California Aquaculture Association » News

Schwaab to Head NOAA Fisheries Service

Michael — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 23:56:12 +0000

An Announcement from Dr. Jane Lubchenco

It gives me great pleasure to announce Eric Schwaab as the new assistant administrator for fisheries, starting February 16. We are excited to have someone with Eric’s experience and proven leadership to bring a fresh perspective to the management of NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service. Eric will lead NOAA’s efforts to rebuild our fisheries and the jobs and livelihoods that depend on them. His immediate priorities include improving outreach and relationships with recreational and commercial fishermen, better aligning federal and regional fisheries priorities, restoring confidence in fisheries law enforcement, and promoting management approaches that will achieve both sustainable fisheries and vibrant coastal communities.

Eric brings more than 25 years of experience in local, state and federal natural resource management. He has spent the majority of his career at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, where he began as a natural resources police law enforcement officer in 1983. He eventually served as director of the Maryland Forest Service; director of the Maryland Forest, Wildlife and Heritage Service; and director of the Maryland Fisheries Service. In 2003, Eric left the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to serve as resource director for the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies until 2007. He then returned to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as the deputy secretary. Eric has also served as a member of the U.S. Department of Commerce Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee.

Eric is a creative and proven manager, consensus builder and leader. He has developed and implemented solutions to address challenges in regional habitat restoration, including Chesapeake Bay restoration issues, fish and wildlife conservation, public lands management, natural resources law enforcement, public agency administration, strategic planning and leadership development.

I am excited to welcome Eric to the NOAA family. He will work with NOAA leadership, the fisheries service, his fellow assistant administrators and our many constituents to further our efforts to protect and manage the nation’s fisheries, our other trust resources including marine mammals and sea turtles, and the ecosystems upon which they depend. Welcome Eric!

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation to Dr. Jim Balsiger, the acting assistant administrator, for his superb and sustained leadership. Jim has led the fisheries service for over two years in this capacity, far from his home in Alaska, and done so with distinction. He was especially instrumental in engaging the fishery management councils in the process of developing the draft catch shares policy. Dr. Balsiger will soon return to his position as NOAA Fisheries’ regional administrator for Alaska, but before doing so will assist Eric with his transition into the fisheries service and NOAA. I’d also like to thank the entire team at NOAA Fisheries who have done an excellent job during this period.

Dr. Jane Lubchenco
Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator

New Rules planned for fish farming in Federal waters

Michael — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:11:53 +0000

[From the Ventura County Star]

WASHINGTON — Americans’ insatiable love of seafood is back on the federal government’s plate.

Five years after former President George W. Bush’s administration first proposed allowing fish farming in federal waters, the Obama administration is set to come up with its own set of rules for offshore aquaculture, including deepwater fish farming.

The new rules, which are expected to spell out a permitting process for offshore aquaculture operations, could come as early as this summer, said Michael Rubino, manager of the aquaculture program at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“We’re looking at this whole question of aquaculture in federal waters — how to go about it,” Rubino said.

Meanwhile, Rep. Lois Capps, D-Santa Barbara, has filed legislation that would establish a regulatory framework for aquaculture operations in federal waters, which begin three miles beyond the nation’s shores.

Capps’ proposal not only lays out the permitting process for offshore aquaculture facilities, but also contains environmental safeguards to see that any such projects pose a minimal risk to ocean ecology — a concern that derailed the Bush administration’s efforts.

“It is important to take a strong public health standard approach and make sure we have food safety and environmental protection as a basis for any kind of aquaculture project that would come up,” Capps said.

Ocean fish farming has long been seen by advocates as a way to guarantee a plentiful bounty of seafood even as a number of wild fish stocks decline. An estimated 80 percent of all edible seafood supplies in the United States is imported, and nearly half of all seafood is farmed, according to the San Diego-based Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute.

Right now, fish farming is limited to state waters, which begin at the shoreline and extend out for three miles.

In 2005, the Bush administration proposed allowing fish-farming operations up to 200 miles off the coast, which would have marked the first time such facilities would have been permitted in federal waters.

But that proposal, and subsequent plans, died in Congress in large part because of environmental concerns associated with fish farming, such as the discharge of waste and the use of pesticides, antibiotics and other potentially harmful chemicals.

