SAFE
& SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD SUPPLY
Louisiana
has experienced a decline in many of its major fisheries while
seafood consumption nationwide has been simultaneously on the
rise, largely due to both competition from inexpensive imported
seafood products and the high cost of fuel for fishing vessels.
Louisiana Sea Grant, through its research, extension, and education
activities and work with industry partners, has helped to stabilize
and improve many sectors of the state's fisheries industry. Mariculture
(aquaculture of saltwater species) is in its infancy in the U.S.,
amounting to more than $1 billion of a $70 billion worldwide industry.
Mariculture development in Louisiana creates important new opportunities
to meet the increased demand for seafood, but a number of questions
need to be addressed for its full potential to be realized. Additionally,
seafood safety is a growing concern as international trade increases
and fish diseases and contamination of imports looms. Louisiana
Sea Grant plays a key role in advancing public understanding of
the nature of these issues and opportunities.
Other
Initiatives:
