California state and federal managers are using NOAA information and tools to develop environmentally sustainable offshore finfish aquaculture in the Southern California Bight - an industry with the potential to generate $1 billion annually. NOAA's assistance with coastal planning, models of environmental interactions and effects, and siting is helping the state address concernsover environmental impacts that have inhibited offshore aquaculture ventures.

This week NOAA participated ina workshop at the Aquarium of the Pacific that sought to identify and address development conflicts, increase awareness of the benefits of marine aquaculture, and inform outreach and education. Partners included NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, NOAA Fisheries's West Coast Regional Office, California Sea Grant, Aquarium of the Pacific, and Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute.

For more information, contact James.Morris@noaa.gov.