Introducing: The Maine Aquaculturist

In October, we announced the launch of The Maine Aquaculturist — a free-to-use online knowledge portal that helps Maine’s sea farmers access an array of existing business resources across the state.

Maine’s rapidly growing aquaculture industry enjoys a comprehensive support system that includes state agencies, NGOs, research labs, academic institutions, trade groups, and other organizations invested in the economic potential aquaculture represents. Between these organizations and the farms themselves, there is no shortage of information available — but it can be difficult for farmers to find information quickly amid all the other demands of their businesses.

The Maine Aquaculturist, developed by GMRI aquaculture staff in partnership with Maine Aquaculture Association and with sponsorship from FocusMaine, addresses this challenge by centralizing and organizing these resources to help farmers find the information they need.

The new platform serves startups and mature aquaculture companies alike. From developing an initial business plan to selling product at market, the platform’s Essential Start Guide charts the course for new aquaculture entrepreneurs. Additionally, a guide to financing options helps startups pursue funding. For industry veterans, the platform features a searchable resource database, job board, and regulatory update tracker.

The Maine Aquaculturist responds to an industry-wide need identified by aquaculture business owners. A series of working sessions and conversations with aquaculturists from across the industry drove the content, structure, and design of the platform. The site acknowledges contributions from a group of oyster, mussel, and kelp farmers from around the state, as well as other industry experts.