(TRENTON) – Following the adoption earlier
this month of new rules that established an aquaculture
policy framework to foster the full development of
the growing aquaculture industry, the New Jersey Department
of Agriculture has scheduled free workshops to assist
the agricultural community in obtaining the new Aquatic
Farmer License.
The Aquatic Farmer License was established to allow producers to demonstrate
definitive ownership of the organisms being cultured and reduce the possibility
of the introduction of exotic pests that may be detrimental to wild stocks
and other aquatic farms.
Aquaculture is a form of agriculture involving the propagation, rearing,
harvesting, processing, packaging and marketing of aquatic organisms – such
as shellfish and fish -- in controlled or selected environments.
“Aquaculture is an economically viable form of agriculture that is essential
to providing a sustainable source of food production,” said Agriculture
Secretary Charles M. Kuperus. “Aquaculture development also promotes a
healthy environment and is compatible with tourism and other recreational activities
since shellfish need high quality water to thrive.”
The workshops will help current and prospective aquatic farmers in completing
the application for the new license, including requirements and exemptions.
New materials that have been developed will be distributed. There is
no fee associated with either the workshop or the Aquatic Farmer License.
“Fish and seafood are high value crops that can allow farmers to diversify
their businesses,” said Secretary Kuperus. “Expansion of the aquaculture
industry is expected to result in increased tax revenues, generate thousands
of additional jobs, and add to the food supply.”
The Aquatic Farmer License Workshops will take place:
· July 8, 1-4 p.m. Lewis Morris County Park
Cultural Center, Morristown
· July 13, 6-9 p.m. Tuckerton Seaport, Hunting Shanty Classroom, Tuckerton
· July 20, 6-9 p.m. Cumberland County College, AITC, Vineland
The workshops are sponsored by the NJDA, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
and New Jersey Sea Grant.
RSVP for these FREE workshops by contacting the New Jersey Department
of Agriculture at 609-984-2502 or joseph.myers@ag.state.nj.us.
Please contact the NJDA for venue information or directions. |