In response to a Congressional directive, the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) has established a National Cold Water Marine Aquaculture Center (NCWMAC) in Orono and Franklin, Maine.  The new research facility, which has just begun basic operations, will be staffed by ARS scientists and support personnel who will conduct a national research program to address the cold-water marine aquaculture industry’s highest priority research needs and opportunities. ARS research programs will complement those of the University of Maine Aquaculture Research Center in Orono and the University’s Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research (CCAR) in Franklin, Maine, as well as other State, regional, national, and international programs.

It is anticipated that the NCWMAC will ultimately have 14 full-time federally supported scientists and approximately 45 support personnel. Research program areas will initially address: Genetic Improvement, Growth and Development, Health, and Sustainable Production Systems for Atlantic Salmon and later for cold water marine finfish species. As the NCWMAC design and construction moves forward, the specific research programs, target species, and discipline areas of scientists will be refined and updated.

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National Cold Water Marine Aquaculture Center

25 Salmon Farm Road

Franklin, ME 04634

Phone: 207 422 2370

Fax: 207 422 2723

ARS Administrative Office

USDA, ARS

NE Plant Soil and Water Lab

University of Maine

Orono, ME 04469

Phone: 207 581 3298