Source: NCDA&CS, 1/22/15

The 2015 N.C. Aquaculture Development Conference will be held in New Bern, Feb. 25-28.

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is one of the sponsors of the annual event, which includes presentations, workshops and tours of regional aquaculture farms.

“This year’s conference has been extended to include an optional course on aquaponics on Wednesday, Feb. 25,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “This session should be an interesting addition to this annual conference, which draws fish farmers, scientists and industry newcomers from across the Southeast.”

Aquaponics combines the use of recirculating aquaculture systems with the production of plants without soil. The introductory course, taught by representatives of Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems, will provide an overview of various aquaponic systems and components.

On Thursday, Feb. 26, there will be tours of local freshwater and saltwater aquaculture farms. Events Friday and Saturday will include research presentations, workshops and a trade show. Speakers will provide market insights, best management practices and industry updates for aquaculture operations across the Southeast.Keynote speaker will be Mike Freeze, president of the National Aquaculture Association and owner of Keo Fish Farm in Keo, Ark.

The conference also includes the AquaFood Festival, a dinner featuring N.C. farm-raised fish and shellfish, Feb. 27 at 6:30 p.m.
The conference will take place at the Doubletree by Hilton in New Bern. Online registration and hotel information are available at www.ncaquaculture.org.