In furtherance of the May 2020 Executive Order on Promoting American Seafood Competitiveness and Economic Growth, NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service today announced the selection of Southern California and the Gulf of Mexico as the first regions that will host Aquaculture Opportunity Areas. Under the Order, the Commerce Secretary is tasked with identifying a total of 10 such areas by 2025.
NMFS said that the initial regions were chosen “based on the already available spatial analysis data and current industry interest in developing sustainable aquaculture operations in the region,” and called the areas and an expanded aquaculture sector “critical for the economic and environmental resiliency of our coastal communities, and national food security.”
The agency also clarified that while regions have been selected, exact locations will be determined based on best available science and that stakeholder input is “essential” for ensuring siting “in the best locations for aquaculture and to avoid conflicts with other industries or environmental harm.” In so doing, NOAA pledged to work with federal and state entities, tribes, and interested stakeholders to determine the appropriate size of the areas, including through outreach, requests for information, and listening sessions.
NMFS Assistant Admin. Chris Oliver called the announcement “a big step forward,” adding that the areas “will foster the U.S. aquaculture industry as a needed complement to our wild capture fisheries” and “creates opportunities for aquaculture farmers and maintains our commitment to environmental stewardship.”
