NOAA Fisheries has announced it will provide $1.5 million in funding to support aquaculture pilot projects through the nation\'s Interstate Marine Fisheries Commissions. These competitive grants will be managed through the Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commissions.
Each Commission is making $450,000 available to expand seafood farming operations and production to offset the $14 billion seafood trade deficit in the US. Through these pilot projects, emphasis is being placed on promising but less commercially developed technologies for finfish, shellfish, seaweed, and other relative newcomers to the domestic aquaculture industry. The programs also emphasize the development and deployment of economically and environmentally sustainable aquatic farming techniques and business practices.
The deadline for proposals is February 1, 2018. Information on eligibility and specific application requirements for each region can be found on the following Commission websites.
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission: Marine Aquaculture Pilot Projects
Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission: Marine Aquaculture Pilot Projects
Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission: Marine Aquaculture Pilot Projects
