Spring is awakening (depending where you are) and a new year of sustainable aquaculture innovation is well underway. I hope you had a restful winter and are energized for a busy spring. As we all begin to step out of our homes, NOAA is thinking of reintegration into our offices, and travel is starting to become a reality for many, after two long years. I want to begin by giving thanks to our incredible NOAA Aquaculture team for the work they have accomplished while fully remote. I am in awe of the resilience our team has shown, and look forward to seeing them in person soon!
One familiar face to many, Cindy Sandoval has recently started a position with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as the next chapter in her career of public service. Over the past six years, Cindy has been invaluable to our communications and outreach efforts. She served as a national point of contact for sustainable aquaculture, was a true team leader, and even won an Emmy for her work on the oyster-focused educational video, ‘No Shell Left Behind.’ We know that Cindy will excel in her new role, and look forward to keeping in touch.
As you may have heard, this winter NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal and Ocean Science (NCCOS) released two Atlases identifying options in the Gulf of Mexico and Southern California to use as a foundation for deeper evaluation as we designate Aquaculture Opportunity Areas (AOAs). The Atlases are compiled from the most scientific and geospatial research to date and take into consideration relevant environmental, economic, and social factors. This is a big forward step in identifying sites that can support sustainable aquaculture and is the product of robust engagement with ocean users.
As we continue the AOA identification process, NOAA leadership continues to engage in and strongly support sustainable aquaculture development. As Janet Coit highlighted previously, “We are working to create an era of opportunity for domestic aquaculture” and it will take all of us to achieve that vision. The sustained energy behind aquaculture by key leadership in this Administration has energized new partnerships and re-emphasized the value of aquaculture in a resilient and thriving seafood sector, as evidenced by the critical role aquaculture plays in NOAA Fisheries’ developing Seafood Strategy.
In addition, the Subcommittee on Aquaculture (SCA), co-chaired by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, NOAA, and USDA, recently rolled out several key documents, including a Guide to Permitting Marine Aquaculture in the United States, a Strategic Plan to Enhance Regulatory Efficiency in Aquaculture, and a National Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Research. There is also a draft outline for a Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Economic Development—public comments on this draft are due by April 15, 2022. Please see the accompanying Federal Register Notice for details.
As we get back into the swing of being in person, I hope to see many of you over the next few months. Please be well, and take care.
Danielle Blacklock
Director, NOAA Office of Aquaculture
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