Aquatic Farming Program

Aquatic Farm News!

To further encourage and promote the state-wide shellfish industry, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Mining, Land, and Water is now accepting aquatic farm applications and lease amendments for the culture of shellfish. The application opening began on January 1st and will run through April 30th every year. The opening is for the purpose of applying for a 10-year, aquatic farm lease to commercially farm pacific oysters, mussels, littleneck clams, geoduck clams or other shellfish. In addition, the new opening gives existing farmers a yearly opportunity to apply for lease amendments which require public notice. Previously the opening was held every-other-year per 11 AAC 63.020.

The Department is hoping the yearly opening will provide more opportunities for Alaskans to establish shellfish farms within state-owned waters which in turn present economic opportunity for rural communities. Commercial shellfish farming is a sustainable industry that once established adds additional protection to keep coastal waters free of contaminants and provides job opportunities to rural Alaskans where other employment opportunities have been lost.

To download the application, click on the link below. For more information about the aquatic farm program or to be added to the mailing list, contact Renee Romsland, Aquatic Farm Program Manager.

2012 Application Process, Forms, and Instructions

Aquatic Farm Leases Available

Aquatic Farming Program Presentation: