Aquaculture

The U.S. aquaculture industry is diverse, and consists of many different methods, locations, and species of finfish and shellfish. Although the bulk of the nation’s industry is represented by freshwater finfish species such as catfish, tilapia, and trout; NOAA’s involvement is limited to marine and estuarine areas where aquaculture occurs. This includes shellfish (oysters, mussels, clams, etc.) and finfish farming in bays and the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). NOAA’s legal authorities with respect to aquaculture lie primarily with the Endangered Species Act, the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act, and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act.

Global and domestic demand for seafood is growing steadily. However, seafood from wild harvest fisheries is not increasing. As the global population continues to rise, and the health benefits of seafood continue to become more widely embraced, it follows that seafood demand will rise as well. NOAA is supportive of a robust, sustainable domestic aquaculture industry that can help to meet the projected increase in consumer demand.

While supportive of a sustainable aquaculture industry, NOAA’s legislative responsibility requires us to address environmental issues associated with aquaculture. These can include water quality, disease, non-indigenous species (NIS), escapement, and habitat impacts. NOAA works closely with the industry, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), state/federal agencies, and the public to address such issues.

NOAA’s Aquaculture Program (http://aquaculture.noaa.gov) serves as the agency’s lead on aquaculture issues, and works closely with the Office of Habitat Conservation and other NOAA line offices to promote sustainable aquaculture practices and research.

What is aquaculture?
Where does marine aquaculture occur?
Why is OHC involved in aquaculture?