Introduction to Aquaculture Workshop

Libby Carnahan
UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant Extension Agent

Investing in commercial aquaculture in Florida can be financially rewarding, but it can also be disastrous without the proper research. Aquaculture is one of the most technically demanding and financially risky forms of “agricultural” production that exists. To learn more about the opportunities and potential pitfalls associated with investing in Florida aquaculture, the Pinellas County Extension Office and UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant is offering an Introduction to Aquaculture Workshop on Wednesday, June 12th.

The workshop is open to the public, and is specifically intended for individuals who have an interest in development or growth of aquaculture–related businesses. The workshop will also provide a good overview for educators interested in teaching aquaculture to youth or adults. Aquaculture extension specialists from around the state, and a representative of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Aquaculture, will present current information on the status of aquaculture in Florida, pros and cons of specific business ventures, an overview of state regulations, and a discussion of resources available to support these businesses.

The workshop will be held Wednesday June 12th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg, Florida. Pre-registration is required and can be accessed at http://aquacultureworkshop.eventbrite.com . A $10 registration fee includes lunch and materials. For more information, contact Libby Carnahan lcarnahan@ufl.edu or (727)453-6522. For more information on aquaculture in Florida visit http://www.flseagrant.org/aquaculture.

Grilled or Fried? Consumer Seafood Survey

  
Libby Carnahan,
Pinellas County Sea Grant Extension Agent  

Popcorn shrimp, smoked mullet, blackened mahi mahi, grouper piccata…no matter how you sauté it, smoke it, fry it, or grill it, Florida offers many tasty seafood options. But how do you decide what seafood to eat and where to buy it? Is it the cost, health benefits, or origin of your seafood that weighs on your mind?

The University of Florida Extension Service and Florida Sea Grant want to know. We are asking for the input of Florida residents on a statewide consumer survey, which should take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. Your feedback will help in the development of future university extension education and outreach programs.

http://www.flseagrant.org/component/content/article/16-seafood-production-and-safety/315-seafood-survey

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Picking the Reel Deal…Making Healthy Seafood Choices

By: Nan Jensen, FCS Agent

Fish and shellfish are an important part of a healthy diet. In addition to being a source of high quality protein, they are low in saturated fat and some varieties contain omega-3 fatty acids. Including seafood as part of a well-balanced diet can contribute to heart health and support children's growth and development. While seafood can be a healthy choice, it is important to pay attention to safety. Buy from a retailer who follows proper food handling practices. Make sure the place where you purchase your seafood looks and smells clean. Handle and store it safely when you arrive home. If you don’t plan to use it in a day or two, freeze it for later use.


Another safety consideration is the amount of mercury in some species of fish. Pregnant moms, those considering getting pregnant and moms who are nursing should avoid shark, swordfish, King mackerel and tilefish. Shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock and catfish are good low mercury alternatives.

Finally, as you make your seafood purchases, choose species that are abundant, well-managed and caught or farmed in environmentally friendly ways. The Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Marine Stewardship Council can help you with your choices.

Resources

U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Provides information about safely selecting and storing seafood