- Division of Marine Fisheries
DMF has developed a website outlining the process to permit aquaculture projects in Massachusetts. The objective of this project was to create a web-based interface that aquaculture growers can use to navigate the permitting pathway in Massachusetts. Keeping in mind the needs of Massachusetts aquaculture growers, the website provides a one-stop shop for information about the cost, timeline, and permit application, as well as resources for new growers and detailed steps for the annual reporting process. The permitting tool steps growers sequentially through the state permitting requirements and provides on-line access to permit applications. Information related to preventing negative impacts to fisheries habitats, protected species, and public access of our shared coastal waters is also provided. To ensure the tool was user-friendly the team communicated with growers one-on-one and at group meetings. The website was built with partners from University of Massachusetts-Boston, NOAA Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office, and the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension with funding from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. You can check out the new website here.
