In 1994, CZM was charged with initiating a strategic planning process to help the state’s aquaculture industry overcome existing constraints, including the regulatory framework, business climate, public acceptability, and user conflict. That planning process concluded in October of 1995 with the release of the Massachusetts Aquaculture White Paper and Strategic Plan (PDF, 14 MB). The Plan describes the aquaculture industry in Massachusetts, identifies barriers to development, and proposes 68 recommendations to restore this industry. Since the release of the Plan, many of the recommendations have been implemented including the designation of a lead agency (Department of Agricultural Resources), and appointment of an Aquaculture Coordinator, formation of an industry advisory group, establishment of a grants program, and regulatory streamlining. CZM continues to work with the Department of Food and Agriculture in implementing the recommendations of the Plan.
See also the Department of Agricultural Resources Aquaculture Website.