$9.3m for US aquaculture research
THE body which oversees fishery regulation in the United States is releasing $9.3 million in federal funds for research projects to help develop the country’s aquaculture industry.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says the money will be spent on 32 separate research schemes in both coastal and at sea fish farming.
A recent NOAA report suggested that both fish farming and conventional fishing in the US was in the slow lane.
Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said: ‘This country, with its abundant coastline, should not have to import billions of pounds of seafood each year.
‘These grants will promote aquaculture projects that will help us reduce our trade deficit in this key industry.’
The funds were awarded through two competitions to help spur the development and growth of shellfish, finfish, and seaweed aquaculture businesses.
The projects, all public-private partnerships, include basic and applied research to improve efficient production, permitting of new businesses, management of environmental health issues, and economic success.
NOAA revealed it had received 126 proposals requesting nearly $58 million in federal funds.