NOAA Fisheries has released the preliminary results of a marine spatial planning study identifying draft Aquaculture Opportunity Area (AOA) options in Southeast, Southcentral, and Southwest Alaska. This marks a major step toward advancing aquaculture development in the region, in line with the May 2020 Executive Order aimed at boosting American seafood production.
The draft AOA options are now available for public review.
This planning effort is the result of a partnership between NOAA Fisheries, NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, and the State of Alaska.
NOAA is encouraging stakeholders to provide input on local site conditions, existing activities, and the feasibility of aquaculture operations in these areas.
AOAs are geographic areas assessed for their environmental, social, and economic suitability to support commercial aquaculture. Evaluations are guided by spatial analysis and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review.
In Alaska, only shellfish and seaweed farming are being considered due to a state law prohibiting finfish aquaculture.
The 30-day public comment period is open through May 23, 2025, with comments accepted via the federal e-rulemaking portal, by mail, or during virtual listening sessions scheduled for May 8 and May 16, 2025. Public feedback will help inform final AOA selections.
