Peter Harvey is an aquaculture research worker employed by the University of Maine at the Franklin facility, where he holds the position of systems manager. With a background in both engineering and marine aquaculture, Peter plays a crucial role in the facility, overseeing the maintenance, design, and expansion of various systems. He takes pride in his work, describing it as a combination of problem-solving and experimentation, where he gets paid to explore and test new ideas. The Franklin facility, known as an industry incubator, aims to enhance employment opportunities in the state of Maine through agricultural practices.

Scope and Content Note
Peter Harvey, an aquaculture research worker, discusses his role as a systems manager at the University of Maine's Franklin facility. The facility serves as an industry incubator, focusing on enhancing employment in the state through agricultural means. Harvey highlights the facility's achievements in spawning halibut and cod for the first time on American soil. He also mentions ongoing expansion projects, including the construction of a pump house, a fish hatchery, and plans for a sea urchin hatchery to revitalize the sea urchin fishery that has been devastated in the area. Harvey explains his background as a biologist and engineer, which enables him to handle various systems on-site, from fish baiting systems to computer systems. He emphasizes the importance of recirculation in aquaculture, which allows for water conservation, waste management, and environmental control. He also mentions the need for public understanding and support of aquaculture as a means to secure future food sources and reduce overfishing. Harvey discusses the challenges faced by the aquaculture industry, such as competition from imported salmon and the development of sustainable feed sources. He concludes by expressing the complexity of aquaculture and the numerous aspects that the general public may not be aware of. Overall, the interview provides insights into the work conducted at the Franklin facility, the significance of aquaculture in Maine, and the potential benefits and challenges of the industry.