First of its Kind Maryland Aquaculture Conference to be Held in Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 18, 2010) – Maryland is hosting an inaugural aquaculture conference in Annapolis on November 9-10, 2010.  The Maryland Aquaculture Conference will focus on the process for establishing successful shellfish aquaculture businesses that will provide economic growth and employment to rural areas while aiding the environment.
“Sweeping legislative changes have created an exciting opportunity to expand the aquaculture industry in Maryland,” said Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance.  “We encourage anyone interested in shellfish aquaculture to attend this valuable workshop.  Aside from growers, there will be a need for hatcheries, nurseries and others to build an economically sound and sustainable industry to help keep Maryland smart, green and growing.”

Conference participants will learn how to obtain bottom and water column leases; find and apply for financing; monitor for disease; target markets; and create profitable businesses through proper planning. Growers from other areas will discuss how they got into business, showcasing opportunities they took advantage of and highlighting how they see the future of Maryland’s shellfish industry.

Event sponsors are: the Maryland Department of Agriculture, University of Maryland Extension, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office, and the Oyster Recovery Partnership.

The conference will be held at the DoubleTree Hotel, 210 Holiday Court, Annapolis, Md., (off Riva Road at Forest Drive) on November 9 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and November 10 from 8 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.  The registration fee is $75 for the full conference or $40 per day.  For more information and to download a registration form, visit: www.marylandseafood.org or contact Martha Milligan at 410-827-8056.  Space is limited, so register early.

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