Project Overview

The Sustainable Aquaculture Systems Supporting Atlantic Salmon (SAS²) project is part of a USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) program. This project aims to reduce the United States’ reliance on seafood imports by expanding domestic finfish production. In 2021, the SAS² project was selected by USDA-NIFA and awarded $10 million to lead research and development of Atlantic salmon land-based aquaculture in the United States. Land-based aquaculture uses self-contained recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) technology to grow fish, but the RAS industry faces several hurdles that present challenges in scaling up production. This project focuses on Atlantic salmon because this species is a highly desired seafood commodity, second only to shrimp among American consumers. The U.S. seafood deficit is substantial, with approximately 95% of Atlantic salmon consumed in the country coming from overseas at a value of $3.6 billion.

So, how does SAS² help to pave the way for sustainable seafood development? The project is working on 17 objectives, each addressing a challenge identified by industry leaders. Together, industry and academic institutes are collaborating on innovative solutions with help and support from government agencies. For example, the salmon industry relies on European egg imports because a national broodstock program is not yet in place. If SAS² helps develop procedures and technologies that support domestic egg production, the industry will have access to a more reliable and bio-secure egg source with a smaller environmental footprint. 

What are the other objectives? Our efforts are split between research, education, and outreach. Two-thirds of SAS² is dedicated to research, with the remaining third split between education, workforce development, extension, and community engagement. 

For those interested in the leadership behind these efforts, a drop-down menu at the bottom of this page introduces key SAS² personnel. For a comprehensive overview of our 17 objectives and the full team dedicated to advancing sustainable salmon aquaculture, please click here.