Aquaculture Technology Transfer Initiative
The objective of NOAA’s Aquaculture Technology Transfer Initiative is to foster the development of innovative technology for commercial aquaculture in the United States. NOAA will combine its science, R&D, environmental stewardship, and financial assistance capabilities (such as existing grant programs) with investment and participation by private and/or foundation sources to develop sustainable aquaculture projects.
Current research by aquaculture scientists and engineers at the NWFSC Manchester Lab focuses on developing integrated culture systems for the production of important northwest species such as sablefish. (credit: NOAA Aquaculture Office)
The Initiative will be focused on regional projects and activities that showcase innovative, sustainable practices that lead to increased domestic aquaculture production and job creation. Projects supported under the Initiative will
- show a credible potential to create ‘blue green’ jobs;
- include environmental monitoring;
- show economic viability and run at a scale large enough to show economic impact;
- include a transparent web presence and an outreach plan;
- include any type of marine aquaculture (fish, shellfish, algae); and
- reflect the best science available.
NOAA anticipates participation from research institutions and NGO partners, which may share advanced technology, monitor performance indicators, and/or help to develop best practices or market-based standards. The initiative will be implemented with the active involvement of NOAA’s regional offices and science centers, Sea Grant Extension, and other federal, state, local and non-governmental partners.
Background
American expertise and innovation has played a significant role in the development of aquaculture in foreign countries. The DOC and NOAA policies and this Technology Transfer Initiative will promote innovative practices and developments in the U.S. so that American ingenuity can be applied here at home. The domestic aquaculture industry, both freshwater and marine, currently supplies about five percent of the seafood consumed in the U.S. The cultivation of shellfish (such as oysters, clams, and mussels) comprises about two-thirds of U.S. marine aquaculture. Salmon and shrimp aquaculture contribute about 25 percent and 10 percent, respectively. Current production takes place mainly on land, in ponds, and in coastal state waters. Go to our 'Aquaculture in the United States' page for more information.