Capps objected to the Bush plan because of the environmental issues and a belief that it was too closely tied to the fishing industry. “They wanted to go out of their way to see that industry was satisfied,” she said.

In contrast, the congresswoman’s aides say, her proposal offers a comprehensive policy that spells out the permitting process for aquaculture facilities while putting in place standards for environmental, public health and consumer protection.

Under the Capps plan, a special office to deal with offshore aquaculture would be established within the National Marine Fisheries Service at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA.

The office would be responsible for implementing the aquaculture permitting and regulatory program, as well as conducting environmental impact studies for each region of the country. The studies would determine which locations are appropriate for offshore aquaculture, the type of fish suitable for farming in each region and the impact such projects would have on other marine life.

Aquaculture permits would be good for 10 years and could be renewed for subsequent 10-year periods. Permit holders would be required to report fish escapes, the prevalence of disease and parasites and the use of any antibiotics, pesticides or other drugs and chemicals.

By putting in place a comprehensive regulatory framework, “It will be very clear to all of the stakeholders what the rules of the game are,” Capps said.

But Don Kent, president of Hubbs-SeaWorld, said Capps’ bill would create “a regulatory jumble” because some of the safeguards it would put in place already are covered by other federal agencies.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration, for example, already regulate the use of antibiotics, Kent said.

The additional requirements would be so cumbersome that, if the proposal were to become law as written, “there won’t be an (aquaculture) industry in federal waters in the United States,” Kent said. “I won’t do it under the existing bill.’’

Hubbs-SeaWorld had wanted several years ago to set up an experimental fish farm on Platform Grace — an old oil rig about 10 miles off the coast of Ventura County — to raise California yellowtail, bluefin tuna and striped bass. The project eventually was abandoned, however.

The research institute also has put on hold plans for a commercial fish farm five miles off the San Diego coast in light of the Obama administration’s announcement that it is developing an aquaculture policy.

Capps’ office responded to Kent’s concerns by saying the congresswoman’s proposal attempts to legislate “a common sense national framework for aquaculture” and that it is the result of a collaboration with environmental and consumer groups, the scientific community, the aquaculture industry and others.

The congresswoman will continue to work with all stakeholders as the process moves forward, said her spokeswoman, Emily Spain.

Rubino said NOAA has no comment on the Capps proposal, other than to reiterate that the administration prefers a national approach to aquaculture instead of a region by region approach.

New ED for Cal. Ocean Science Trust

Michael — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:18:15 +0000

NEW CALIFORNIA OCEAN SCIENCE TRUST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NAMED
Bodega Marine Laboratory Assistant Director Skyli McAfee Will Also Serve As California Ocean Protection Council Science Adviser

Oakland, Calif. Skyli McAfee has been named Executive Director for the California Ocean Science Trust (OST), effective March 1, 2010. In this role, McAfee will report to the OST Board of Trustees and serve as the Science Advisor to the California Ocean Protection Council (OPC).

McAfee replaces Dr. Amber Mace who served with distinction in these capacities from 2006 to 2009. Dr. Mace oversaw the transformation of the organization from a relative startup to one with a $2 million budget that is now considered a national model for helping bring ocean science to management. Dr. Mace recently left the OST when she was named Executive Director for the OPC.

Skyli has demonstrated a tireless dedication to supporting the development of marine science that will advance our understanding and improve the management and protection of our ocean and coastal ecosystems, said Steve Weisberg, Executive Director of the Southern California Coastal Water Research Project and Chair of the OST Board of Trustees. Her commitment to sound science, her expertise in developing collaborative partnerships, and her skill at administering large, science-based programs will ensure OST continues to achieve its goal of delivering high quality, credible science to inform decisions.

McAfee will also co-chair the OPC Science Advisory Team, along with Dr. Gary Griggs, Director of the Institute of Marine Sciences and Professor of Earth & Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

Skyli will bring a rigorous scientific and inclusive approach to resolving Californias marine resource challenges, said Griggs. I look forward to working with her to lead the OPC Science Advisory Team.

