© C Katalinas/Maine Sea Grant
For the first time in over 40 years, the United States has released a comprehensive update to its National Aquaculture Development Plan, reaffirming its commitment to this method of seafood production. The updated plan emphasises aquaculture’s role as a climate-smart food source, highlighting its potential to bolster food security.
The plan was developed by the National Science and Technology Council's Subcommittee on Aquaculture and integrates several strategic frameworks, including a newly finalised Strategic Plan for Aquaculture Economic Development. Together with earlier plans for regulatory efficiency and research enhancement, the framework aims to advance aquaculture’s contributions to public health, resilient communities, economic growth, and environmental health.
Aquaculture has already aided more than 70 endangered or threatened species, such as Pacific salmon, white abalone, and queen conch, by enhancing wild populations. Hatchery-reared seedstock and fingerlings play a critical role in this effort, as well as in rebuilding degraded habitats.
This long-awaited update signals a renewed focus on expanding sustainable aquaculture as a key pillar of U.S. food systems.
