Four aquaculture projects have gained approval for funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Farming Fund (SFF).

The aquaculture sector was invited to put forward SFF proposals for the first time, following the creation of a merged Ministry.

Kathy Mansell, MPI Director of Growth and Innovation, said the portfolio of approved projects provides a balance of funding across the primary sectors, regions of New Zealand and types of activities (such as development, extension, feasibility studies and capability building).

“The SFF is typically between three and four times oversubscribed, and this round was no exception.

“Competition is tough and the approved projects are very deserving of MPI’s support. We look forward to seeing the outcomes of their work,” she said.

The approved aquaculture projects are:

Blue Mussel Over-Settlement Project (Marine Farming Association Inc) – SFF grant funding $282,000;

Oyster Industry Modernisation Project (Aquaculture New Zealand and New Zealand Oyster Industry Association) – SFF grant funding $407,000;

Environmental Certification for New Zealand Aquaculture (Aquaculture New Zealand) – SFF grant funding $510,000;

Kaitaia Spat Working Group Project (Marine Farming Association Inc) – SFF grant funding $25,000.