Our Team
Max Burtis
Co-Owner
Max helped found the farm in his senior year of high school after growing up digging clams and spending most of his time in and around the water. Heading the innovation and design aspects of the farm, Max is always looking to improve the automation and sustainability of the farm. He designed and modeled our oyster tumbler using SolidWorks, which increases culling productivity and gives the oysters a deeper cup. In his free time, Max can be seen digging clams, hiking in the Maine woods, and attending aquaculture conventions.
Chris Burtis
Co-Owner
Chris grew up on the ocean and has a broad knowledge of boats, rigging, and nautical activities. He cofounded the farm in 2018 and has been a part of its growth ever since. Chris manages the daily farm operations, oversees staff, and utilizes his woodworking skills to build all of the farm equipment. He is a familiar face at shucking gigs and loves representing Ferda. In his free time, Chris likes to tell wild sea stories, spend time with his lovely wife Matija, and compare Wordle attempts with whoever is around. In addition to his role as co-owner and farm manager, Chris is in charge of keeping the hype going.
Matt Czuchra
Farm Manager in training
Matt grew up in Lincolnville Maine, and has loved being on and around the water since he was young. Matt went to Dalhousie University and pursued a degree in oceanography. Since then he has worked on a scallop farm in Penobscot bay for 2 years and found a passion for the aquaculture industry. In his off time he enjoys surfing, fishing, and spending time on the water.
Bosun Burtis
Farm Dog, product quality assurance
Bosun is a veteran on the water. With some of the best sea legs on the ocean and a work ethic like no other, the only thing stopping him from flipping cages or tying knots is his lack of thumbs. Bosun is where the fun starts and where the pride of the farm stays.