Economic Impact Assessment of the Maine Aquaculture Sector

Lead PI: Christian Brayden

PI Email: christian@maineaqua.org

Co-PI: Sebastian Belle

Project Team: Christian Brayden, Sebastian Belle, Annie Langston, Chris Davis, hired consultant

Abstract: This study, led by the Maine Aquaculture Association’s (MAA) Christian Brayden and Sebastian Belle, will source data from the Department of Marine Resources and a survey of Maine aquaculture producers to collect production, financial, and labor data. MAA will produce an RFP to hire subcontractors to adapt and run an Input-Output model using aquaculture and Maine-specific multipliers. This Model will be based on the existing IMPLAN model. The Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center (MAIC) was a co-author of the 2017 study and will also provide support in this effort, as well as matching funds. The deliverable will be a report that includes the total direct, indirect and induced economic effects of the Maine aquaculture sector on the state of Maine’s economy. Details will include the number of jobs created by Maine aquaculture, the total labor income, and a breakdown of impacts of sub-sectors of the aquaculture sector. This study will provide updated figures to present regulators, legislators, policymakers, and other stakeholders with accurate data illustrating the magnitude of Maine’s aquaculture sector to the State’s economy. Findings will be shared through the legislature, social media networks, news outlets, and via webinar.

Project Dates: September 1st 2022 – September 30th 2023

Project Funding: Maine Aquaculture Hub 2.0; Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center congressionally delegated earmark match funding