��������

With the eeBLUE Aquaculture Literacy Mini-Grant program, �������� is driving significant change for a second time! We are supporting partnerships with the common goal of aquaculture literacy set by the , the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), and the National Sea Grant Office. The nine mini-grants awarded will provide more than just financial support; they catalyze innovative educational experiences focused on aquaculture topics and promote public aquaculture literacy in eight states. These grants empower nonformal learning institutions (like aquariums), the aquaculture industry (such as shellfish, finfish, and seaweed farmers), and NOAA partners to make a tangible impact on our understanding of aquaculture. From "Agriculture in Aquaculture” to "Empowering Ocean Stewards," these grantees are helping to support a blue planet!

What is Aquaculture?

Aquaculture is the practice of raising and harvesting of animals and plants in all kinds of aquatic settings. It plays a key role in sustaining U.S. seafood production while also creating stable, year-round jobs. It also contributes significantly to restoring habitats, supporting protected species, and strengthening coastal resilience.

February 2025: "" by Lexi Doudera, founder and executive director at Saltwater Classroom
This immersive blog post takes us right to the water as the Saltwater Classroom crew film a behind-the-scenes look at a Maine oyster farm and the science behind oyster anatomy and restoration. These lessons will become part of the Online Ocean Literacy Platform, making aquaculture education more accessible than ever.

March 2025: "" by Nina E. Ferry Montanile, education and outreach manager at Martha’s Vineyard Shellfish Group, Inc.
Martha's Vineyard Shellfish Group, Inc. connects youth with marine science through hands-on learning with support from an eeBLUE Aquaculture Literacy Mini-Grant. From shucking oysters to community programs, MVSG is cultivating the next generation of environmental stewards. 

May 2025: "" by Lisa and Mark Tagal at
From tide to table to trophies—students turned sablefish into success. In our latest Harvest Stories, dive into the full story to see how education and seafood flavor come together in one unforgettable project.

June 2025: "" by Claire Filaski, marketing communications coordinator at the South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium Teen Conservation Crew is empowering high school students to tackle climate change through hands-on conservation and aquaculture education. Supported by the eeBLUE Aquaculture Literacy Mini-Grants Program, crewmates explored oyster farming’s ecological benefits firsthand, gaining insight into sustainable seafood practices while deepening their connection to the coastal environment.

July 2025: "" by Jane Harrison, Ph.D., coastal economics specialist at NC Sea Grant
North Carolina Oyster Month is coming! From community storytelling to hands-on learning, aquaculture is equipping educators with the skills to lead in classrooms and in conversations across their communities. 

August 2025: "" by Emily Whitmore, associate director at Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center
What if your next seafood recipe came with the story of how it was grown? Supported by the eeBLUE Aquaculture Literacy Mini-Grants Program, Farmers MAI-Kit blends farm tours, cooking demos, and conversations with farmers into one tasty way to learn about aquaculture.

September 2025: "" by Leah Biery, executive director of education at Tampa Bay Watch
Back-to-back hurricanes delayed the launch of a new educational exhibit for one eeBLUE grantee. But through it all, the team’s resilience stands out. Their story is a reminder that real progress isn’t just about milestones—it’s about weathering the setbacks together.