Dr. Steven Summerfelt is the Chief Science Officer at Superior Fresh. He manages scientific research, leads the technological designs during facility expansion, trains the team on technology, and develops standard operating practices. Superior Fresh is the first land-based Atlantic salmon producer in the USA. Superior Fresh has zero wastewater discharge from production and processing systems while repurposing wastes for human food, animal food/bedding, and rebuilding soil with multiple regenerative agriculture practices. The production methods are environmentally friendly, keep our water safe, and give back to the land. And they provide ocean relief.
Steve loves physical outdoor activities and he eats seafood nearly every day. He often tells others the old mantra: “You are what you eat, so only eat the best for your health.” He has also conducted and published refereed research that found that carnivorous fish species – such as rainbow trout, Atlantic salmon, and walleye – do not require fishmeal in their diet to thrive. His more recent but unpublished research at Superior Fresh found that feeding Atlantic salmon high levels of omega-3 fatty acids helps ensure their health. It also provides the salmon with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the fillets, which benefits consumers.
Previously, Dr. Summerfelt was with the Conservation Fund Freshwater Institute for 26 years where he directed aquaculture research. Steve has pioneered technologies for land-based salmon farming, designing facilities, and publishing over 100 refereed journal papers on these and related areas.
Steve is a professional engineer with a Ph.D. in civil engineering (environmental emphasis) and M.S. and B.S. in chemical engineering.