McAfee comes to OST from the University of California, Davis, Bodega Marine Laboratory, where she served as assistant director. In that capacity, she facilitated program development and administration of a renowned research lab engaged in multidisciplinary marine and terrestrial research, encouraging productive collaborations with federal and state partners such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Geological Survey, and California Department of Fish and Game. McAfee also oversaw the design and acquisition of the flagship research vessel Mussel Point, a critical asset for multidisciplinary marine research along Californias north coast.

I am thrilled to lead the Ocean Science Trust and work with all of our partners to ensure that decisions are based on the best available science, McAfee said of her new role. The OST has made significant progress toward linking science and policy to ensure decision makers have access to information essential to maintaining healthy and thriving marine ecosystem for generations to come.

A native Californian, Skyli McAfee received her undergraduate degree from University of California, Santa Barbara in Aquatic Biology and a masters degree from Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, where she studied the community ecology of reef fishes in Panamas San Blas Archipelago. McAfee and her husband, marine ecologist Steven Morgan, a professor at University of California, Davis, Bodega Marine Laboratory, have worked at marine laboratories throughout the country, focusing on population dynamics and evolution of marine life histories, as well as conservation biology and fisheries management. Always up for a challenge, McAfees passion for the sea led her to sail her small sailboat round-trip across the Atlantic, as well as up from the Panama Canal, an experience she describes as transforming and a source of her deep passion to help harness science to improve management of oceans and the wealth of resources they contain.

The California Ocean Science Trust is a non-profit organization established pursuant to the California Ocean Resources Stewardship Act of 2000 to encourage coordinated, multi-agency, multi-institution approaches to translating ocean science to management and policy. Its mission is to ensure that the best available science is applied to California policies and ocean management to successfully maintain a healthy, resilient, and productive ocean and coast.

NOAA Announces Federal Fisheries Finance Program

Michael — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 22:01:47 +0000

NOAA has announced that it has money to lend under the Fisheries Finance Program. The money, made available by an act of Congress, is available at competitive rates for many uses associated with aquaculture and fisheries. Eligible projects in aquaculture and mariculture include: Purchase of existing facilities, Acquisition of Facility Equipment or Improvements, New Construction, Reconstruction. FFP loans typically can cover up to 80% of the cost of the project. They are subject to long-term, fixed interest rates at 2% of US Treasury cost of funds. Maturity rates can be up to 25 years. For more information or to apply, contact:

NOAA Fisheries, Financial Services

7600 Sand Point Way, NE

BIN C15700, Bldg. 1

Seattle, WA 98115-6349

Phone: 206-526-6122

Email: NW.Finance@noaa.gov

Brochure: FFP_Brochure_2009v2.pdf

Biofuel Gets TV Look

Michael — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:38:34 +0000

Living With Ed’
Actor Begley keeps it real and green
Niland algae plant tapped by star

SUNECO ENERGY:
Turns plant form into biofuel.
By DAVID STEFFEN
Staff Writer Dateline: NILAND
Ed Begley Jr. of Planet Green’s reality show “Living with Ed” visited SunEco Energy facilities in Niland on Monday to learn more about algae-derived biofuel.
The ecologically minded Begley learned about a new source of biofuel developed here in the Imperial Valley.
Using organic plant material commonly found in bodies of water, SunEco Energy strives to power cars and other motorized vehicles with a renewable and clean source of energy.
“We were happy to have him choose SunEco Energy as the leading algae energy company in the world,” said SunEco Energy General Manager Ray Babb.
SunEco Energy showed Begley the process of turning algae into usable biofuels.
Begley, who drove to Niland in a hybrid Toyota Prius, saw firsthand the process of turning algae — microscopic aquatic plant matter — into biofuels that can power vehicles.
SunEco Energy could pro-

