August 21, 2020

Two regions chosen for potential Aquaculture Opportunity Areas in US

US federal waters off the coast of Southern California and in the Gulf of Mexico will be the first two regions studied for future Aquaculture Opportunity Areas in the United States, according to NOAA Fisheries.

The areas were selected for initial assessment following on an executive order by US President Donald Trump. The order was issued with the goal of boosting the country's aquaculture production. One part of it stipulated the identification of "at least two" geographic areas within federal waters that would be suitable for commercial aquaculture within a year of the order.

Those opportunity areas, according to the order, should be areas suitable for commercial aquaculture. Within two years of identifying each area, relevant agencies are tasked with completing environmental impact statements for the areas. The eventual goal is the establishment of 10 Aquaculture Opportunity Areas nationwide by 2025.

The first two areas to be named, according to NOAA Fisheries, were chosen due to the availability of spatial analysis data and current industry interest in the regions.

Assistant Administrator for NOAA Fisheries Chris Oliver said that creating Aquaculture Opportunity Areas "will foster the US aquaculture industry as a needed complement to our wild capture fisheries."

Oliver added: "This type of proactive work creates opportunities for aquaculture farmers and maintains our commitment to environmental stewardship."

The areas, per the order, should be able to support a variety of aquaculture operations such as finfish, shellfish and seaweed farms. With the two areas selected, a "combination of scientific analysis and public engagement" will be used to determine the best spaces within the areas.

"While NOAA has selected the regions for these first Aquaculture Opportunity Areas, the exact locations will be identified based on best-available science, including data-driven siting analyses using hundreds of data layers of ocean conditions and uses," Acting Assistant Administrator for the National Ocean Service Nicole LeBoeuf said. "Stakeholder input is also essential to ensure the Aquaculture Opportunity Areas are sited in the best locations for aquaculture and to avoid conflicts with other industries or environmental harm."

The size of each area is not predetermined, and will be established through a public process involving stakeholders.

NOAA also said that it plans to have public input be part of the initial establishment of the Aquaculture Opportunity Areas.

- Seafood Source