Alaska Sea Grant

Meet the new Alaska Sea Grant Shellfish Mariculture Specialist and Fellow
2024-10-17 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Anchorage) | Online
Meet the new Alaska Sea Grant Mariculture Specialist and Fellow on October 17, 2024, at 3pm.

Alaska Sea Grant has a growing team that delivers training, research, and extension to support new and existing ocean farmers in Alaska.

This webinar will introduce James Crimp and Rachel French, the new members of the mariculture team, give an update on recent and upcoming events, and then ask for your input on future needs through a short survey and discussion.

We are looking for feedback on potential future training and extension topics that could include but are not limited to:

Harmful algal bloom detection
Modernizing oyster cultivation equipment
Hatchery and nursery systems
New loans and grants for farms
Branding, marketing, and social media
Incorporating tourism into farming

Register now

Ammonia Refrigeration Assistant Operator 2 - 2024
2024-10-14 - 2024-10-18 | Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center, 118 Trident Way, Kodiak, AK, 99615, United States
The program focuses on equipment commonly found in Alaskan seafood processing operations, including plate freezers, ice machines, and refrigerated seawater heat exchangers. Workers will be trained for Alaska conditions, including the seasonal nature of the systems and facilities, typical maintenance periods, and running seasonal projects.

Smoked Seafood School — October 2024
2024-10-10 - 2024-10-11 | Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center, 118 Trident Way, Kodiak, AK, 99615, United States
The event has been moved up one week, to October 10–11. Contact the event coordinator below with questions or concerns.
9:00 am–4:00 pm Alaska Time, each day
This workshop is for anyone interested in smoking and processing fish, including home fish-smoking enthusiasts, small smokehouse operators, fishermen interested in direct marketing their fish, and commercial operators.
Seafood scientists at the Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center will lead lectures and hands-on activities that include the principles of fish smoking, modern smoke oven operation, safety of smoked products, brining, cold smoking, hot-smoking, salmon jerky production and preparation of fish sausage.
Seminar will include live discussion and presentations from manufacturer representatives of food processing equipment.
Maximum workshop capacity is 20 participants. Participants will receive a certificate upon completion.
This workshop is free for Kodiak Island Borough residents, made possible with funding from the Kodiak Island Borough. (Kodiak Island Borough residents use registration code KB24 during checkout.)

Register for the course

Instructor: Chris Sannito, Seafood Technology Specialist
Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program
Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center
Chris has taught Alaska Seafood School courses in seafood processing and safety since 2015. He helps businesses develop new products, and has worked extensively in quality assurance for seafood processors.

Instructor: John Springer, Northwest Territory Manager
Handtmann, Inc.
John spent more than 11 years working for Enviro-Pak Smokeoven Company, designing innovative and successful smoke generators tailored for the commercial smoking industry, and traveling around the world to teach the mechanics, performance nuances, and artistry of smoking. For over a decade, he has helped educate smoking enthusiasts and professionals at the Alaska Sea Grant Smoked Seafood School.

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Alaska Marine Policy Forum – September 2024
2024-09-18 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
Join us for the Alaska Marine Policy Forum, sponsored by Alaska Sea Grant and Alaska Ocean Observing System. Every other month we host a one-hour meeting with participants across the state interested in marine policy in Alaska. Hear the latest about state and federal marine funding, legislation and policy issues.
Next call: Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 1 pm AK time (5 pm Eastern, 2 pm Pacific)
Please email Dawn Montano to be added to the announcement list.
If you would like to speak on the call or have ideas for topics, please email Ginny Eckert.
previous forum summaries
Use the button below to register and receive your personalized link to join the Zoom meeting. You will have the option to add this to your calendar.
Register for September Meeting

Seafood HACCP Segment 2 — September 2024
2024-09-13 09:00 - 16:00 | Zoom
Alaska Sea Grant offers Seafood HACCP Segment 2 practical training via online video conferencing, conducted at the specified time with a live instructor.
The class will cover the principles of HACCP and provide the tools and training to create a seafood HACCP plan. Students will need to register for and complete the Segment 1 training online prior to September 13, 2024, through the National Seafood HACCP Alliance for Training and Education. The Segment 1 training has a separate registration and fee.
You can register here for your Segment 2 training, using the button below, prior to completing Segment 1, but be sure to complete the Segment 1 training before the date of this Segment 2 training.
This course meets the requirement for HACCP Segment 2. Participants will attend this HACCP training live, using online video conferencing to complete the practical training session. The training will be conducted September 13, 2024, from 9 am to 4 pm.
All seafood processors in Alaska are required to have an approved Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan. This class prepares the participant to develop this plan. Class size is limited to 20 participants. A basic HACCP certificate issued by the Association of Food and Drug Officials is awarded upon completion of the class.
This workshop is free for Kodiak Island Borough residents, made possible with funding from the Kodiak Island Borough. (Kodiak Island Borough residents use registration code KB24 during checkout.)

