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DLG Benelux, the organiser of the Seagriculture conference series, has announced that the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, will support Seagriculture USA 2024 which is set to take place in Ketchikan, Alaska from 11 – 12 September 2024. The organisers hope that this support will greatly enhance the conference, adding significant prestige and resources to the event.
Since its successful launch in 2022, Seagriculture USA has provided a leading platform for knowledge exchange within the seaweed farming industry. This year, with the support of the State of Alaska, the Alaska Mariculture Cluster, and the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce, the upcoming edition will build on its previous reputation, cultivating an unmissable event for seaweed industry professionals.
“Thrilled by the opportunity to further develop Seagriculture USA, this partnership brings people in the seaweed sector together. We deeply appreciate the support of the State of Alaska, which adds significant value to our efforts. The team is looking forward to the collaboration and coming to Ketchikan, anticipation for the event is high,” said DLG Benelux managing director Kuno Jacobs, in a press release.
The theme of this year’s Seagriculture USA, Exploring New Frontiers, embodies the spirit of innovation and discovery of the seaweed industry’s evolution in the United States. It resonates with the pioneering efforts in cultivating seaweed in Alaska’s unique environment. It’s an invitation to stakeholders from various sectors to come together, share ideas, and forge new paths, aiming to transform challenges into opportunities. This theme is a beacon for collective action, steering the future of the seaweed industry towards sustainable and economically viable paths.
“Seaweed farming holds tremendous economic potential for Alaska, with our businesses and research communities at the forefront of making it a significant economic driver. From best practices for farmers and harvesters to innovative applications for seaweed, and efforts to build a global market for seaweed products, the dialogue at Seagriculture USA is impactful and propels the industry forward,” said Jim Andersen, a State of Alaska representative.
“Alaska's commitment to economic development through the seaweed industry underscores the importance of attracting partners from overseas to collaborate and invest in our region, fostering growth and sustainability for years to come,” he added.
Whilst the conference programme is still being finalised, the organisers are already promising an exciting array of sessions and site visits, alongside a trade show and networking events. More information on the Seagriculture USA 2024 programme can be found on the event website.