Current Projects
Mariculture Pilot Projects
OCMC’s pilot restorative mariculture project is being led by the Oregon Kelp Alliance on the southern Oregon coast, out of Port Orford. The pilot project aims to grow native bull kelp on temporary vertical point moorings. The kelp grown on these moorings helps serve two purposes: (1) produce marketable products in the form of biostimulants, soil additives, livestock feed amendments, food for people, and other potential products, and (2) grow reproductive spore material to be used in kelp forest restoration efforts. Our restorative mariculture approach works at the intersection of conservation and commercial efforts, showing that there is real economic value in cultivating native kelp species while supporting restoration efforts that create habitat for local fisheries. To achieve these goals, we partner with local fishermen to deploy and retrieve moorings, harvest kelp, and process it, providing economic diversification opportunities and income stability to local residents.
Mariculture Spatial Analysis
OCMC’s spatial analysis assesses potential diversification and growth of the mariculture sector in Oregon. In collaboration with GeoHorizons, a consulting firm specializing in mariculture assessment, we are developing spatial models to understand (1) how much estuarine and nearshore ocean space might be available for mariculture, (2) which novel, native species show opportunity for cultivation, and (3) optimal locations for mariculture in Oregon waters. This spatial analysis considers a suite of biological constraints, coastal infrastructure availability, and estuarine and ocean uses to prioritize suitable locations for cultivating native shellfish and seaweeds.
Mariculture Market & Financial Analysis
The objective of OCMC's market and financial analyses is to assess both the current and potential market value of Oregon’s mariculture products. The project addresses two key questions: (1) How much physical expansion of Oregon’s mariculture sector is feasible? (2) What is the potential for introducing new mariculture products to the market and increasing the production of existing ones? Drawing on findings from our Spatial Analysis, industry interviews, and other research, the report will estimate the capacity to expand Oregon’s mariculture footprint alongside insights into emerging product opportunities and growth potential for established offerings. Our aim is to equip both new entrants and experienced growers with essential business tools—such as enterprise budgets—while providing a clear, data-driven understanding of how much untapped opportunity remains in Oregon’s mariculture sector.
Oregon Mariculture Network
Oregon’s estuaries are spread along the coastline and far from urban centers. The Oregon Mariculture Network aims to connect people working across the mariculture and seafood sectors. This work aims to (1) Connect practitioners to increase opportunities for peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, (2) Identify or create resources to support the mariculture industry, and (3) Develop outreach and educational materials to help increase seafood demand and public understanding in Oregon. Our network informs and helps develop our work. We hope the Mariculture Network will grow and support in-person and virtual events, such as educational webinars, technical trainings, tours, and other activities.
Mariculture Permitting Strategies
Oregon’s permitting pathway for shellfish aquaculture is complex, and a regulatory pathway for seaweed aquaculture does not currently exist. This project aims to (1) Identify current barriers in shellfish aquaculture permitting, (2) Explore how other states have approached seaweed aquaculture permitting to help inform a future permitting pathway in Oregon, and (3) Convene state agencies to share our findings and identify potential solutions that support both state managers and mariculture development.
Tending the Tides: Stories of Mariculture on the Oregon Coast
Ecotrust is developing a podcast series that highlights stories from Oregon’s growing mariculture sector. Visit the podcast webpage to learn more.
Connection to Broader Aquaculture Sector of Oregon
In addition to the Oregon Coastal Mariculture Collaborative projects, several other efforts are underway to expand Oregon’s overall aquaculture sector. Led by representation from the Oregon Aquaculture Association, this work will maintain lines of communication and, where synergistic, collaboration with broader strategic planning efforts for aquaculture in Oregon.