Offshore Aquaculture in the United States: Economic Considerations, Implications and Opportunities

摘要

Twenty years ago, offshore aquaculture--fish and shellfish farming in U.S. federal waters--was an emerging technology with tremendous potential. The United States and other countries were at the forefront of an engineering and technology revolution, much like the old race to the moon. Bit by bit, scientists, engineers, and researchers began to figure out the how for this type of aquaculture. They developed dependable cage systems, remote feeders, monitoring systems, and broodstock for species that would thrive in the open ocean environment. Every success fueled more interest. The potential for this type of seafood production was obvious--so were the challenges. Could this type of aquaculture be brought online safely as a way to complement wild harvest. Would it be economically viable. What about license to operate. Today, aquaculture in federal waters is among the most talked-about technologies associated with the future of seafood production in the United States.