New Hampshire Sea Grant Helps Chart the Future of the State’s Seafood Industry
New Hampshire’s seafood industry plays a vital role in the state’s economy, identity, and food system. However, like many other industries, it faces numerous challenges, from regulatory hurdles to infrastructure limitations and workforce shortages. Recognizing the need for a strategic approach to sustain and grow the industry, New Hampshire Sea Grant (NHSG) staff members Gabriela Bradt and Lindsey Williams contributed to the recently published New Hampshire Food and Agriculture Strategic Plan, assisting in the development of the Seafood Brief (pg. 49) alongside oyster growers, fishermen and other fishing industry representatives.
The Seafood Brief, a key component of the strategic plan, outlines the current conditions, challenges, and opportunities facing New Hampshire’s seafood industry. According to the plan, the seafood economy in the state generates over 3,083 jobs and $170.7 million in sales, but the industry remains at risk due to factors such as aging infrastructure, regulatory complexities, and environmental challenges. The Seafood Brief emphasizes the importance of marketing, government engagement, infrastructure development, and industry coordination to sustain local fisheries and aquaculture.
NHSG’s involvement in the strategic planning process, led by the NH Food Alliance, reflects a long-standing commitment to supporting the state’s coastal and marine industries through research, outreach, and collaboration. As a key resource for New Hampshire’s seafood sector, NHSG has worked closely with commercial fishermen, aquaculturists, processors and businesses to identify strategies that ensure long-term viability.
“It was a privilege to serve as lead author for the Seafood Brief, and to hear from and collaborate with members of the industry who are so passionate about their work and sector. Their critical insights and input were instrumental in shaping the brief and its recommendations for their industry,” said Gabriela Bradt, Extension State Specialist in Fisheries and Aquaculture with NH Sea Grant and UNH Extension.
Lindsey Williams, NHSG’s Associate Director and a contributing author, emphasized the importance of seafood for the Granite State. “This new strategic plan helps further underscore and situate seafood squarely within our food systems here in New Hampshire. The plan and associated recommendations help to provide decision makers with key information as they consider the future of seafood and the broader food system in our state,” she said.
Key recommendations from the Seafood Brief include:
- Appointing a state seafood industry liaison to help seafood producers to access regulatory information.
- Advocating for industry representation in coastal development decisions.
- Launching a marketing campaign to boost consumer demand for local seafood.
- Securing state funding for infrastructure improvements.
- Funding industry-supported research.
NHSG’s contributions to the strategic plan align with its broader mission to sustain and enhance New Hampshire’s coastal communities, economies, and ecosystems. As the state moves forward with implementing the plan’s recommendations, NHSG will continue to play an active role in supporting a strong and sustainable seafood industry.
Read the full New Hampshire Food and Agriculture Strategic Plan:
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