Register for HACCP

Course instructor: Chris Sannito, Seafood Technology Specialist
Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program
Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Oyster Industry Knowledge Exchange Tour: Prince of Wales Island and Cordova to Homer, Alaska
2024-07-31 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us for a webinar and Q&A about a recent oyster industry knowledge exchange tour, where farmers from across Alaska came together to share techniques, insights, and knowledge. Oyster farmers from Cordova and Prince of Wales Island will discuss their trip and the valuable lessons they learned visiting oyster operations in Homer.
Join us at 11 am on July 31, with Alaska Sea Grant mariculture technician Arron Jones, and oyster farmers Katie Bode, Jimmy Greeley, Seawan Gehlbach and Eric Wyatt to learn more about their experience.
Webinar registration

Alaska Marine Policy Forum – July 2024
2024-07-17 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
Join us for the Alaska Marine Policy Forum, sponsored by Alaska Sea Grant and Alaska Ocean Observing System. Every other month we host a one-hour meeting with participants across the state interested in marine policy in Alaska. Hear the latest about state and federal marine funding, legislation and policy issues.
Next call: Wednesday, July 17, 2024, 1 pm AK time (5 pm Eastern, 2 pm Pacific)
Please email Dawn Montano to be added to the announcement list.
If you would like to speak on the call or have ideas for topics, please email Ginny Eckert.
previous forum summaries
Use the button below to register and receive your personalized link to join the Zoom meeting. You will have the option to add this to your calendar.
Register for July Meeting

Introduction to Outboard Engine Maintenance and Repair
2024-07-15 - 2024-07-16 | Generations Southeast – Prince of Wales campus, 6565 Boundary Rd, Klawock, AK, 99925, United States
This two-day introductory workshop will teach the basics of outboard engine theory and operation, and instruct on the diagnosis and repair of common problems associated with outboard engines. The workshop will be delivered using a combination of lecture, hands-on demonstrations, and practical exercises.
By the end of this training, students will have a basic knowledge of operation, diagnosis, and repair of outboard engines. Students will also understand the importance of safety, cleanliness, and quality of workmanship.
Register now

Insights from the Scottish seaweed industry tour
2024-07-11 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Join Alaska Sea Grant and Connecticut Sea Grant for a webinar featuring industry experts from Alaska and Connecticut sharing insights from their recent international seaweed infrastructure tour in Scotland.
Topics

Stabilization and processing methods — learn about UK techniques for stabilizing and processing kelp and their applicability to the US.
Product forms and end-products — discover diverse stabilized seaweed products and their market potential.
British guidelines and standards — understand UK standards for seaweed products and their implications for US farmers.
Food safety guidelines exchange — explore food safety guidelines from the US and UK and potential standardization.
Cost-effective Infrastructure — get practical advice on designing affordable, food-safe stabilization infrastructure.

Tour Highlights

Seaweed Enterprises Processing Facility
Scottish Association for Marine Sciences Seaweed Academy and Nursery
Oceanium in Oban
Southwest Mull and Iona Developments Seaweed Farm
EcoCascade in Kyle of Lochalsh

Resources

A review of the regulatory regime for seaweed harvesting and cultivation (PDF)
Facilitating development of the seaweed cultivation sector in Scotland—February 2022 (PDF)
Introduction to the Scottish Seaweed Industry Association (PDF)

AK On-Board Crewmember Training: Petersburg
2024-06-01 - 2024-06-03 | Petersburg, Alaska, Petersburg, AK, United States
8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Join us to learn beginning crew skills, marine safety, and more, and take advantage of the opportunity to talk with skippers.

The AK On-Board program is a series of regional hands-on training opportunities for beginning commercial fishermen. The program is led by Alaska Sea Grant, Alaska Marine Safety Education Association, Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association, Alaska Marine Conservation Council, and regional partners to help new crewmembers gain basic crew skills, learn about marine safety, network with prospective employers, and meet other people in the industry. This three-day workshop is regionally focused by our local planning committee and includes a mix of hands-on activities, lectures, discussion panels, and more.

