Two federal grants totaling almost $600,000 will help launch two initiatives considered crucial to the long-term viability of the state’s aquaculture industry. The grants will fund a two-year project to assess aquaculture workforce development needs and a mobile lab to support the seaweed industry.
Fisheries
Concepcion answers questions about her career for national group
Chaya Gaberria of the U.S. Aquaculture Society recently interviewed Anoushka Concepcion, CTSG associate extension education on marine aquaculture, about her career. The interview has been posted on the society’s website.
New video documents habitat services of oyster cages
Researchers at the NEFSC Milford Lab investigate shellfish growers’ reports that aquaculture gear attracts fish. Using GoPro cameras and eDNA analysis, they found that the cages provide critical habitat for a variety of fish at all life stages. A video of the project is now available.
Value of oysters to LIS highlighted in public radio show
The Connecticut Public Radio show “The Wheelhouse,” featured CT Sea Grant’s Tessa Getchis talking about the economic and environmental importance of oysters in Long Island Sound, as well as the shellfish restoration plan and the shell recycling initiative.
Concepcion receives award from World Aquaculture Society
Anoushka Concepcion, CTSG associate extension educator for marine aquaculture, has been chosen for the Industry Impact Award of the World Aquaculture Society for 2022.
Students learn the ins and outs of shellfish farming
In the “Foundations of Shellfish Farming” course offered for the first time this year, 18 students were immersed in plenty of practical, first-hand knowledge about aquaculture.
Commercial fishermen share perspectives on offshore wind
The second of an ongoing series on offshore wind development affecting Connecticut explores the views of commercial fishermen on this fast-emerging industry along the East Coast.
Tempered optimism is message of National Seaweed Symposium
Seaweed isn’t exotic or strange to the native Alaskan community that is his home, said Keolani Booth during his keynote address at the 2023 National Seaweed Symposium in Portland, Maine, setting the stage for the three-day event last month of robust and varied presentations and networking.
Shell recycling initiative being introduced in Connecticut
Empty oyster and clam shells from Long Island Sound shouldn’t be treated like trash. They are vital components of healthy habitat for shellfish and other marine life, and need to be returned to their watery home. That’s the message shell recycling advocates are advancing as part of a new statewide initiative.
Register now for shellfish farming course starting Jan. 24
Foundations of Shellfish Farming is a training course for new and prospective farmers and those who simply seek to learn more about aquaculture practices and techniques. Classes will meet at UConn Avery Point on Tuesday evenings from Jan. 24 to April 11.