Seaweed Aquaculture Workshop, Kelp Farming Class to be Offered in Belfast
Maine Sea Grant and University of Maine Cooperative Extension will host an all-day workshop on seaweed aquaculture science, policy and commercial product development at the University of Maine Hutchinson Center in Belfast on Thursday, Aug. 29, followed by a three-hour class on kelp farming techniques.
The Seaweed Scene workshop will offer the opportunity for attendees to catch up on the latest in research and development and help plan for the future in seaweed science, management and industry in Maine and New England.
The workshop runs from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. and will include presentations from science and industry experts as well as time for discussions and networking.
“An Introduction to the Equipment, Processes and Techniques of Kelp Farming” will be offered 4:30–7:30 p.m. to provide a hands-on opportunity to learn techniques for growing kelp from spore to harvest.
The class will be taught by leading industry members from the Portland-based commercial kelp farm Ocean Approved and University of Connecticut scientists. Using techniques developed with UConn researchers, Ocean Approved has been farming native kelp on the Maine Coast for three years.
Morning and afternoon refreshments will be provided during the workshop. Attendees are welcome to bring a seaweed-based dish to share at lunch, as well as accompanying recipe.
Limited space is available for vendors.
To register for the free workshop or kelp class, to sign up for vendor space or for more information, contact Sarah Redmond at 207.841.3221, or sarah.redmond@maine.edu. Registration is required, as space is limited.
The event is funded by the Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center.
Contact: Elyse Kahl, 207.581.3747