilities, boost production and create 141 new jobs by 2012, Bell President Norman McCowan said."

Link to the article

Bell Aquaculture Names Mark Leavell Inside Sales Manager

2009-04-13T13:31:00.002-04:00

Mark Leavell has been named Inside Sales Manager for Bell Aquaculture, owner/operator of the nation’s largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm located in Albany, IN. The announcement is made by Michael Miller, President & Chief Operations Officer, who says Leavell will be responsible for all orders, sales and customer relationships for Bell Perch™. He will office at Bell's headquarters in Redkey.

“Mark’s knowledge of the region, particularly the restaurant sales environment, will play a key role in the rollout and growth of the Bell Perch brand,” Miller says. “We’re very excited to welcome Mark to the Bell Aquaculture team.”

Link to the News Release

Bell Aquaculture Names Norman McCowan Vice President of Operations

2009-03-31T00:00:00.002-04:00

Norman McCowan has been named Vice President of Operations for Bell Aquaculture, owner/operator of the nation’s largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm located in Albany, IN. Previously serving as Operations Manager for the company, McCowan brings more than 16 years of production management experience with manufacturing and assembly operations to Bell Aquaculture.

Link to the release posting

Chicago Tribune's Bill Daley Features Bell Aquaculture March 18

2009-03-20T01:14:00.002-04:00

Indiana farm helps answer the world's growing appetite for seafood

Fish farms are the way to meet our growing seafood appetite, say proponents

Meet the yellow perch

Newslink Indiana Television: Bell Aquaculture expects bright future

2009-03-20T00:59:00.004-04:00

"It took just under two years for Bell Aquaculture in Albany to become the nation’s largest grower and producer of yellow perch.

Yellow perch is one of the most popular North American pan fish. The fish raised at Bell, however, are unique because they are raised in a controlled environment. A water recirculation and filtration system keeps the fish in a clean living area and in appropriate temperatures. The fish are also raised on pure well water and fed specially formulated diets. The fish are monitored along every step of their growth process to ensure a high-quality product." Read and view Newslink's TV coverage by Reporter Jessica Miller. . .

Link to the Newslink Indiana website

Bell Aquaculture Featured in the March 2009 Fish Farming International

2009-03-20T00:44:00.004-04:00

"Perch Farmer Finishes Plant...Bell Aquaculature, owner and operator of the USA's largest yellow erch (Perca flavenscnes) farm, has completed build-out of its corporate headquarters and processing facilities in Redkey, Indiana." Read more. . .

Link to the FFI website (subscription required)

Link to the article pdf

Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels Gives Thumbs Up to Bell Aquaculture's Bell Perch™ at Purdue's Ag Alumni Fish Fry

2009-02-18T18:03:00.003-05:00

"Absolutely delicious," said Governor Mitch Daniels in last Saturday's Muncie Star-Press (http://www.thestarpress.com/) about the Bell Perch™ served at the annual Purdue University Agricultural Alumni Fish Fry held Feb. 7 in Indianapolis. Further, according to the Star-Press, Gov. Daniels "told (Purdue) President (France) Cordova ... that now there was no excuse ever to have a fishless fish fry again."

Under sponsorship of the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA), Bell Aquaculture helped bring fish back to the menu at Purdue University's Agricultural Alumni Fish Fry this year. The announcement was made earlier this month by Michael Miller, Bell Aquaculture President & COO, who said fish - specifically Indiana raised Bell Perch™ - was being reintroduced to the event's menu this year, in addition to pork.

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Link to the Muncie Star-Press article

From the Muncie Star-Press: Local fish a hit at Purdue fish fry

2009-02-15T10:05:00.005-05:00

Diners call Delaware County fish fillets 'small, uniform, tasty and tender.'

By SETH SLABAUGH • seths@muncie.gannett.com • February 14, 2009

MUNCIE -- Farm-raised yellow perch from Delaware County were a hit with Gov. Mitch Daniels at the recent Purdue University Agricultural Alumni Fish Fry.

"Absolutely delicious," the governor said. "I told (Purdue) President (France) Cordova ... that now there was no excuse ever to have a fishless fish fry again."

Link to the Muncie Star-Press article

Link to Purdue Ag Fish Fry Coverage on MSNBC Digital

Link to Purdue Ag Fish Fry Coverage on the Channel 13/WTHR.com

From the Muncie Star-Press: Bell hopes to expand market for perch filets

2009-02-15T09:23:00.003-05:00

The ''aquaculture'' company is kicking off production with Purdue's fish fry and with a handful of local restaurants.

By KEITH ROYSDONkroysdon@muncie.gannett.com

MUNCIE -- Bell Aquaculture's ambitious plan to raise and market yellow perch to restaurants throughout this part of the Midwest was due to kick off this weekend as the Albany- and Redkey-based business supplied filets for the Purdue University Agricultural Alumni Fish Fry.

Michael Miller, president and chief operating officer of Bell Aquaculture, said the next step -- supplying perch filets to three Delaware County restaurants -- is only the first of many in the long march to his ultimate goal of selling 8.5 million pounds of fish per year by 2015.

Link to the Muncie Star-Press news article

Fish - Specifically Bell Aquaculture's Bell Perch™ - Is Back On The Menu At Purdue's Ag Alumni Fish Fry Saturday Feb. 7

2009-02-03T12:02:00.001-05:00

Under sponsorship of the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA), Bell Aquaculture is helping bring fish back to the menu at Purdue University's Agricultural Alumni Fish Fry this Saturday, Feb. 7. The announcement is made by Michael Miller, Bell Aquaculture President & COO, who says fish - specifically Indiana raised Bell Perch™ - is being reintroduced to the event's menu this year, in addition to pork, at the 11:30 a.m. luncheon in the Toyota Blue Ribbon Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.

