Aquaculture in CT!
Typically, when we think of the mouth-watering, salty delicacies like oysters, clams, mussels, we envision the summer months down by the beach. While shellfish are often times eaten during the summer months, one big misconception is that this is the only time they are in season. Well, think again! Shellfish are one of the various protein options in Connecticut that is available year round, and today…
We’re here to tell you about the aquaculture here in the great state of Connecticut!
But What is Aquaculture?!
The Connecticut Department of Agriculture, from Connecticut’s Official State Website, defines aquaculture as “the cultivation of aquatic plants and animals.” Whether farms are growing shellfish on underwater leases in Long Island Sound, or raising fish in freshwater tank farms, aquaculture continues to be the fastest growing food production system in the world.
We reference CT Grown’s blog about aquaculture in the information following.
Shellfish
Shellfish are a huge staple in Connecticut aquaculture. Some of the options you can find along the coastline include: oysters, clams, bay scallops, mussels, and edible snails like conch and whelks.
Some fun facts about the impact shellfish have had on Connecticut’s economy:
Connecticut’s shellfish industry has 50 farms and 28 wholesale distributors
The shellfish industry supports more than 300 jobs in the state
Shellfish sales to consumers generate about $30 million each year
Nearly 10,000 people apply for recreational shellfish permits each year, supporting Connecticut towns with about $100,000 in revenue
Not only are shellfish a tasty source of food, but they are also so good for the marine environment! Shellfish help improve the water quality and can form reefs that provide habitats for other creatures.
You can find delicious shellfish options anywhere from small clam shacks to upscale seafood restaurants. Click here to find out more about your local oyster options!
Seaweed
You read that right, seaweed! Seaweed is becoming more and more popular on the CT Grown menu. Like shellfish, seaweed and kelp are also great for our environment due to their ability to help clean the water and sometimes can even be used as a fertilizer.
Not sure what to do with seaweed? CT Grown linked a great resource in their blog to a Seaweed Week Cookbook! Check it out here.
Let’s celebrate these aquaculture farms in Connecticut throughout the entire year! Here is a list of some of the many you’ll find down by the shore in Connecticut.
Indian River Shellfish: Long Island Sound
Niantic Bay Shellfish Farm: Niantic
Thimble Island Ocean Farm: Long Island Sound
Stonington Farms Shellfish: Mystic
Copps Island Oysters: Norwalk
