Aquaculture Conference Slated for November 17

10-10-2016 in Aquaculture

Experts to share opportunities and strategies for entering into fish farming

WEST DES MOINES, IOWA – October 10, 2016 – The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) is hosting the 2016 Aquaculture Conference on November 17 to provide farmers information about Iowa’s newest livestock industry. The event, co-sponsored by Iowa State University and the North Central Regional Aquaculture Center, will be held at the Quality Inn & Suites in Ames from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

“Aquaculture is a way for farmers to diversify and grow, especially at a time when commodity prices are low and land costs are still relatively high,” said CSIF’s Executive Director Brian Waddingham. “We’re seeing an increase in calls from farmers interested in aquaculture. One farmer, for example, wanted to know how to retrofit an old hog barn to raise shrimp in, so he called on CSIF to discuss some options. It’s an exciting new industry with a lot of opportunity, but because it’s so new, it’s important to learn as much as possible before diving in. That’s the goal of this conference.”

The event will include a wide range of important topics for farmers to consider such as opportunities in aquaculture, the role of cooperatives, rules and regulations for fish farms, permits needed to buy and sell fish and shrimp, how to develop a business plan for your farm, how to structure your business, marketing, production systems, water chemistry, fish health and shrimp culture. There will also be a farmer panel that will share their experiences and offer their insights on aquaculture.

The CSIF Aquaculture conference includes a dynamic line-up of speakers such as Mike Naig, Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture; Bill Lynch, Millcreek Perch Farms; Bridget Owen, Soy Aquaculture Alliance; Andrew Ray, Kentucky State University; Brian Waddingham, Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers; Alan Johnson, Iowa DNR; Mark Speltz, Iowa Department of Inspection and Appeals; Jim Venner, Ag Visions; Tricia Janes, Small Business Development Center; Dan Burden, Allen Pattillo, David Starling and Joe Morris from Iowa State University.

Registration, including a complimentary lunch, is free if completed by November 11. A $20 fee will be charged for registrations after November 11. For more information and to register, visit www.supportfarmers.com or call 1-800-932-2436. Space is limited.

The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers was created by farmers to help farmers raise livestock successfully and responsibly. It’s a joint partnership involving the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Egg Council, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and Midwest Dairy Association.

The non-profit, non-partisan organization provides assistance to farmers at no cost. CSIF does not lobby or develop policy. Farm families wanting a helping hand can contact the coalition at 1-800-932-2436.

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