duce 13.2 million gallons of algae biofuel with its algae pond setup. The company will finish a processing plant in January.
Babb said one surface acre of algae yields 33,000 gallons of biofuel. There are 400 acres of ponds.
Babb said Begley was impressed with the process and the potential algae-based biofuels hold for the future. Seeing algae-based gasoline was a novelty for Begley, Babb said. “He never saw anything like it — not to this level,” Babb said.
An interview with Begley was not allowed per Discovery Channel rules, a spokeswoman at the scene said. The network is the parent company of “Living with Ed.” The show highlights Begley’s efforts to lead a green lifestyle, according to the show’s Web site. “Living with Ed” focuses on Begley and his wife, Rachelle, who was also present in Niland. Rachelle, who loves her husband, must adjust to his green ways, according to the show’s Web site.
Babb said algae-based fuel is the wave of the future. He said that unlike corn-based ethanol, harvesting algae for fuel would not have an impact on food supplies. He said utilizing large amounts of corn for ethanol takes away from the food supply and raises the price of corn. SunEco Energy could yield a full, mature crop of algae from its ponds every 30 days to prepare for biofuel, Babb said.
The resulting fuel would then proceed to Los Angeles, where it would have to undergo further processing, much like traditional petroleum.
Babb said algae may become the wave of the future for fuel and may increase the nation’s energy independence on the world stage.
“It’s just one step closer to getting America off foreign oil,” he said.
The program will air in February.
>> Staff Writer David Steffen can be reached at 1-760-337-3452 or dsteffen@ivpressonline.com

Park Service to Kill Trout to Save Frogs

Michael — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:19:55 +0000

Service says poison trout to save frogs
SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK (AP) — Park officials are proposing poison to save a native species of frog in the Sierra Nevada.
The National Park Service wants to pour poison into as many as 80 lakes to eradicate trout that eat the mountain yellow-legged frogs.
Rangers say a preliminary effort to kill off trout in 11 lakes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks has allowed the frog population to rebound. They say other species that compete with the nonnative fish — including some reptiles and birds — also are returning in larger numbers.
Some outdoor and environmental groups fear poisoning the lakes could alter the ecosystem and risk harming insects and other amphibians and are urging park officials to consider alternative methods.
The National Park Service proposal is open to public comment through Nov. 21.

SBGA Accepting Entries for Landry Award

Michael — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:34:14 +0000

For Immediate Release

October 22, 2009

The Striped Bass Growers Association (SBGA) is accepting entries for the Walter Landry Memorial Award to be awarded to a student for outstanding achievements in research on any of the species in the Morone genus and/or Morone hybrids. The award and a travel assistance of $250 will be presented at the SBGA Annual Meeting, which is being held in conjunction with Aquaculture America 2010 in San Diego, CA.

Entries should be submitted to “Walter Landry Memorial Award”, Striped Bass Growers Association, PO Box 1647, Pine Bluff, AR, 71613, faxed to SBGA at 870-850-7902, or e-mailed to sbga@thenaa.net no later than December 1, 2009. Applicants should identify their academic affiliation, supply contact information, and provide a summary (maximum of 4 pages) detailing their research accomplishments.

Contact: Kelly Goodwin at sbga@thenaa.net

CAA Sponsors Summit Meeting with UC Davis

Michael — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 19:50:49 +0000

The California Aquaculture Association joined with UC Davis’ CABA (Center for Aquatic Biology and Aquaculture) for a two-day summit meeting on October 13 and 14. Organizers of the meeting (Peter Struffenegger, Sterling Caviar, and Dr. Raul Piedrahitta, UC Davis, CABA Director) sought to increase and renew the connection and collaboration between California producers and the university in a variety of ways. The conference also included participants from a variety of governmental entities and from as far away as British Columbia.

The conference included a rich program with presentations from industry leaders, university faculty and researchers, and experts in the area of funding for projects. More than sixty people were in attendance from both industry and the university. The first day was filled mainly with formal presentations by topical speakers. Most of the presentations were interactive and included opportunity for questions and comments. Tuesday’s final event was a reception with an array of food prepared from products donated by aquaculture producers. The magnificent spread was prepared by Anthony Schuur of CAA along with Norma and Hanna Struffenegger. Over delicious food attendees had a chance to interact with one another and with speakers and leaders from both the university and industry.

The second day included a series of panels and presentations, again carefully designed to encourage interaction. At the conclusion of the formal panel presentations, participants were invited to tour the university’s Aquatic Center. Researchers and faculty at the university also signed up to participate in tours to California aquaculture installations. These tours will be arranged in the coming weeks.

