Offshore aquaculture in U.S. federal waters (3-200 nautical miles offshore) is moving from concept to reality. This panel will examine the current regulatory landscape, business opportunities, environmental safeguards, and stakeholder concerns – grounded in specific, real-world projects that are operating or moving through the permitting process.
The panel will represent current and proposed offshore aquaculture sites in U.S. federal waters, as well as regulatory agencies. Discussions will center on federal policy and permitting framework, including NOAA Aquaculture Opportunity Areas (AOAs) and the Marine Aquaculture Research for America (MARA) Act.
The panel will also evaluate how siting, scale, and species play a critical role in project development.
