December 18, 2024
US releases first updated aquaculture plan since 1983
The US has released an updated National Aquaculture Development Plan for the first time since 1983, which aims to strengthen the nation's commitment to food security, climate resilience, and the protection of threatened and endangered marine and freshwater species.
As climate change continues to affect ecosystems and food production, aquaculture is gaining importance as a climate-smart method of producing food. When conducted responsibly, as it is in the US, seafood farming is among the most environmentally sustainable ways to produce healthy food.
Aquaculture not only supports sustainable seafood production but also plays a critical role in restoring wild fish populations. Hatchery-reared fish, including seedstock and fingerlings, are released into the wild to strengthen populations of endangered marine species. Aquaculture efforts have supported more than 70 endangered or threatened species, including Pacific salmon, white abalone, and queen conch. It has also contributed to habitat restoration and efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The National Aquaculture Development Plan was finalised by the Subcommittee on Aquaculture, part of the National Science and Technology Council. The draft version of the plan was released earlier this year for public comment.
The plan comprises four interconnected documents, including three strategic plans. Two of these—The Strategic Plan to Enhance Regulatory Efficiency in Aquaculture and the National Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Research—were completed and published in 2022. The third document, the Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Economic Development, has now been finalised.
Together, these documents provide a comprehensive framework for federal agencies to support aquaculture in advancing public health, nutrition, community resilience, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
The Subcommittee on Aquaculture, which serves as the federal interagency group for coordinating aquaculture-related efforts, plays a central role in implementing the plan. It seeks to enhance the effectiveness of federal research, regulation, technology transfer, and assistance programs related to aquaculture.
The subcommittee's task force on economic development includes representatives from key federal agencies, including the US Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Food and Drug Administration, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
- NOAA Fisheries
