The NOAA-backed programme will advance aquaculture research, technology development, and industry partnerships aimed at expanding sustainable domestic seafood production and reducing reliance on imports.
The University of New Hampshire (UNH) has been selected to lead a major national aquaculture initiative backed by approximately US$13.5 million in initial funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The programme, known as the Cooperative Institute Fostering Aquaculture Research and Markets (CIFARM), is designed to strengthen America’s seafood supply chain through innovation, research, and sustainable aquaculture development.
The five-year initiative will focus on increasing domestic seafood production while improving efficiency, environmental sustainability, and market access for aquaculture products. By bringing together researchers, industry stakeholders, and government agencies, CIFARM aims to address key challenges facing the U.S. seafood sector and support long-term growth.
Under the programme, scientists will develop advanced technologies for fish farming and aquaculture operations, including the use of artificial intelligence to optimize production systems. Research will also explore offshore aquaculture, seafood market development, and methods for improving the resilience of seafood production in changing ocean conditions.
UNH will coordinate a nationwide network of partners that includes universities, Sea Grant programmes, and research institutions across the United States. The collaborative approach is intended to accelerate innovation while ensuring that aquaculture development benefits coastal communities, seafood producers, and consumers alike.
According to project leaders, the initiative seeks to reduce the country’s dependence on imported seafood by expanding responsible domestic production. The United States consumes more than US$24 billion worth of seafood annually, with a significant portion sourced from overseas suppliers. Strengthening local aquaculture capacity is expected to improve food security, create economic opportunities, and enhance supply chain resilience.
The programme will also leverage UNH’s existing aquaculture infrastructure, including its AquaFort offshore research and training platform, which supports integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems combining fish, seaweed, and shellfish production. These systems are designed to improve environmental performance while increasing seafood output.
Industry experts believe the initiative could play a significant role in advancing sustainable seafood production in the United States. By combining research, technology, workforce development, and market expansion efforts, CIFARM aims to position aquaculture as a key contributor to the nation’s future food system and coastal economy.