Haapsalu Bay is the most degraded coastal water body in Estonia. The reason is excessive nutrients in the water.
Now the University of Tartu is launching a new project. They will establish a mussel farm in the bay. The farm will cultivate blue mussels (Mytilus edulis or Mytilus trossulus). These mussels consume nutrients and help purify the water.
The farm must withstand the harsh Baltic Sea environment. There is low salinity, winter ice, and storms. Therefore, the farm will be built robustly. It must withstand large waves.
The farm consists of 20 main lines. Each line is 200 meters long. Each line will have about 1500 cultivation ropes. These are specifically suitable for growing mussels.
In winter, the farm is underwater. This prevents ice damage. The farm will be marked with floating buoys.
The tender winner must construct and install the farm. The seabed must not be disturbed and no chemicals can be used.
ERR has previously reported that Haapsalu Bay's water quality is poor. The reason is excessive nutrients. The University of Tartu is investigating whether the mussel farm can help purify the water.
The Marine Institute is also participating in a climate ministry project. The project will last until 2033. The goal is to improve water quality in Western Estonia.