Aquaculture is the fastest growing food production system in the world and a priority for meeting increased demands for sustainable seafood. However there are significant hurdles, both in terms of permitting and infrastructure, to aquaculture in California; the process is expensive and lengthy. In order for new aquaculture ventures to be realized in the near term, it will require significant collaboration between private entities, as well as cooperation from local governments.

Fort Bragg’s May 2022 Blue Economy Symposium and Learning Festival heard from several aquaculture practitioners, both commercial and restorative in nature – and those that work within both spaces, such as The Cultured Abalone Farm and Hog Island Oyster Co. The Plan includes an assessment to better understand feasibility of commercial and restorative aquaculture within the harbor. This effort will also include a water quality assessment and monitoring program to identify desirable locations. Please sign up for e-notifications or check back in to follow the progress of this study and provide input.