COMMONWEALTH QUALITY SECTORS

About Massachusetts Aquaculture

Massachusetts aquaculture is a diverse sector of the Commonwealth’s agricultural industry. Although the cultivation of aquatic species (specifically shellfish and crustaceans) was practiced by the Native Americans and later by the Colonists on Cape Cod, it was not until the 1970s when more efficient cultivation techniques were developed and commercial cultivation activities began. Since that time, aquaculture in Massachusetts has grown to include more than 15 species of fish and shellfish that are cultivated for food, research, biomedical, sport and ornamental purposes.

Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries reported that the Massachusetts shellfish aquaculture industry generated more than $6.2 million in 2006. At that time, there were more than 350 individuals and companies involved in aquaculture in Massachusetts, with nearly 300 as marine shellfish culture enterprises growing primarily Quahogs (hard shell clam) and American oyster. The Commonwealth’s finfish growers produce a variety of species of finfish, including barramundi, tilapia, largemouth bass, black sea bass, brown bullhead, several species of trout, and several species of baitfish.

Commonwealth Quality brings standards, best management practices and the diversity of the Massachusetts' aquaculture industry together.

Now that's Commonwealth Quality!

 

More information on the Commonwealth Quality Program for aquaculture will be coming soon.