NOAA Fisheries has released two draft programmatic environmental impact statements (PEIS) to support identifying Aquaculture Opportunity Areas (AOAs) in Southern California and the Gulf of Mexico. Public comments are invited from November 22, 2024, to February 20, 2025. In Southern California, up to 10 proposed AOA sites range from 500 to 2,000 acres, totaling 16,500 acres, and scenarios include various aquaculture types. In the Gulf of Mexico, four locations, totaling 6,500 acres, are proposed for different aquaculture uses.
This initiative is part of NOAA’s multi-year effort to identify environmentally and economically viable aquaculture locations, emphasizing sustainable practices, climate resilience, and responsible ocean stewardship. Supported by 19 new scientific studies and comprehensive spatial analysis from AOA atlases, NOAA’s approach integrates public input and detailed scientific review. Though the draft proposals offer data for growers, all operations must undergo full permitting processes. NOAA is also exploring opportunities in Alaska waters to further enhance food security and support coastal communities amid climate change.
About the Public Comment Period
Both draft PEIS are open for public comment via the Federal Register from November 22, 2024, through February 20, 2025. Virtual public listening sessions will be held for both Southern California and the Gulf of Mexico, where the public is welcome to provide comments. Comments received will be assessed and considered by NOAA Fisheries to prepare Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Statements for both regions.
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