Response from the participants was uniformly positive. There was a general consensus that the Summit had gone a long way to encourage and enable collaboration between producers and the university community. Both CABA and CAA will continue to work to encourage projects that bring researchers to work with aquaculture producers.

For program details, contact the CAA office at: execdir@caaquaculture.org.

White House Seeking Comments on Ocean Policy

Michael — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 02:11:31 +0000

US Ocean Policy - The White House Council on Environmental Quality is seeking public comments a draft report prepared by the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force which provides recommendations to the President of the United States that address: (1) a national policy for the oceans, our coasts, and the Great Lakes; (2) a United States framework for policy coordination of efforts to improve stewardship of the oceans, our coasts, and the Great Lakes; and (3) an implementation strategy that identifies and prioritizes a set of objectives the United States should pursue to meet the objectives of a national policy. Public comments are due by October 17, 2009.

On September 10, 2009, the Task Force submitted its interim report to the President addressing the first three tasks laid out in the President’s Memorandum. To allow for additional public engagement and comment before the President makes any final decision on the interim report, the Task Force is issuing it for a 30-day public comment period. Though the main focus of the Task Force now turns to developing a recommended framework for effective coastal and marine spatial planning, due to the President by December 9, 2009, the Task Force anticipates that the Interim Report will be refined as the Task Force receives further thoughtful input from the public. With this continued public participation, the Task Force will be able to provide the President with the best possible final recommendation.

Aquaculture is referenced in the Interim Report as one of several areas of interest because of existing operations in coastal areas and the potential to expand into the ocean environment under a regulatory framework for sustainable development.

The September 23, 2009 White House CEQ Federal Register Notice is posted at
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-22868.htm

Information about the CEQ Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force is posted at
http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ceq/initiatives/oceans/

The Interim Report is posted at
http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ceq/initiatives/oceans/interimreport/
* specifically at
http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/09_17_09_Interim_Report_of_Task_Force_FINAL2.pdf

Notes from the Aquaculture Development Committee

Michael — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 21:46:14 +0000

AQUACULTURE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

0830 – 1500, July 15 2009

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute

San Diego, CA

Present:

Industry Members: Greg Dale; George Ray; Mark Drawbridge; Mark Eglington; Dennis Faria; Tony Schuur; Tony Vaught; Roy Gordon

Public Agency Members: Devin Bartley (Convener); Fred Conte; Chuck Palmer; Cassidy Teufel;

Ex officio Members: Donald Kent; George Leonard; Peter Bridson;

Observers: Christina Cairns (OPC); Craig Elliott (Industry); Doug Elliot (Industry); Michael Rushton (ICF); Michael McCoy (CAA);

Absent: Barbara Dugal; Ken Beer; Fred Euphrat; Ray Fields; John Finger; Paul Olin; Rob Ross; Glenn Takeoka; Dominic Gregorio; Diane Windham.

1. Welcome and Introductions. Devin Bartley, California State Aquaculture Coordinator, opened the meeting and welcomed the participants on behalf of Director Donald Koch. Mark Drawbridge welcomed the participants to Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute. The ADC expressed its appreciation to Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute for providing the venue and a tour of their aquaculture facilities on Mission Bay.

2. The agenda (Annex 1) was adopted.

3. Restricted species

Devin Bartley explained that revisions of section 671 on restricted species and an aquaculture permit to grow them are still underway. The revisions involve both aquaculture and wildlife, therefore there will be delays in adoption of the revisions by the Fish and Game Commission. Key points in the discussion where the restriction on live sales of barramundi to only the northern part of the state, that penalties for illegal activities were not severe enough to deter illegal actions, and the lack of a clear, consistent and science-based process to follow in assessing risk of exotic species or of putting species on the restricted species list. The committee noted the following:

