For the first time in 40 years, the United States is releasing an updated National Aquaculture Development plan, strengthening U.S. commitment to food security, climate resilience, and the protection of threatened and endangered species in marine and freshwater environments.

NOAA Fisheries, on behalf of the National Science and Technology Council, Subcommittee on Aquaculture (SCA), is announcing a public comment period on components of a draft National Aquaculture Development Plan, including a draft Overview of the National Aquaculture Development Plan and the draft Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Economic Development. 

The 45-day comment period for the draft plans is open through Friday, April 5, 2024 (link to Federal Register notice).

The SCA serves as the Federal interagency coordinating group to increase the overall effectiveness and productivity of Federal aquaculture research, regulation, technology transfer, and assistance programs. It is co-chaired by the Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Department of the Interior, and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Members include the Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Army Corps of Engineers, Department of the Interior, Food and Drug Administration, Department of State, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Office of Management and Budget.

Through this plan, the Subcommittee on Aquaculture is advancing efforts to increase the nation’s seafood supply, create jobs, bolster fisheries, improve federal regulatory efficiency, and conserve and restore threatened and endangered species. Stakeholder feedback this plan will help foster sustainable U.S. aquaculture production.

To learn more, please view this web story on the NOAA Fisheries website.