Offshore Aquaculture in the United States: Opportunities and Challenges

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is focused on creating domestic seafood supply to meet the growing demand for all seafood products. Currently, over 70% of the seafood Americans consume is imported, and at least 40% of those imports are farmed seafood. Domestic aquaculture can be an effective option to reduce dependence on seafood imports, provide jobs for economically depressed coastal communities, and increase regional food supply and security. As it develops, offshore aquaculture will be one component of the broader NOAA Aquaculture Program, which currently addresses coastal and onshore marine shellfish and finfish farming. NOAA’s Aquaculture Program also includes stock enhancement research and hatchery activities that support commercial and recreational fishing, endangered species restoration, and habitat restoration.