Resources Database

These risk management tools are designed to help Maine aquaculture producers find new ways to identify and respond to risk on their farms and in their businesses. The tools include information and visuals to help farmers identify risk factors and risk management within each of the five categories of risk as well as aquaculture crop insurance options currently available.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension provides small-business education for Maine people. Workshops and business management publications cover a variety of business-related topics, including: marketing, pricing, financial management, Internet marketing, record keeping, and customer service.

The business plan features include short & long-term budget projections & tracking, financial projection and analysis tools, monthly cash flow projections, costs of production analysis, profitability analysis, sensitivity analysis, and breakeven analysis. The production plan offers short & long-term production projections & tracking data-based growth projections, monthly sales planning & tracking, and a production calendar. If you are interested in setting up a business plan, please reach out to Christian at [email protected].

This first-of-its-kind Maine Aquaculture Industry Financial Benchmarking report presents results from the calculation of a series of benchmarks designed to serve as guidance for prospective Maine shellfish and seaweed producers for use in their business planning, as well as by lenders in the evaluation of loan applications.

Provides the essential skills, knowledge and confidence to survive potentially life-threatening situations using both classroom and hands on training in the use of lifesaving equipment.

A critical study that describes the growth potential for Maine's edible seaweed market over the next fifteen years. This report documents the size and nature of the business opportunity and identifies the requirements for sustainable growth.

Guidance on the five steps to form an LLC; chose a name, find a registered agent, file certificate of formation, create an operating agreement, and get an EIN.

In depth review of sea scallop biology, spat collection, nursery, grow out, gear, husbandry, site selection economic considerations and biotoxins/public health.

An overview of oyster production techniques including nursery and husbandry, common gear used, and oyster biology.

Kelp offers a promising way for fishermen to diversify their income streams in the lobster offseason, and it's also the newest seafood product GMRI verified under their Gulf of Maine Responsibly Harvested® label. The Gulf of Maine Responsibly Harvested® label is a promise that seafood hails from the clean, cool waters of the Gulf of Maine and the fishery or farm is managed in a way that contributes to the long-term health of the resource. The label empowers consumers to buy seafood they can feel good about.

Overview of how Pemaquid Mussel Farms reached their development goal of a 5 fold increase in production within 10 years to $15 million annually using new technology and business planning.

This report is based on the research priorities survey conducted in June 2019 of Maine’s aquaculture community and is compared with surveys from 2012 and 2016 to look at trends. There have been some changes in the prioritization of needs since 2016, but many of the same research, development, and education (R&D&E) needs persist and remain unaddressed. As expected, there are different R&D&E priorities for different aquaculture sectors.

Atlantic Captain’s Academy offers a variety of Coast Guard approved courses for Coast Guard captain’s license candidates.

The Maine Seaweed Council strives to protect the ecosystems of Maine’s marine algae and adhere to sustainable cultivation and harvest practices, promote the use of Maine seaweeds, educate the public, regulators, and elected officials, and provide a collaborative forum for its members.

Writing a strong business plan is important for any company as it provides a roadmap to success. The most important reason for writing a solid business plan is that it demonstrates to investors, financial institutions, and other lenders that you have a cohesive vision for your company.

This report assesses the potential market environment for Maine farm-raised sea scallops including political, economic, social, technological, environmental, legal/regulatory, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

A data-driven, quantitative market assessment that informs industry leaders and business owners about the potential scale and scope of markets for farmed shellfish and to facilitate strategic growth in the industry.

Reviews the keys to running a successful business; the four P's of marketing, wholesale distributors, risks, and sales.

A study the researched and inventoried the seasonality, sources, and market utilization of locally produced seafood within the state and help educate food consumers at many different levels about the opportunities for gaining access to Maine seafood.

This video is narrated by Dana Morse and reviews how to collect sea scallop spat and grow your seed in bottom cages.

Covers the basic elements of a longline system, including materials, construction, installation and maintenance.

An in-depth guide on kelp farming including how to set up a farm, the application process, nursery set-up, maintaining cultures, and farm site operations.