UpDate - Vol. 11, No. 8, Page 11
October 24, 1991
New Lewes center to support aquaculture industries

     A new Delaware Aquaculture Resource Center has been
established at the University's College of Marine Studies complex
in Lewes. The center will make it easier for interested
aquaculturists to gain access to the diverse resources becoming
available in this burgeoning industry.
     The center was dedicated Oct. 6 during Coast Day activities.
Delaware Lt. Gov. Dale Wolf, who chaired a task force that examined
the feasibility of establishing an aquaculture industry in
Delaware, was on hand for the ribbon cutting, and he was assisted
by Carolyn Thoroughgood, dean of the College of Marine Studies, and
University President David P. Roselle.
     Also participating in the dedication was William B. Chandler
Jr., state secretary of the state's Department of Agriculture,
which funded the  center with a $15,000 grant.
     According to Chandler, "The Department of Agriculture is
pleased to have provided funding support to the University of
Delaware for the development of an Aquaculture Resource Center.
Aquaculture holds promise for Delaware. The resource center will
help interested Delawareans learn more about farming fish and
aquatic plants."
     The day-to-day operations of the center will be directed by
John Ewart, aquaculture specialist in the University's Sea Grant
Marine Advisory Service.
     Kent Price, associate professor of marine
biology-biochemistry, has resigned his position as associate dean
to lead the college's research efforts in aquaculture.
     "Assisting in directing the college's research and education
activities over the past three years has been very rewarding,"
Price said. "However, the college and the state of Delaware
recently declared aquaculture a special initiative, and I have had
substantial experience in aquaculture. Given my background and
experience, I felt I could better serve the college by pursuing
this high-priority initiative for Delaware."
     In a final report in 1990, the Delaware Aquaculture Task
Force, appointed by Gov. Michael N. Castle, recommended that
Delaware develop a comprehensive program to promote and support
growth on an aquaculture industry.
     The Delaware Aquaculture Resource Center, which serves as a
clearinghouse for information on aquaculture will house printed
materials, videotapes and technical reports and newsletters. It is
located in 202A Cannon Laboratory and is open to the public.
     For information, call 645-4060.