DEVELOPING MARKETS FOR IMTA GROWN SEA VEGETABLES

Saccharina latissima and Alaria esculenta are two species of cold water kelps that are being grown as part of New Hampshire Sea Grant's Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture project in New Castle, NH.  With the increasing consumer interest in seaweeeds/ sea vegetables for their inherent health benefits we have been developing workshops and partnerships with local restaurants and breweries to develop viable markets for the product in New Hampshire.  Additionally, with the precarious nature of New England's iconic groundfish fisheries, we are also working to aid local fishermen to pursue seaweed aquaculture and or IMTA as alternative revenue streams.

We have observed an increase in awareness and interest regarding many aspects of these seaweeds from the health benefits, to the ecology to the use of sea vegetables in every day diets, based on our efforts through "learn and dine" workshops at local restaurants, foraging and identification workshops and presentations to local elementary and middle schools and other K-6 groups.  Our recent efforts with local breweries to make sugar kelp beer has also

Brought to light the need for seaweeds in other aspects of brewing other than just flavor.  With our continuing outreach efforts and development of partnerships in the food and beverage industry, we hope to develop a stable sustainable market for locally grown seaweeds for future seaweed farmers in the state.