August 1, 2024

University of Maine to set up aquaculture innovation center in Maine, US

The University of Maine in the United States is moving ahead with plans for a new aquaculture workforce and innovation center.

The 14,200 square foot facility will house large fish tanks and classroom spaces, serving as a hub for aquaculture research at the university system's flagship campus in Orono, Maine, the United States.

In a statement, the university said the new facility will boost existing aquaculture research and workforce training programmes.

The Maine Aquaculture Association estimates that the aquaculture industry will need more than 1,300 new workers over the next 15 years.

UMaine received US$7 million in federal funding and an additional US$3.3 million in state funding to support the project.

Construction is expected to begin this fall, and the facility could open by next year or early 2026.

- Maine Public