Foundations of Shellfish Farming is an in-person training course for new and prospective farmers and those who simply seek to learn more about aquaculture practices and techniques.

Topics that will be covered include: how to establish and operate a shellfish business; leasing and permitting requirements; considerations for gear, vessels, and facilities, shellfish biology, aquaculture techniques and best practices; and risks involved in farming shellfish.

Although the course will concentrate on Long Island Sound waters within the jurisdiction of Connecticut, the topics and practices covered are applicable in the Northeast United States and potentially beyond. 

When: Tuesdays, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., weekly Jan. 20 to April 7, 2026

Location: UConn Avery Point Campus, Groton, CT, Lowell P. Weicker Jr.  Building, Room 312 

Instructors: Michael Gilman and Tessa L. Getchis 

Course Website: https://shellfish.uconn.edu/FSF/

Registration: http://s.uconn.edu/shellfish  

Cost: $300 

Financial aid: Scholarship funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If interested, contact Michael Gilman at: Michael.gilman@uconn.edu. Include your full name, company name (if applicable), and a statement explaining your request for financial aid. If requesting financial aid, please DO NOT register for the class online. We will process registrations internally for all students receiving financial aid. 

Sponsors: Connecticut Sea Grant, UConn Extension and the Connecticut Department of Agriculture

  

*This course meets the Connecticut Department of Agriculture eligibility requirement for the submission of a Joint Agency Application for Marine Aquaculture.  

  

Additional questions, including requests for financial aid, can be emailed to: Michael.gilman@uconn.edu.

Download a pdf of the flier here.

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