With marine aquaculture in Alaska contributing to economic opportunities for coastal communities through the farming of shellfish and seaweed, and to document the continued growth of the industry, NOAA Fisheries has released its first State of Alaska Aquaculture Report.
The project was conducted in partnership with economic development organisations such as the Alaska Mariculture Alliance and Southeast Conference, and government organisations Alaska Sea Grant, Alaska Department of Fish and Game and Alaska Department of Natural Resources.
’State of Alaska Aquaculture’ summarises the current state of the aquaculture industry in Alaska, including how it has changed over the years and where it is developing. It also outlines some of the opportunities for aquaculture farmers, researchers and other stakeholders interested in getting involved in the industry.
The report includes an overview of oyster and seaweed production in the state and a regional breakdown of the industry across Alaska. It also includes perspectives on the current state of the Alaska aquaculture industry written by hatchery operators, farmers and state officials. It contains information about aquaculture in Alaska, funding resources for those interested in getting involved, and information about NOAA’s plans to identify Aquaculture Opportunity Areas in Alaska.
NOAA Fisheries says the report is a first-of-its-kind overview of the aquaculture industry in Alaska, revealing the state’s opportunities and challenges to date. It also highlights the potential for future industry growth in Alaska, and how much work is underway to improve sustainable aquaculture production around the state.
To date, commercial aquaculture activities in Alaska have been relatively small-scale, and have primarily involved Pacific oysters, seaweed and blue mussels.
Finfish farming is illegal in Alaska state waters.
