Courtesy of NAA: Quarterly Highlights of the RAS-N and SAS² Projects – June 2023

Recent Research, Education and Extension are shared in the June 2023 SAS² quarterly newsletter. To access the complete newsletter, click on: Newsletter: June 2023 – Land-based Aquaculture for Atlantic Salmon (salmononland.org).

Research
The Conservation Fund’s Freshwater Institute is spearheading the collection of water and biofilm samples from recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) fish production systems, including samples from several commercial facilities. Samples collected during May will be analyzed by the Center for Aquaculture Technologies to characterize the intricate microbiomes observed in RAS, particularly focusing on off-flavor-producing bacteria.

Education
Our education collaborators are excited to share updates on their upcoming summer programs. UMaine’s Aquaculture Research Institute is offering an immersive week-long workshop on RAS fundamentals from August 14^th to 18^th. Participants will delve into RAS design, maintenance, and water quality analysis, connecting with Maine’s RAS industry and earning a micro-credential aligned with occupational standards.

Extension
All hands were on deck for the annual Open House at IMET in early May, boasting a record-breaking attendance of 800 visitors. A highlight of the event was the Aquaculture Research Center (ARC), where 200 lucky guests were given a facility tour.

Check This Out!
The University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point, Northern Aquaculture Demonstration Facility, created a free online course for an existing Fish Health Certificate Program. Participants can expect to learn essential skills in assessing and managing fish disease risks using video module courses that include quizzes and a certificate of achievement. The modules explore topics such as risk assessment, water quality management, fish health inspections, veterinary assessments, and real-world case studies. A certificate is provided upon completion of the course modules. Click here to register: Online Fish Health Certificate Program for Producers – Northern Aquaculture (instructure.com).

Upcoming Events

• July 17-19: Aquaculture in Action (workshop for educators) – Baltimore City, MD
• July 31-Aug 2: Aquaculture in Action (curriculum development) – Sykesville, MD
• Aug 14-18: University of Maine ARI RAS Workshop – Orono and Franklin, ME
• Sept 18-22: Freshwater Institute RAS Course – Shepherdstown, WV
• Oct 17-19: SAS² 2023 Conference – Baltimore City, MD