Aquaculture sustainable development

2005 Impact statement

abstract

Develop cost effective methods of producing food fish and shrimp in an environmentally sustainable manner.

submitted by

issue being addressed

Seafood is increasingly supplied by aquaculture due to the lack of supply from the wild catch. By 2010, shortage of seafood from wild catch availability is in excess of 15 million metric tons. Seafood is also one of the first food products that improve the general nutrition and welfare of low-income countries. The liklihood is that seafood product will be produced in low-income countries where environmental sustainability may not receive appropriate emphasis.

response

We are working with colleagues in multiple colleges at Cornell, several US universities and with scientists in Chile, private and public concerns in Mexico to address the technological issues of producing fish while maintaining the environment. A 1-week short course is offerred in both Spanish and English and in either a distance or hands-on format to provide fundamental teaching of engineering related to the topic. A workshop was held in Hermosillo MX in 2005.

impact assessment

Improved production methodologies are being used for fish and shell production without environmental degradation. Economic development for small family farms is being initiated in Mexico.

funding source description

  • Federal Formula Funds - Research (e.g., Hatch, McIntire-Stennis, Animal Health)
  • Other USDA (e.g., Water Quality, Special Grants, NRI)
  • The short course generates revenues that we use to support the general program.

key personnel

  • John Jacob
  • Kevin Fitzsimmons
  • Barry Costa-Pierce

department, unit, division

mission focus

submitted as part of CALS annual faculty reporting, February 2006