NOAA and partners recently convened a two-day workshop to develop a roadmap for sustainable aquaculture development in the coastal waters off Southern California. Participants developed consensus on primary environmental concerns, reviewed the regulatory framework for coastal aquaculture development, and created a coastal manager working group to guide the permitting process.

The aquaculture industry in southern California is preparing to lead the nation and go offshorewith commercial fish and shellfish demonstration projects in federal waters. Going offshore entailshigher costs and risks and therefore requires careful planning. Science presented at the workshopfocused on identifying tools and expertise to assist with siting, modeling, and decision-making.

Over 40 coastal managers and stakeholders attended the event, representing more than 10 state and federal agencies. The workshop was organized and hosted jointly by NCCOS, the NOAA Sea Grant Office, NMFS, and various local and regional partners, including the Aquarium of the Pacific, where the meeting was held.

For more information, visit the NCCOS Coastal Aquaculture Planning Portal, or contact James.Morris@noaa.gov.