Project Number: 5358-63000-001-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Apr 29, 2003
End Date: Apr 30, 2005

Objective:
There are increasing demands for compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations that are concerned with the impact of shellfish production on estuarine and marine environments. The economic vitality of the Pacific Shellfish industry depends on the development of practices that reduce the cost of production and minimize the impact of production on the environment. Objectives will be to develop shellfish culture, pest/predator control and harvest methods compatible with environmentally friendly and sustainable shellfish production.

Approach:
Conduct research in marine/estuarine ecology to develop new and sustainable approaches to controlling pests and predators such as burrowing shrimp, spartina, crab, drills and diving ducks. Using a systems approach, examine key management practices and their impacts on ecological components of complex, dynamic estuarine environments. Establish a clear understanding of the ecology and biology of key pests and predators that impact reproduction, survival and overall population dynamics. Identify and evaluate potential biological control agents for efficacy in an integrated pest management system. Develop a multidisciplinary approach in collaboration with ARS, Oregon State University, and EPA scientists located at the Hatfield Marine Sciences Center, Newport, OR, and elsewhere as needed. Work with outreach and extension personnel/groups to transfer technology to growers. FY03 Program Increase $223,537. 1 SY. FY04 Program Increase $120,783.

Project Team

Banowetz, Gary Camara, Mark

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003

Related National Programs

Aquaculture (106)