About MAA Services
The Maine Aquaculture Association is a non-profit trade association that represents Maine’s aquatic farmers at the state, federal, and international levels. Our members grow shellfish, finfish, and sea vegetables.
Since 1978, we have worked to support Maine’s aquatic growers in developing economically and environmentally sustainable business practices promote the benefits of aquaculture in the local food system, and preserve Maine’s working waterfronts.
We Advocate for Maine’s Aquaculture Community
Maine’s aquaculture sector overall represents nearly 200 farms and more than 700 year-round farmers who produce premium fin fish, shellfish, and sea vegetables in Maine’s cold, clean waters.
The sector has been steadily growing in recent years, and its total economic impact has nearly tripled – from $50 million in 2007 to $137 million in 2014 – according to the latest Maine Aquaculture Economic Impact Report.
Sustainable aquaculture has tremendous potential to bolster Maine’s coastal economy, providing good jobs, local food security, and diversification opportunities for working waterfront families.
We’re Highly Involved in Our Cause
We sit on a wide range of boards, which include:
• NOAA Science Advisory Board
• International Salmon Farmers Association
• National Aquaculture Association
• Maine Fishermen’s Forum
• Alliance for Maine’s Marine Economy
• Island Institute
• Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center
• USDA Northeast Regional Aquaculture Center
• University of Maine Board of Agriculture
• Maine Agriculture in the Classroom
We Promote Responsible Aquaculture Practices
Responsible aquaculture practices are crucial for the long-term sustainability of the sector. With the increasing global demand for seafood, aquaculture offers a viable solution to meet this demand while reducing the pressure on wild fish stocks. The MAA recognizes the importance of maintaining ecological balance and minimizing the impact on natural habitats. Through our initiatives, we encourage aquaculture farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices such as minimizing waste, managing water quality, and monitoring the health of aquatic organisms.
Moreover, responsible aquaculture practices contribute to food security and economic stability. By cultivating fish, shellfish, and seaweed in controlled environments, aquaculture provides a consistent and reliable source of seafood.
This not only ensures a stable food supply but also creates employment opportunities in the aquaculture sector. The MAA actively promotes responsible practices to ensure the long-term viability of aquaculture as a sustainable food production method.
We Support the Local Economy and Our Environment
Aquaculture has significant economic and environmental benefits for the state of Maine. The sector generates revenue, provides employment, and supports local businesses. By promoting responsible aquaculture practices, we help maintain the integrity of the sector and ensure its sustainable growth.
Aquaculture farms contribute to the local economy by creating jobs, driving tourism, and providing a market for related industries such as marine and vessel services, feed suppliers, equipment manufacturers, and transportation services.
In addition to economic benefits, aquaculture plays a crucial role in environmental conservation. Sustainable aquaculture practices minimize the impact on ecosystems and promote the restoration of degraded habitats.
By cultivating species native to Maine’s waters, aquaculture farms contribute to biodiversity conservation and help preserve the natural balance of marine ecosystems.
The MAA provides guidance and resources to aquaculture farmers to ensure the environmental sustainability of our practices, further enhancing the positive impact of the industry on the local environment.
"As a business owner, I don’t feel like I have the time to write all the op-eds, provide all the testimonies, monitor all the potential changes in legislation, and keep tabs on all the potential threats to my business and our industry’s public image, but I know that MAA works consistently on all of that. It’s that advocacy and organization that makes membership worth every penny"
Resources and Support Provided by the Maine Aquaculture Association
The Maine Aquaculture Association offers a range of resources and support to aquaculture farmers, businesses, and industry stakeholders. Through educational programs, workshops, and seminars, the MAA provides valuable information and training to promote best practices in aquaculture.
We offer guidance on various aspects of aquaculture operations, including site selection, fish health management, and water quality monitoring.
Furthermore, the MAA represents the interests of Maine’s aquaculture community at the state and national levels. We advocate for policies and regulations that support responsible aquaculture practices and help the sector thrive.
By actively engaging with state and federal agencies, legislators, and other stakeholders, the MAA helps shape the regulatory framework and creates a supportive environment for Maine aquaculture businesses to thrive.
Our efforts contribute to the overall development and success of the aquaculture sector in Maine.