The committee believed the risk of adverse impacts from barramundi are minimal, whereas some department regional biologists believe the risk could be substantial in inland water bodies in the southern part of the state.
A process needs to be in place to evaluate risks of exotic species.
How is the department going to respond to reports or incidents?
What is the process to open markets and what is the process that DFG is to follow to shut down markets and further areas where exotics are to be sold in the event of problems?
There is concern that after substantial investment by fish growers the Department may shut down markets without due processes.
It appears that policy is driven by the inability to enforce the illegal movement of fish due to limited wardens, e.g. sport fishermen will illegally move barramundi to stock water bodies and terminal markets will allow illegal sales of live fish.
There may be substantial negative impact to California growers by allowing live exotic species into the state. With barramundi potentially sold only in northern California, there could be adverse impact to producers of other fish as markets may shift to selling barramundi rather than other California farm grown fish.
Criteria for the approval of a facility to raise restricted species do not exist (Note of clarification– criteria do exist in the revision of 671.1. and 671.7)
Science must guide risk assessment, use of anecdotal information is unacceptable.
Penalties for illegal activities were not severe enough to deter illegal actions.

The committee voted on and approved the following recommendations:

The committee recommends that the Department develop a standard process to evaluate the introduction and culture of non-native/exotic species. This process could follow the model of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) and include an advisory committee similar to the Aquaculture Disease Committee. The committee would be comprised of individuals from the private and public sectors to provide a clear and transparent process for decision making.
The committee recommends that the Department review 671 regulations and insure that the regulations include well defined and strict penalties for non compliance. (Note of clarification from the Aquaculture Coordinator – failure to adhere to state regulations constitute a misdemeanor under California law and this is included by reference in 671).
The committee recommends that the Department include in 671 regulations that terminal markets are required to obtain a permit to sell or hold restricted species.

4. Live Haul

Devin Bartley presented suggested revisions to the marking requirements for carriers of live fish. The revisions seem to address concerns of the ADC that significant exemptions would allow the potentially harmful transport of live fish to continue. It was asked if other law enforcement groups could assist Department wardens in enforcing and inspections. (Note – According to Nancy Foley, Chief Warden, due to the specialized expertise needed by Department wardens, other law enforcement groups would not be able to assist.)

5. PEIR

Christina Cairns (OPC) and Mike Rushton (ICF) briefed the committee on the status of the PEIR and again asked for comments on the impacts and future role of aquaculture. 3/5 of the report still needs to be completed and it must be ready for public comment by year’s end in order to utilize funds designated for the PEIR. It is anticipated that no additional funds will be available. A draft is to be ready for review by the ADCA and the Department by early October so these groups can comment in late October. Finalization is expected by May 2010. The scope of the document was discussed as to what inland facilites may be included, e.g. marine fish grown far inland.

The committee voted on and approved the following recommendation:

The committee recommends to the Director of the Department of Fish and Game that the scope of the marine PEIR be limited the Coastal zone as defined be the Coastal Commission and reaches out to the 200 mile limit.

The committee members agreed to send comments as soon as possible to Mike Rushton while copying the rest of the committee.

Action: All

6. Revision of state water bottom leases for shellfish culture

Devin Bartley informed the committee that the Fish and Game Commission is reviewing the terms and conditions for granting leases of state water bottoms. As dictated in the Fish and Game Code, the aquaculture industry must cover all costs of the program, including those associated with leasing state water bottoms. The department estimated these costs to be ~$100,000/yr. Thus, revisions of the lease should assist the department in recovering costs of the part of the program associated with managing shellfish leases. A new lease template has been drafted by the department, and specific draft leases have been developed so that the commission and farmers can review and comment. No new leases will be issues or leases renewed until the commission approves the new lease template and gives guidance on terms and conditions. It is expected that lease rates will increase. The committee was reminded that the other parts of the aquaculture program will also be reviewed in order to recover costs or to shift activities from the department to the industry.

7. Guide to registration, permits and licenses for California aquaculture

Devin Bartley reminded the committee that the production of this guide is a priority and to send material to him as soon as possible.

8. Update on Aquaculture Stimulus Grant Program

Tony Schuur and Devin Bartley informed the committee that California Department of Food and Agriculture has received information from California growers on increased feed costs, but that no final decision has been made on distribution of stimulus funds. (Note from the Aquaculture Coordinator – In light of concerns for determining methods for reimbursement to California farmers, Ms Natalie Krout of Food and Ag is working with USDA to develop equitable methods to calculate eligibility for funds in California. Devin Bartley will contact Ms Krout for current information.)

