In June 2023, NOAA announced the beginning of the process to identify Aquaculture Opportunity Areas (AOAs) in Alaska state waters, in partnership with the State of Alaska. In March 2024, 10 study areas were selected for further analysis, using a series of public engagement approaches including a Request for Information published in the Federal Register (88 FR 72046; October 19, 2023) and one-on-one meetings with partners and local, state, federal, and tribal governments.
A preliminary mapping and modelling study was conducted to identify draft AOA Options within these 10 study areas, located in the state waters of Southeast, Southcentral, and Southwest Alaska. The study is the result of a collaborative effort between NCCOS, NOAA Fisheries, and the State of Alaska.
Results of the preliminary spatial planning study and the draft AOA Options are now available for public review and comment. During the 30-day comment period, NOAA is seeking information regarding site conditions, feasibility, and historic or current activities within or around the Alaska Draft AOA Options. Comments must be submitted by May 23, 2025. View more information on the Notice of Availability Alaska Draft AOA Options.
Read the study, and check out the Alaska AOA WebMapper to interactively explore the data, apply filters, and visualize specific areas of interest.
AOAs are defined geographic areas evaluated through both spatial analysis and environmental review processes. They may be environmentally, socially, and economically appropriate to support multiple commercial aquaculture operations. In Alaska, the effort to identify AOAs is focused in state waters and only considers shellfish and seaweed farming. NOAA Fisheries will not consider finfish aquaculture during identification of AOAs in Alaska because it is prohibited by state law.
NOAA has directives to preserve ocean sustainability and facilitate domestic aquaculture in the U.S. through the National Aquaculture Act of 1980, the NOAA Marine Aquaculture Policy, and Executive Order 13921, “Promoting American Seafood Competitiveness and Economic Growth” (May 7, 2020).