About the presentation: Aquaculture now supplies most of the world’s seafood (57%), yet the U.S. remains heavily reliant on imports, producing only 11% of its seafood through aquaculture and carrying a $24.2 billion seafood trade deficit (FAO 2024; NMFS 2024). Freshwater aquaculture—primarily catfish, crawfish, and trout—generated $872 million in 2022, and recent analysis shows U.S. aquaculture contributes $4 billion annually in production with several‑fold broader economic impacts (Kumar et al. 2024). Despite this national significance, aquaculture for food remains underdeveloped in the Great Lakes region, where research and management have long centered on recreational fisheries.

This seminar will connect national and regional perspectives on U.S. aquaculture growth. Mrs. Kristine Cherry (Chief, Regulatory and Policy Branch, Office of Aquaculture, NOAA Fisheries) will provide a brief overview of the direction U.S. aquaculture has taken in recent years, describing new policy initiatives and research investments that are working to foster sustainable U.S. aquaculture development at the national level. Dr. Stigers will present on several key initiatives that have been fundamental for supporting aquaculture in the Great Lakes region. Her initiatives include many collaborative projects focusing mainly on Great Lakes’ (1) governance and sustainability of seafood systems, and (2) consumer education and aquaculture literacy.

About the speaker: Dr. Lauren Stigers is a Michigan Sea Grant Extension Educator based in the Houghton–Hancock area of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She specializes in aquaculture, commercial fisheries, seafood processing, and science‑based outreach, connecting industry needs with research, education, and community priorities. With a background spanning applied research, workforce development, and policy communication, Dr. Stigers leads collaborative initiatives that strengthen Great Lakes seafood systems, support working waterfronts, and advance sustainable aquaculture across Michigan.

Following the seminar, please join us for a Great Lakes Seafood Tasting. Experience Michigan fresh fish from local producers and gain insights through first hand interactions with industry professionals. Please be aware of allergies when signing up for the seafood tasting.

Space is limited, so RSVP today!