This legislation would promote seafood production in the United States.
U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) have introduced the Marine Aquaculture Research for America (MARA) Act of 2025 to strengthen the capabilities of the aquaculture industry and its technical workforce.
The MARA Act would enable the NOAA Office of Aquaculture to authorize offshore aquaculture, facilitate the approval process for offshore aquaculture operations, and create Aquaculture Centers of Excellence, and consequently foster the growth of the sector.
"Increasing seafood infrastructure at ports is necessary to have a thriving and sustainable industry. This legislation would promote seafood production in the United States and would decrease American reliance on seafood imports," detailed Senator Wicker.
Additionally, Senator Schatz explained: "Offshore aquaculture can help meet growing seafood demand, support coastal economies, and reduce imports. Our bill will support the responsible assessment of offshore aquaculture by expanding research and supporting workforce and infrastructure development."
In July, the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) offered a training program to support the expansion of off-bottom oyster aquaculture in the state.
The organization's aim was to help reduce dependence on seed suppliers from other states. Additionally, two production seasons were planned for 2025, with spawning events.
Moreover, the Mississippi State University has begun construction on the US state's first facility dedicated to aquatic food safety, quality assessment, processing, and product development.
Regarding the MARA Act, Kelly Lucas, Vice President for Research at the University of Southern Mississippi, noted: "By investing in responsible aquaculture, workforce development, and collaborative innovation, this legislation ensures that the U.S. leads in sustainable seafood production while safeguarding our ocean ecosystems. We applaud Senators Wicker and Schatz for their bipartisan leadership in advancing aquaculture policy."
