NOAA Fisheries has provided US$1.5m to support aquaculture pilot projects through the US’ Interstate Marine Fisheries Commissions.
The Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commissions will be managing the grants, with each making US$450,000 available to expand seafood farming operations and production to offset the $14bn seafood trade deficit in the US.
Through these pilot projects, emphasis is being placed on promising but less commercially developed technologies for finfish, shellfish, seaweed, and other relative newcomers to the domestic aquaculture industry.
Emphasis is also being placed on the development and deployment of economically and environmentally sustainable aquatic farming techniques and business practices.
The deadline for proposals is 1 February 2018. Information on eligibility and specific application requirements for each region can be found on the Commission websites.
The funding provision is part of NOAA Fisheries’ efforts to foster responsible aquaculture and seafood security in the US.
