Monday, April 4, 2011

Oyster aquaculture thrives, but consequences loom

Growing oysters in Virginia used to be a lousy business venture. Only the most ardent farmers could steer the Chesapeake Bay delicacy past diseases, predators and other obstacles into adulthood. That was before advances, most notably the creation of a genetically modified oyster, made cultivation easier and profitable.

Now everyone from watermen to real estate agents want part of the action. And the industry, after years of flying under the radar, is stirring controversy in Hampton Roads and beyond. Waterfront property owners worry their serene views will be fouled by the sights and smells of the seafood trade. Oyster growers are concerned the tension will prompt lawmakers to zone the bay, effectively limiting where they can work.

That, they say, could hamper a business that many believe is the commercial fishery's only chance for survival. Read more ...

This blog is written by Martin Little The Aquaculturists, published and supported by the International Aquafeed Magazine from Perendale Publishers
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