The Shell-ebration takes place from 10:00 am – 3:30 pm at Downeast Institute, 39 Wildflower Lane, in Beals, Maine. The event is free and open to the public and will take place rain or shine.
This event promises hands-on gear demonstrations from leading species experts and the chance to taste-test a variety of Maine aquaculture products, including oysters and the unique gold mussel strain developed at Downeast Institute. Participants will explore the latest advancements in shellfish farming techniques and discover the economic potential of aquaculture in the region.
There will be fun for all ages with a touch tank and family-friendly activities! The Downeast Institute has a large touch tank featuring fish and shellfish found in Washington County, providing an opportunity to learn how aquaculture and wild animals interact.
Supported by the Northern Border Regional Commission, Maine Technology Institute, the Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center, Maine Center for Entrepreneurs, and the Maine Department of Economic & Community Development, this event is part of a broader initiative aimed at strengthening aquaculture business and workforce development, in partnership with the Sunrise County Economic Council, Cooke Aquaculture, and the Maine Aquaculture Association.
“Communities and fishermen naturally have many questions about the different types of aquaculture practiced in Maine, and the opportunities for aquaculture in Washington County,” says Dr. Anne Langston Noll, Executive Director of the Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center. “Community events such as this provide an opportunity for answering questions about aquaculture and how to get started, showcasing existing farmers and their products, and connecting “aquaculture-curious” individuals to local and state-wide people, organizations, and resources.”
The day will highlight four emerging aquaculture shellfish species that have the potential to thrive in Washington County’s cold, clean waters – sea scallops, mussels, soft-shell clams, and sea urchins. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from species experts on the best farming methods for each species and participate in gear demonstrations. Species breakouts will be repeated in the afternoon so participants can learn about two featured species.
“Small-scale aquaculture presents entrepreneurs an opportunity to produce sustainable protein from the cold clean waters of eastern Maine to diversify their household incomes and strengthen our local food systems,” says Kyle Pepperman, Associate Director of the Downeast Institute.
Come early to connect with sea farmers in the Downeast region over “Coffee with a Farmer” and learn about their experiences (and top tips!) building an aquaculture business and/or working on the water.
Event Agenda:
- 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Sign-In & Coffee with a Farmer
- 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Species Breakouts – Overview of Farming Techniques, Gear Demonstrations
- Sea Scallops
- Urchins
- Clams
- Mussels
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Tour of Downeast Institute’s Shellfish Hatchery, including Farm Tours and Lobster Pound Tours
- 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Taste Test Maine Aquaculture Products & Learn About Aquaculture Training Programs
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Tour of Downeast Institute’s Shellfish Hatchery, including Farm Tours and Lobster Pound Tours
- 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Species Breakouts – Overview of Farming Techniques, Gear Demonstrations
- Sea Scallops
- Urchins
- Clams
- Mussels
For more information, contact Downeast Institute at 207-259-5048 or info@downeastinstitute.org
