Oregon Sea Grant’s (OSG) current focus on aquaculture reflects a growing recognition within the U.S. Pacific region that there is significant opportunity for expansion of the aquaculture industry, in a manner that complements other coastal and marine enterprises and supports local communities. In the last several years, OSG has made significant progress in assessing the needs of current growers, opportunities for industry development, and barriers to further growth. Commonly cited barriers include challenges with permits and policies, an uncertain regulatory framework for novel species, limited leasing space within Oregon estuaries, a lack of workforce, and potential climate/ecological limitations. OSG has partnered with regional Sea Grant programs, non-governmental organizations, research groups, and agencies to help address these issues.
Currently, OSG is working closely with local and regional partners to assess policy and permitting barriers and identify new regulatory pathways. Through this Mariculture Collaborative, OSG has been able to engage with a larger community of practice, and support pilot projects advancing new-to-Oregon aquaculture species, production methods, and products – with an emphasis on native shellfish and seaweeds. OSG is also an active partner in the development of an Oregon Aquaculture State Strategic Plan, which is working to identify ways to support both marine and freshwater aquaculture throughout the state. Over the next year, in close coordination with other West Coast and Pacific Sea Grant programs, OSG will increase its focus on strengthening aquaculture literacy and social license.
During this presentation, we will highlight both the successes and challenges faced by Oregon Sea Grant and Oregon’s aquaculture industry, and our current and future goals for supporting aquaculture across various species and sectors.