Sunday, October 30, 2011

Mussel Ranch in Nova Scotia

These look like Christmas ornaments, but they are buoys used by mussel ranchers to catch mussels. While driving in Nova Scotia a couple of weeks ago I stopped on the side of the road when we saw this Mussel Ranch, as I thought there might be some photo opportunities.
This is a view of the AquaPrime Mussel Ranch in Ship Harbour, Nova Scotia. It occupies a lovely cove on the drive north from Halifax.
Here is a bin of mussels. It is harder to raise and process mussels than clams, and they bring a lower price. You have to admire the hard work of the people who bring us our food. I picked up a brochure from the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture with recipes for preparing mussels in dishes that can be steamed, fried, baked, microwaved, or made into a chowder.
This is an old shovel that they used for shoveling mussels. They have painted it to slow down the rust that has already rusted through. I think they probably thought I was nuts to be taking a photo of their old shovel, but one person's tool is another person's art.
These ropes dangle in the water from the buoys, and the mussels cling to the ropes. The mussel ranchers later raise the buoys and ropes and harvest the mussels.
Here you can see that they have lots of mussel buoys in the yard ready to be returned to the water to catch more mussels. I wish I could paint. There were so many quaint seaside scenes in Nova Scotia that would make excellent subjects for artists. I will show more photos from Nova Scotia in the future, as a few week ago I went to Cape Breton Island with friends to attend the Celtic Music Festival and celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving with their family.

5 comments:

FilipBlog said...

I was woundering what the blue thing were but know I know. Good article.

Greetings,
Filip

Traveling Hawk said...

Wonderful photos! You demonstrate how such common things can do great subjects!

Sharon said...

These are great shots and interesting information. I haven't talked to you since you've been back. We need to get together so I can hear about the trip.

glenda said...

Interesting info as always. Great pictures of a beautiful part of the country.

Tash said...

I love your photos of colors and texture. The blue balls are so gorgeous.
The local blogger bunch would love to plan an photo outing with you and Julie if you have time while in Newport Beach next. Just let me know if you are interested. Also there is a chance to meet up with Mr. Weekend Reflection himself. Wouldn't that be fun.

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