NOAA is currently seeking public input to help shape the scope and objectives of a draft policy for marine aquaculture. We are particularly interested in hearing ideas about how the policy can most effectively guide and support science; provide clear regulations; support outreach, education, and innovation; and define the U.S. role in this international industry. As a first step, NOAA is currently seeking broad input on the components of a draft aquaculture policy from interested stakeholders including communities, state and local governments, tribes, businesses, associations, the aquaculture industry, commercial and recreational fishermen, the seafood industry, non-governmental organizations, and the general public.
Stakeholders can participate in three ways - by participating in a listening session (calendar below), by submitting a comment online, or by participating in a national call-in. The details for all of these options are listed online at: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/aquaculture/policy1. The public input period will begin on April 6 and end on May 14, 2010.
After the listening sessions are over, NOAA will analyze the public input and develop a draft national policy for review and public comment. Once that process is complete, the agency will issue a new NOAA Aquaculture Policy which will provide a foundation for sustainable aquaculture that will create employment and business opportunities in coastal communities; provide safe, sustainable seafood; and complement NOAA's comprehensive strategy to maintain healthy and productive marine populations, species, and ecosystems and vibrant coastal communities.
The meeting near you will be held:
April 19 in New Orleans, Louisiana
Time: 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New Orleans District Building
Address: 7400 Leake Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118
Note: You must present a U.S. government-issued photo ID to enter this building.