The guest speaker for this year's event is NBC's Andrea Mitchell, who will give guests an inside look at the national political scene from the perspective of a broadcast news veteran.

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From 1/15/09 - Bell Aquaculture Announces Completion of Corporate Headquarters and Processing Facilities in Redkey, IN

2009-02-03T11:26:00.000-05:00

Bell Aquaculture has completed construction of its corporate headquarters and processing facilities in Redkey, Indiana. Darien (Illinois)-based Wight & Company, began work on the 28,000-square-foot Redkey project in July. Bell Aquaculture announced operation of the nation's largest yellow perch farm in March 2008; production facilities are located about five miles from Redkey in Albany, northeast of Indianapolis.

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From 1/6/09 - Bell Aquaculture Launches $15 Million Equity Raise To Scale Technology & Processes For Nation's Largest Yellow Perch Farm

2009-02-03T11:24:00.000-05:00

Indiana-based Bell Aquaculture is launching a focused search to raise $15 million of equity capital to scale the technology and processes for the nation's largest yellow perch farm. SDR Ventures, Inc., Denver-based investment banking firm, is assisting Bell Aquaculture in identifying the appropriate investor and financial partner to advance the company's continued growth through 2015.

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From 12/10/08 - Global Trend of Farmed Fish Consumption Overtaking Wild-Raised Plays Out Domestically With Launch of Bell Aquaculture

2009-02-03T11:22:00.000-05:00

This year for the first time, according to a recent Wall Street Journal/Europe article, humans will eat more farmed fish than wild fish. The WSJ referenced a report now being prepared by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and featured a cod farm in Norway. The same trend is playing out in the U.S./Great Lakes Region for yellow perch, as detailed in Food Engineering magazine, with Bell Aquaculture's launch this year of the nation's largest yellow perch farm. The same holds true for farmed salmon in the UK, according to The Times Online.

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From 7/21/08 - Bell Aquaculture Breaks Ground on Corporate Headquarters and Processing Facilities in Redkey, IN, for Nation's Lgst Yellow Perch Farm

2009-02-03T11:19:00.000-05:00

Bell Aquaculture has broken ground on its corporate headquarters and processing facilities in Redkey, Indiana. Darien (Illinois)-based Wight & Company, began work on Wednesday, July 16, 2008, for the new 27,000 square-foot project in Redkey. Bell Aquaculture announced operation of the nation's largest yellow perch farm in March; production facilities are located in Albany, Indiana, northeast of Indianapolis.

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From 4/25/08 - Bell Aquaculture Featured at FoodSiteOfTheDay.com

2009-02-03T11:17:00.000-05:00

Bell Aquaculture was the April 23 featured website at FoodSiteOfTheDay.com. The company began operation of the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm at production facilities located in Albany, Indiana, northeast of Indianapolis, last month. The Albany facility currently has the production capacity of less than 100,000 pounds of fish per year and ultimately will exceed 9 million pounds per year and employ 70 in Albany at full build-out.

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From 4/17/08 - Aquaculture Expert Bill Manci, Chief Technology Officer for Bell Aquaculture, is Now Profiled at Expert411.com

2009-02-03T11:15:00.000-05:00

Bell Aquaculture Chief Technology Officer Bill Manci is now profiled online at the Expert Information For Journalists website. The company began operation of the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm at production facilities located in Albany, Indiana, northeast of Indianapolis, last month. The Albany facility currently has the production capacity of less than 100,000 pounds of fish per year and ultimately will exceed 9 million pounds per year and employ 70 in Albany at full build-out.

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From 4/10/08 - Bell Aquaculture Featuring The Nation's Largest Yellow Perch Farm Is Now Profiled At PublicRelationsNewsroom.com

2009-02-03T11:13:00.000-05:00

Bell Aquaculture has begun operation of the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm at production facilities located in Albany, Indiana, northeast of Indianapolis. The company is now profiled online at the Public Relations Newsroom. The Albany facility currently has the production capacity of less than 100,000 pounds of fish per year and ultimately will exceed 9 million pounds per year and employ 70 in Albany at full build-out.

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From 3/27/08 - NewsRadio 1340/Elkhart Features Bell Aquaculture President Michael Miller At Company Launch

2009-02-03T11:09:00.001-05:00

Bell Aquaculture has begun operation of the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm at production facilities located in Albany, Indiana, northeast of Indianapolis. Recently Bell President & COO Michael Miller was interviewed by NewsRadio 1340's Gary Sieber, giving Indianans more information about one of the State's newest businesses and insight into its expanding aquaculture industry.

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From 3/10/08 - Indiana-Based Bell Aquaculture Announces Company Launch, Featuring the Nation's Largest Yellow Perch Farm

2009-02-03T11:02:00.000-05:00

Bell Aquaculture has begun operation of the nation's largest yellow perch (Perca flavescens) farm at production facilities located in Albany, Indiana, northeast of Indianapolis, with an initial capacity of less than 100,000 pounds of fish per year and ultimately exceeding 9 million pounds per year. Yellow perch is one of the most popular of all North American pan fish. It has a mild, sweet flavor with firm white flesh and low fat levels, making it a favorite in residential and commercial kitchens alike.

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