NOAA has established a new US$13.5m cooperative institute to strengthen the US seafood supply through sustainable aquaculture research and technology development.
The University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science has joined The Cooperative Institute Fostering Aquaculture Research and Markets (CIFARM) initiative as a core partner, contributing expertise in aquaculture, ocean science, environmental forecasting and marine ecosystems.
“The Rosenstiel School’s expertise in aquaculture, ocean observing, environmental forecasting, marine ecosystems and coastal resilience will help provide the scientific foundation needed to support responsible growth of U.S. aquaculture,” said Ben Kirtman, dean of the Rosenstiel School.
“Through CIFARM, we look forward to collaborating with partners across the country to develop science-based solutions that strengthen domestic seafood production while supporting healthy ocean ecosystems and coastal communities.”
Science focus
CIFARM, led by the University of New Hampshire, was created following a competitive application process and will focus on advancing sustainability, innovation and resilience across the domestic aquaculture sector.
The five-year programme brings together academic, industry and nonprofit partners to support responsible and cost-effective seafood production in the United States.
It aims to address increasing pressure on the US seafood supply chain, with the United States currently importing more than $24bn in seafood annually, much of it produced through overseas aquaculture operations.
Researchers involved in CIFARM will work on technologies designed to improve aquaculture operations, evaluate offshore farming systems, apply artificial intelligence to production systems and analyse seafood markets.
According to the announcement, CIFARM will support domestic marine aquaculture, strengthen seafood supply chains, enhance food security and improve sustainability across the sector while helping American producers meet growing consumer demand for high-quality seafood.
In addition to research, the institute will also support education, outreach and workforce development initiatives focused on the future growth of US aquaculture.
