Opportunities for New Aquaculture Businesses 

Now is a great time to start an Aquaculture Business in Connecticut! The Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Aquaculture is responsible for running the shellfish sanitation program and regulating the shellfish industry for the entire Connecticut coastline. The Bureau has been working to expand and create opportunities for new companies. 

• The Bureau has expanded Approved waters in eastern Connecticut in recent years and is resuming routine sampling of those water by placing a state vessel in the region to provide additional new opportunities from East Lyme-Stonington.
• The Branford Initiative provides an opportunity to engage in aquaculture on a small scale for a fee of $25.00 per acre.
• The Bureau is collaborating on shellfish restoration efforts to enhance oyster set on Connecticut's natural beds. By cleaning and laying oyster shell, which oyster larvae set on, there will be more oysters to spawn future generations and continue to support the shellfish industry.

SeaGrant is now offering a new training course, Foundations in Shellfish Farming, starting January 24, 2023. This course will provide a critical overview of all aspects involves with shellfish farming and insights from current shellfish harvesters. It is a great way for prospective farmers to learn about the regulatory, financial, and physical aspects of shellfish farming. Regulatory components include permitting; licensing; leasing; and inspecting shellfish dealers, vessels, and records.