Celebrating 45 Years of Innovative Excellence
On a day when the nation comes together to honor seafood lovers everywhere, Riverdale Mills takes the spotlight by celebrating an impressive 45-year journey of innovation in the lobster industry. Riverdale Mills has transformed marine gear production with its flagship product, Aquamesh®, which is now synonymous with the construction of lobster traps throughout North America.
The Vision Behind Aquamesh®
Back in the 1970s, Jim Knott, Sr., a part-time commercial lobsterman, and his son, Jim Knott, Jr., seized the opportunity to revolutionize lobster trapping. They identified issues with traditional wooden traps, which were cumbersome, susceptible to deterioration, and risky in turbulent waters. Driven by a passion for improvement, they set out to create Aquamesh®, a marine-grade welded wire mesh that has become a game-changer for lobstermen.
What Makes Aquamesh® Special?
Aquamesh® traps are designed to withstand the harshest marine conditions, proving to be lighter, safer, and longer-lasting than their wooden counterparts. Lobstermen across the coastline embraced this innovation, and their feedback showcased its effectiveness in enhancing efficiency and safety within the lobster fishing industry.
Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Over the decades, Riverdale Mills has consistently manufactured its wire mesh products at its Massachusetts facility, proudly using thousands of tons of steel each year. Despite challenges like rising tariffs and competition on a global scale, Riverdale has maintained a strong commitment to American manufacturing, quality, and sustainability.
Global Presence and Environmental Stewardship
Today, Riverdale Mills exports around 40 percent of its wire mesh products worldwide and offers a diverse catalog with over 3,500 different mesh configurations. The company also prioritizes sustainability by recycling nearly all steel byproducts and utilizing hydroelectric power to minimize its carbon footprint. This proactive approach reflects its dedication to environmental responsibility.
Looking Towards the Future
As Riverdale Mills celebrates this significant milestone, the company’s vision remains focused on supporting the American manufacturing sector while empowering the global fishing community. By providing innovative welded wire mesh solutions, Riverdale aims to enhance safety for fishermen and contribute to the economies of coastal communities.
About Riverdale Mills
Founded in 1980, Riverdale Mills Corporation stands as a global leader in welded wire mesh solutions. The company is recognized for its industry-standard Aquamesh® used in lobster traps, alongside other innovative products like WireWall®, which serves as a high-security fencing solution. Headquartered in Massachusetts, Riverdale exports its high-quality products to over 60 countries, with a notable 40 percent of its sales directed towards international markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Aquamesh®?
Aquamesh® is a marine-grade welded wire mesh product developed by Riverdale Mills, designed specifically for building lobster traps.
2. How long has Riverdale Mills been in operation?
Riverdale Mills has been operational for 45 years, since its founding in 1980.
3. Where is Riverdale Mills located?
The headquarters of Riverdale Mills is in Northbridge, Massachusetts.
4. What percentage of Riverdale's products are exported?
Currently, about 40 percent of Riverdale Mills' products are exported to international markets.
5. How does Riverdale Mills ensure sustainable practices?
Riverdale Mills focuses on recycling nearly all steel byproducts and using renewable energy sources in its production processes.
