The proposed project will promote fishpond production of native species in hawaii by targeting replacements for commonly imported products

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) awarded a $100,000 Project Grant under the Fisheries Development and Utilization Research and Development Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program (CFDA 11.427) to Kauai Sea Farms LLC. The project aims to promote fishpond production of native species in Hawaii by targeting replacements for commonly imported seafood products. Key activities include investigating harvesting and processing strategies to maximize the value of unpredictable fishpond harvests, conducting market surveys to gauge consumer attitudes between imported and fishpond-produced seafood, and compiling project findings along with related past research into a publication outlining opportunities for advancing fishpond production. The publication will provide guidance on permitting, regulatory requirements, and best practices for fishpond practitioners. The project will run from January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2026.

Harvesting and processing strategies will be investigated to maximize the value of unpredictable harvests from fishponds, and market surveys will be conducted to gauge consumer attitudes and preferences between imported seafood and fishpond products. Project findings will be compiled along with related past research in a publication outlining opportunities for promoting fishpond production. Production will focus on native species that are well-adapted to fishpond culture. This publication will be written in a comprehensible format intended for fishpond practitioners, and will include an outline of the permitting and regulatory requirements for production, harvesting, and value-added processing of products.