Sea Grant announces $9.3 million for aquaculture research and industry support

October 31, 2017

NOAA Sea Grant announces the award of $9.3 million in grants for 32 projects to advance the development of a sustainable marine and coastal aquaculture industry in the U.S.

The grants were awarded through two aquaculture funding competitions–Integrated Projects to Increase Aquaculture Production and Addressing Impediments to Aquaculture Opportunities–to help spur the development and growth of shellfish, finfish and seaweed aquaculture businesses. The projects include basic and applied research to improve efficient production of seafood, permitting of new businesses, management of environmental health issues and economic success of aquaculture businesses.

All projects include public-private partnerships and will be led by university-based Sea Grant programs. With each project, every two federal dollars of funding is matched by non-federal funds, bringing the total investment in these research projects to $13.9 million.

Sea Grant’s investment in aquaculture research, outreach and education programs continues to produce results for coastal communities and their economies. Between February 2016 and January 2017, Sea Grant invested $9 million in aquaculture research, technology transfer, and outreach and reported $90 million in economic impacts, including support of 900 businesses and 1,800 jobs.

For a full list and short descriptions of the 32 grant projects, visit the NOAA Sea Grant website http://seagrant.noaa.gov/News/Article/ArtMID/1660/ArticleID/1656/Sea-Grant-awards-2017- aquaculture-grants.

Alternative business and farming models to advance shellfish aquaculture in Hawai`i, Hawai‘i Sea Grant, $149,972

Summary: The overall goal is to conduct research, training and extension activities to develop new opportunities in shellfish farming for Hawai‘i and the U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands. Current obstacles to further expansion of shellfish farming include limited access to growing areas, few land-based systems, and high barriers to entry for individuals and small businesses. This initiative will include testing a land-based oyster “fattening” system and developing the first commercial shellfish farm in nearshore waters in Hawai‘i.

Contact:
Cindy Knapman
(808) 956-7410

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The University of Hawai’i Sea Grant College Program is part of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa’s prestigious School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology. It supports an innovative program of research, education and extension services directed to the improved understanding and stewardship of coastal and marine resources of the state, region and nation. Science serving Hawai‘i and the Pacific since 1968.