The National Aquaculture Association has developed a narrated PowerPoint presentation, “U.S. Aquaculture: The New Face of Farming.” which is now available on the NAA website.   The presentation provides an extensive overview of aquaculture and is designed to be used with civic groups, school classes, and other local programs.  Run time is approximately 17 minutes.

The presentation traces aquaculture back to its historical beginnings in the civilizations of ancient Egypt, China, and the Roman Empire.  A major focus is the diversity of the industry from aquatic plants to food fish and shellfish to ornamentals to baitfish and stockers for the recreational community.  It even delves into future possibilities such as energy generation and pharmaceuticals.

The overall message is that U.S. aquaculture is safe and sustainable.  Most people are unaware of aquaculture.  If they do have some knowledge, it is often filled with misconceptions generated by the media.  This presentation provides contra-arguments for a more balanced perspective.  

During one of NAA's  stakeholder workshops, a local government official commented that she often hears the negatives  about aquaculture development from environmental groups, but never hears the other side of the argument and we need to do a better job of delivering that message.  This presentation attempts to provide that message in a user-friendly way.  Many of the producers and educators who attended  NAA-sponsored workshops during the past two years, requested copies of a PowerPoint to use when asked to speak at local programs and in classrooms.  This presentation is an effort to use those existing resources and opportunities to help educate a larger segment of the general public.

The need to grow the U.S. aquaculture industry to meet the demands of a growing population that is increasingly focused on leisure activities and the adoption of a healthier lifestyle is a message that must be delivered if our industry is to prosper.

View the video here “U.S. Aquaculture: The New Face of Farming" .  Copies are also available upon request to NAA members, extension agents, educators, culinary professionals, civic clubs, media, etc. by contacting the NAA at 870.850.7900 or naa@thenaa.net.