Our Research Question:​

What is the current scene and challenge of coastal Maine aquaculture systems in the face of climate change? How can we influence and guide riparian landowners to support aquaculture initiatives in Maine?

​Maine Aquaculture 101:

  • Oyster's are filter feeders and a single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water in one day
  • Oyster's are native to Maine and are key to the marine ecosystem
  • Aquaculture can maintain and sustain livelihoods for generations to come, and support a changing ocean economy and environment
  • Oyster aquaculture can be an economically viable career fronted by young experts and professionals

How Much Space Does Aquaculture Really Take Up in the Gulf of Maine?

Picture
According to the Department of Marine Resources in Maine, the sum of all aquaculture farms (including oysters, other shellfish, kelp, and more) is the total size of 1342.28 football fields.  While this may seem like a lot at first, according to the USGS, Maine has 591 square miles of coast, or 378,240 acres.  This means that there is 286,545 football fields of coast!  When compared, all of aquaculture (including oyster farming and more) is only 0.466% of the coastal Gulf of Maine. This is a very small proportion of area despite major environmental, social, and cultural benefits.

Get Involved With Aquaculture: Check Out These Resources

There are so many amazing resources for people who want to get involved with aquaculture in Maine! Check them out below

​View Gallery 📷

The Food 🍜

Us 💗