Aquaculture America 2021

August 11 - 14, 2021

San Antonio, Texas

RESEARCH VERIFICATION IS EFFECTIVE AS A TOOL FOR EXTENSION PROGRAMS IN AQUACULTURE

Luke A. Roy, Anita M. Kelly, Terrill R. Hanson, Larry Dorman, Matthew A. Recsetar, and Herbert E. Quintero
School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, & Aquatic Sciences
Auburn University
royluke@auburn.edu
 

Research verification programs have been used by Extension professionals to evaluate the effectiveness of research-based management recommendations in a number of different aquaculture species. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff pioneered research verification in aquaculture in 1993 with channel catfish and later developed a baitfish research verification program. Extension professionals in Alabama (Alabama Cooperative Extension System) have carried out a number of research verification programs using traditional single batch and multiple batch production systems for channel catfish as well as a program that targeted farmers using new alternative production technology (intensively aerated ponds).  In addition to providing a platform on which to examine current best management practices and Extension recommendations from Land Grant Universities, research verification is valuable in identifying gaps for which further research is needed. Perhaps the best benefit of research verification programs are the comradery and relationships developed between cooperating commercial producers and Extension personnel that can lay the ground work to facilitate future collaborative efforts related to technology transfer in the aquaculture industry. Several aquaculture research verification program case studies in Alabama and Arkansas will be summarized and discussed in the context of the value to commercial producers and Extension programs at state Land Grant universities.