9. Report of the Sub-Committees

Aquaculture information: Tony Schuur. The size of the aquaculture sector of the California economy needs accurate numbers of production and dollar value to convey its importance to the legislature and the public. In order to investigate industry attitudes on the incorporation of mandatory reporting of production numbers as part of the annual aquaculture registration, Tony Schuur and Devin Bartley agreed to develop a survey that Michael McCoy would distribute to CAA. (Note: the survey has been developed and sent to CAA members). This item was suggested to be on the agenda for the next meeting.

Oyster seed supply: Greg Dale. Although seed supply has been inconsistent in the past, the supply was better this year. Some hatcheries are still struggling but they seem to have had better success this year than they did last year and are making changes to their systems and procedures to improve. All orders that Coast Seafoods has received have been filled. There are still significant questions as to why hatcheries have been struggling these last few years and why there has not been a natural set in Washington. Efforts are underway to address this information gap.

Marine Life Protection Act: Greg Dale. The MLPA process is finishing up in the Southern Region and beginning on the North Coast Region. There has been substantial resistance and concern voiced by the local community over the high costs of implementing the act, the need for the marine protected areas and that the needs of users of marine resources e.g. commercial and recreational fisherman, shellfish growers and others will not be considered as a priority. Greg Dale will participate in the process and keep the committee briefed as the process proceeds.

Quagga mussel: Dennis Faria. Quagga mussels have been found in the All American and Coachella Canals, but not in their tributaries nor in any farms in southern California. High water temperatures >82F and presence of predatory channel catfish and red ear sunfish may eliminate the mussels and keep them from becoming established in fish farms or nearby tributaries. The committee expressed concern that the department did not have a clearly defined response in the event of a quagga infestation in an aquaculture facility. It was proposed to follow the Aquaculture Disease Committee model where the department would work with the farm to allow sales, while eradicating the mussel and minimizing risk of spreading.

The committee voted on and approved the following recommendation:

The committee recommended that the Department develop procedures that define the actions the department will take in the event of an infestation of quagga mussels at an aquaculture facility. The procedures should follow those of the Aquaculture Disease Committee.

Aquaculture budget: Devin Bartley. There is approximately $85,000 balance to begin the 2009/2010 fiscal year. The state’s budget problems and spending freeze have prevented some funds from currently being used.

10. Any other business

Eco-certification of aquaculture products is a practice that is receiving much attention nationally and internationally. Peter Bridson informed the committee that grants may be available to assist with certification. California is considering developing a certification scheme for fishery products, however in light of no internationally accepted system for aquaculture; products from aquaculture are not now included. Input from producers is needed on this issue and it was recommended to be put on an upcoming agenda for the committee.

11. Next meeting

No specific date was set for the next meeting. However it is planned for late October in order to review the draft of the PEIR.

12. The meeting was adjourned at 15:30

Annex 1

AQUACULTURE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

0830 – 15000, July 15 2009

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute

San Diego, CA

Draft

Agenda

0800 - 0830	Arrival
0830 - 0845	1. Welcome and Introduction	Devin Bartley/HSWRI
0845 - 0900	2. Adoption of the Agenda	Devin Bartley
0900-1000	3. Revision of 671 Restricted Species in Title 14	Devin Bartley
1000-1030	4. Live Haul labeling requirements	Devin Bartley
1030-1045	Coffee/tea
1045-1130	5. PEIR Status and request for information	Christina Cairns/Mike Rushton
1130-1200	6. Revision of state water bottom leases for shellfish culture	Devin Bartley
1200 - 1315	Lunch
1315- 1330	7. Guide to registration, permits and licenses for California aquaculture	Devin Bartley
1330 – 1345	8. Update on Aquaculture Stimulus Grant Program	Devin Bartley
1345 - 1430	9. Report of the Sub-Committees
	Aquaculture information	Tony Schuur
	Oyster seed supply	Greg Dale
	Quagga mussel	Dennis Faria
	Marine Life Protection Act	Greg Dale
	Others
	Report on the State Aquaculture fund	Devin Bartley
1430 - 1455	10. Any other business
1455 – 1500	11. Next meeting (October 1-21, 2009 for PEIR comments?)
1530	Adjourn
1501 – 1700	Tour Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute	Mark Drawbridge