Aquaculture America 2024

February 18 - 21, 2024

San Antonio, Texas

MEASURES OF MATTER FOR MARINE LIFE - ARCHITECTURE SUPPORTING AQUACULTURE RESEARCH LABORATORIES, AQUACULTURE TANK FARMS, AQUARIUM ROOMS

Donna M. Phaneuf, FAIA and Scott A. Campbell, AIA, LEED ap BD+C

VIA design architects, pc 319 E. Plume St., Norfolk, VA 23510

 dphaneuf@viadesignarchitects.com + scampbell@viadesignarchitects.com



Coastal  marine laboratories or aquaculture production grow out facilities housing marine life require special architecture and infrastructure considerations for success. A balance between the scientists’/growers’ goals and the planning professional’s expertise  will build alignment with the environmental conditions  of unpredictable coastline seawater dynamics .  Environmental effects of materiality c orrosion, high-wave surges, heavy rain flooding, and high-wind damage from storm events are just a few of the sustainability  consideration challenges . It is here that vulnerability aligns with the resi lience related investments and the broader vision to ensure long-term viability. 

 Enduring Building  Design and Construction Measures of Matter provide 

 stable marine life health

 predictable fresh seawater quality + quantity

 long lasting sustainable corrosion resistance materiality

 alignment with  coastal  conditions and  the natural environment

These buildings all offer unique and innovative  design and construction approaches to:

 Mitigation of  weather disruptions by way of flood proofing strategies  and types of construction

Dimensional  open floor areas for moving large gear in/out of wide doors with heavy equipment

Accessible  systems for routine maintenance and removal of fouling with cleanouts at 10’-12’

PVC high pressure 150  psi  seawater supply  piping with  multi-headed  quick disconnects

Redundant  seawater  supply and discharge  for cleaning  while actively supporting marine life

Drains  to collect and move spent seawater by way of trench or area drains

Discharge direct to water source with proper permits, filtering, and chemical treatment

Water Quality t esting at fresh seawater source and  at  point of delivery to holding tanks

 Water Quantity alignment with  marine life  holding tank sizing and the delivery system as well as alignment with recirculating systems and  water holding tank sizes planned for weekly purging

Corrosion  resistant re-circulating seawater supply and discharge system s; and building materiality

Temperature alignment of seawater source and tank w ith water piping and thermometers

Oxygen ozone generators and polishers,  tank air pumps, and skimmers  to  control oxygen content

Condensation  barriers for all surfaces and for sea water piping and tanks

 Turbidity Control at point of intake to avoid prop wash in navigable waters and seek proper depth

Water Pressure control  to allow  survival of small nutrients

Overhead sub -structure to carry power reels, air system, and water supply

Filtration to reduce fouling  while  allowing s ea c reature f ood sources to sift through and in

Power generators for  uninterrupted animal life quality during weather disaster events

Building Climate control systems easy to repair + re-place or with automated controls

 Emergency alarm systems for seawater systems failure notification