Riverdale Mills Celebrates 45 Years of Innovation on Lobster Day

Riverdale Mills Corporation, a leader in welded wire mesh solutions, commemorates its 45th anniversary on National Lobster Day, September 25, 2025. The Massachusetts-based company has transformed the lobster industry with its flagship product, Aquamesh®, which is now utilized in over 60% of lobster traps across North America.

In the early 1970s, Jim Knott, Sr., a part-time commercial lobsterman, recognized the challenges faced by traditional wooden traps. These traps were not only heavy and susceptible to damage but also prone to drifting in the turbulent waters of the North Atlantic. Motivated by the need for improvement, Knott and his son, Jim Knott, Jr., developed Aquamesh®, a marine-grade welded wire mesh designed to endure harsh marine conditions.

The introduction of Aquamesh® revolutionized the lobster trapping process. Its strength, corrosion resistance, and durability made it a preferred choice among lobstermen from Massachusetts to Maine, who embraced the innovative gear. “Riverdale’s roots are in the fishing harbors of Gloucester, MA, and the working waterfronts of Maine,” said Jim Knott, Jr., the current CEO. “Our commitment has always been to the hardworking men and women in the lobster industry. Aquamesh supports sustainable fishing and helps preserve a way of life in coastal communities.”

Commitment to Manufacturing and Sustainability

Riverdale Mills has consistently manufactured its entire line of wire mesh products at its facility in Northbridge, Massachusetts, utilizing thousands of tons of steel every year. Despite facing challenges such as rising steel tariffs and global competition, the company remains dedicated to American manufacturing and sustainability.

Currently, Riverdale exports 40% of its products to international markets and offers more than 3,500 mesh configurations tailored for various industries. The company actively recycles nearly all steel byproducts from its operations, and part of its production is powered by clean hydroelectric energy, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility.

As the company looks to the future, its mission remains focused on supporting American manufacturing, empowering the global fishing community, and delivering innovative solutions that enhance safety and boost economies.

About Riverdale Mills

Founded in 1980, Riverdale Mills Corporation has established itself as a global leader in welded wire mesh solutions. The company produces Aquamesh®, the industry standard for lobster traps, along with WireWall®, a high-security fencing solution, and a wide range of specialized wire mesh products for critical industries worldwide. Headquartered in Northbridge, Massachusetts, Riverdale exports to over 60 countries, with 40% of its products serving international markets. For more information, visit www.riverdale.com.