CBS This Morning Saturday explored the impact of the coronavirus on Connecticut oyster farming, as well as the history of the industry, in a segment broadcast on April 25.
Aquaculture
Seafood industry launches health-focused campaign
A newly-formed coalition of U.S. seafood industry organizations is launching a 12-week consumer marketing campaign to encourage Americans to eat more seafood during the coronavirus crisis.
Free webinar offered about Paycheck Protection Program
Attention aquaculture industry members: there is a free webinar at 2 p.m. April 6 about the U.S. Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program.
Website offers consumers a direct connection to seafood
Connecticut aquaculture farmers offering direct sales of fresh shellfish and other products to consumers can now be found easily on a newly created aquaculture sales website.
Response launched for severely impacted aquaculture sector
Sales revenue for Connecticut aquaculture producers fell an average of 93 percent in February and March compared to the same period in 2019, and 70 percent of the workforce employed in shellfish, seaweed and finfish farming operations have been laid off due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
More aquaculture producers urged to respond to survey
While nearly half of Connecticut aquaculture businesses have already completed a survey released on March 23, Connecticut Sea Grant and the state Department of Agriculture on March 24 urged those who had not yet responded to do so as soon as possible.
Aquaculture bureau adjusts operations during virus outbreak
The Bureau of Aquaculture issued the following notice about its status during the evolving COVID-19 virus situation.
Notice to CT aquaculture businesses about disaster loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus.
Symposium looks to shape bright future for seaweed farming
Create a trade association to spearhead marketing. Develop solutions and strategies to extend the shelf life of seaweed. Recognize that seaweed isn’t like other seafood — it’s competing for space on the dinner plate with vegetables, Ideas like these were in abundance at the National Seaweed Symposium.
1st food safety guide for seaweed may help product advance
Connecticut-grown kelp is a little like an unopened packet of summer squash seeds left on a shelf after planting season has passed. While its potential to become a mainstay of restaurant and home-cooked meals has been promoted in recent years by growers, the media, and others, the reality hasn’t caught up. But a newly published guide could help change that.