The goal of this project is to address recognized bottlenecks for processing options and absence of markets that inhibit the expansion of the commercial seaweed sector in alaska, specifically in…

The goal of this project is to address recognized bottlenecks for processing options and absence of markets that inhibit the expansion of the commercial seaweed sector in alaska, specifically in kachemak BAY. The primary objective of this project is to design and test a proof of concept seaweed processing and distribution hub in homer, alaska that would serve multiple small farms in the kachemak BAY region. The project will have the active participation of the mariculture community and will address a significant barrier inhibiting the sector's economic growth. The project aims to promote new business practices that will allow for increased seaweed production, (centralized processing and distribution), developing new local and regional markets for minimally processed seaweed, and supporting local production of new value-added seaweed products. The project also aims to create new jobs and business opportunities using existing infrastructure in ways that will contribute to the economic