Fisheries in a Landlocked Region
When people think of fishery companies, they usually picture coastal ports and fishing fleets. Utah has its own fisheries economy. The Great Salt Lake supports one of the world's most important brine shrimp harvests, which supplies feed to aquaculture farms around the globe. State fish hatcheries raise millions of trout each year for Utah's lakes and rivers, and a network of seafood distributors brings fresh and frozen fish to restaurants and grocery stores across the Salt Lake Valley.
West Valley City is centrally located near major distribution routes and only a short drive from the Great Salt Lake, so it benefits directly from this industry. Below are ten of the most important fishery companies and organizations serving residents and businesses in the area.
1. Great Salt Lake Brine Shrimp Cooperative
The Great Salt Lake Brine Shrimp Cooperative is one of the main harvesters and processors of brine shrimp cysts from the Great Salt Lake. These tiny cysts are a critical first food for shrimp and fish larvae at aquaculture farms worldwide. The cooperative's work connects Utah to the global seafood supply chain and supports many local jobs.
2. INVE Aquaculture
INVE Aquaculture is a global aquaculture nutrition and health company with operations in northern Utah. It processes Great Salt Lake brine shrimp cysts into high-quality feeds and hatchery products. Its research and technology help fish and shrimp farmers improve survival rates and productivity.
3. Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Hatchery Program
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources operates a network of fish hatcheries around the state. They raise rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee salmon and other species to stock reservoirs, lakes and streams. These hatcheries support Utah's recreational fishing industry, which brings significant tourism revenue and outdoor enjoyment to West Valley City residents.
4. Riverence
Riverence is a leading trout and steelhead producer based in the Snake River region of Idaho. It raises fish in clean spring water and supplies restaurants and retailers across the Intermountain West. Many Salt Lake Valley grocers and chefs choose Riverence for its sustainable farming practices and consistent quality.
5. Sysco Intermountain
Sysco Intermountain is the regional division of the largest foodservice distributor in North America. It delivers fresh and frozen seafood, including salmon, cod, shrimp and specialty fish, to restaurants, hospitals and schools throughout the West Valley City area. Its cold chain logistics keep seafood fresh from source to kitchen.
6. US Foods
US Foods is another major foodservice distributor serving the Salt Lake Valley. Its seafood program offers sustainably sourced options with clear traceability. Restaurants in West Valley City use US Foods for a steady supply of fish, shellfish and value-added seafood products.
7. Pacific Seafood
Pacific Seafood is a family-owned, vertically integrated seafood company based in the Pacific Northwest. It harvests, processes and distributes seafood across the Western United States. Utah restaurants and retailers benefit from its fresh Pacific fish, oysters and Dungeness crab, delivered through its regional distribution network.
8. Trident Seafoods
Trident Seafoods is one of the largest seafood harvesters and processors in North America, specializing in wild Alaska pollock, salmon and crab. Its products appear in grocery freezers and on restaurant menus across West Valley City. Trident is known for its commitment to sustainable wild fisheries.
9. Harmons Grocery
Harmons is a beloved Utah-based grocery chain with full-service seafood counters staffed by knowledgeable fishmongers. It sources fresh fish from trusted suppliers and offers custom cuts, cooking advice and prepared seafood dishes. For West Valley City residents, Harmons is one of the best places to buy high-quality fish locally.
10. Costco Wholesale
Costco's warehouses in the Salt Lake Valley sell large quantities of fresh and frozen seafood, including wild salmon, shrimp and crab legs. Its strict sourcing standards and competitive pricing make it a popular choice for families and small food businesses that buy seafood in bulk.
The Global Importance of Great Salt Lake Brine Shrimp
Few residents realize that the Great Salt Lake plays a major role in feeding the world. Brine shrimp cysts harvested from the lake are shipped to shrimp and fish farms across Asia, Latin America and beyond. This makes Utah a key link in global aquaculture. Protecting the lake's water levels and salinity is therefore important not only for local ecosystems but also for international food security.
Sustainability and Water Challenges
Falling water levels in the Great Salt Lake have raised concerns about the future of the brine shrimp industry and the millions of migratory birds that depend on the lake. State leaders, conservation groups and industry partners are working on water conservation measures to restore lake levels. In aquaculture and seafood distribution, buyers are also paying more attention to sustainability certifications, traceability and responsible sourcing.
Tips for Buying Quality Seafood in West Valley City
When buying seafood, look for firm flesh, a clean ocean smell and clear eyes on whole fish. Ask fishmongers about origin and harvest methods, and look for recognized sustainability labels. Frozen-at-sea products often match or beat the quality of fresh fish in a landlocked state, since they are preserved at peak freshness.
Final Thoughts
West Valley City's connection to fisheries reaches from the shores of the Great Salt Lake to hatcheries, distributors and grocery seafood counters. These companies and organizations bring quality fish to local tables and link Utah to the global aquaculture industry. Supporting sustainable practices will help this unique part of the local economy thrive for generations.