In February, Sitka, Alaska hosted the largest Mariculture Conference of Alaska to date. The event brought together over 300 industry experts, farmers, processors, researchers, community leaders, and other professionals. The focus was on reviewing accomplishments, addressing challenges, and supporting the development of the state’s mariculture industry.
The conference began with an evening at Harbor Mountain Brewing Company. Attendees enjoyed a showcase of photography contest submissions by the Alaska Mariculture Alliance. The event also featured a tradeshow and poster session at Harrigan Centennial Hall. Fresh Alaskan oysters shucked by local farmers and “seaweedish” meatballs prepared by a renowned chef were served.
Keynote presentations were delivered by Robert Venables and Danielle Blacklock. Venables discussed the progress and highlights of the Alaska Mariculture Cluster. Blacklock spoke about growing the Alaska mariculture sector from NOAA’s perspective.
The conference included presentations and panel discussions on innovations, community engagement, regulatory frameworks, market expansion strategies, genetics, and ecosystem interactions. Workshops focused on supporting industry growth through practical tools and collaboration.
Melissa Good, Alaska Sea Grant’s mariculture specialist and conference chair said: “The 2025 Mariculture Conference of Alaska was a huge success… It was great to see so many people from across the state and beyond coming together to share ideas.”
Adjacent events included meetings for the Alaska Mariculture Alliance and Alaska Shellfish Growers Association as well as the Alaska Seaweed and Shellfish Festival hosted by Sitka Sound Science Center.
The next Mariculture Conference of Alaska is planned for March 2026 in Anchorage.
Information from this article can be found here.