Limited travel support up to $500 is available for rural Southeast Alaska residents. Contact sunny.rice@alaska.edu by May 24 to inquire.
Register for workshop

Alaska Seaweed Handling and Processing Workshop: Kelp Stabilization Demonstration
2024-05-23 09:00 - 16:00 | Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center, 118 Trident Way, Kodiak, AK, 99615, United States
Alaska Sea Grant and GreenWave invite kelp farmers, processors and industry members to apply to participate in a free one-day demonstration of primary processing and stabilization technology for raw kelp.
Fresh seaweed degrades rapidly after harvesting, inhibiting farmers and processors from bringing a quality product to market in sufficient quantity. To solve this problem, Alaska Sea Grant, GreenWave, Macro Oceans, Kodiak Archipelago Leadership Institute and Alaska Ocean Farms have partnered to develop an open-source primary processing line capable of stabilizing kelp at ambient temperature as close to the farm as possible. If successful, this technology could be deployed in rural communities across Alaska, allowing remote kelp farms to extend the shelf life of their product and secure access to markets.
The demonstration will cover the design and operation of a processing line built to transform whole, wet, freshly harvested kelp into an intermediate chopped format to allow for easier handling and stabilization via reagents, fermentation or drying. Macro Oceans will provide stabilization reagents to be homogenized with the chopped kelp, and the end product will then be shipped to Macro Oceans’ facility in California to be monitored for stability.
The results from this trial will be made public, and project partners will make the processing line design and operating parameters freely available for the benefit of all Alaskans, particularly rural and Indigenous communities.
Travel funding is available. Priority will be given to Alaska residents, members of rural and Indigenous communities, and active kelp farmers.
Applications must be received by February 29.
For questions, contact Melissa Good.
This demonstration is funded as part of an Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation Joint Innovation Grant. Project partners include Alaska Sea Grant, GreenWave, Macro Oceans, Kodiak Archipelago Leadership Institute, and Alaska Ocean Farms. Read the full project proposal here.
Approved applicants will be notified by March 7.
Go to application

Alaska Marine Policy Forum – May 2024
2024-05-15 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
Join us for the Alaska Marine Policy Forum, sponsored by Alaska Sea Grant and Alaska Ocean Observing System. Every other month we host a one-hour meeting with participants across the state interested in marine policy in Alaska. Hear the latest about state and federal marine funding, legislation and policy issues.
Next call: Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 1 pm AK time (5 pm Eastern, 2 pm Pacific)
Please email Dawn Montano to be added to the announcement list.
If you would like to speak on the call or have ideas for topics, please email Ginny Eckert.
previous forum summaries
Use the button below to register and receive your personalized link to join the Zoom meeting. You will have the option to add this to your calendar.
Register for May Meeting

Daak Ḵusteeyí 2024 — Our way of life by the sea
2024-05-08 - 2024-05-11 | Sitka, Alaska, Sitka, United States
Indigenous Aquaculture Collaborative Gathering
May 8–11, 2024
Sheet’Ká (Sitka), Alaska
If you are attending this event, please check out the Agenda, Frequently Asked Questions, Travel Guide, and Sitka Restaurants documents for helpful information.
Indigenous Aquaculture systems have existed for millennia, and continue to unite cultural practices and ecosystems, as well as deepen place-based food connections. Join our hosts, Sitka Tribe of Alaska and Central Council Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, on Lingít Aaní, where we will gather and connect on the shores of Sheet’Ká, the traditional territory of Sheet’Ká Kwáan. This event is open to all Tribal members, First Nations and Native communities, as well as members of the Indigenous Aquaculture Collaborative Network.
Indigenous Aquaculture refers to biocultural systems of management found in coastal places by Native communities. These cultivated ecosystems are based on Indigenous knowledge and place-based observations of the land and water. These systems strengthen community access to traditional and customary foods and increase local seafood production. They serve to deepen relationships and create solutions for climate adaptation and coastal restoration.
We are a collaborative network of Pacific-region Sea Grant programs; Northwest Tribes and First Nations, Native Hawaiian and Indigenous communities; and organizations and universities working as a community of practice to advance Indigenous Aquaculture. We integrate community engagement, restoration, applied research, and education to share experiences, knowledge, and strategies that enhance local and cultural seafood production in the broader Pacific region. The focal knowledge, practices, and relationships of our network are part of deep heritages that are rooted in local bays, inlets, watersheds, and islands. While these cultural ecosystems have been here for a very long time, our collaborative cross-Pacific network started in 2019, building upon our existing relationships. As a network, we share the living traditions from our unique places to develop cross-cultural learning and support collective efforts.
Registration
Due to the overwhelming response, we have reached the registration limit for this event. We are currently compiling a waiting list for those still interested in participating. If you have registered but are now unable to attend in person, or if your plans change at any point before the event, please let us know by emailing Ashley Dunker. This will allow us to offer your spot to others in need.
Event information
The agenda is in progress and will be shared here when available. Events will begin with a welcome dinner on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, starting at 5 pm, and conclude with a farewell dinner on May 10. Breakfast will be provided at the Sitka Fine Arts Camp cafeteria on Saturday, May 11.
Daak Kusteeyí will feature opportunities to share stories and foods from all of our communities. Please consider bringing a sample of culturally important foods and/or stories from your community to share at the gathering. Daak Kusteeyí will have nearly 150 people, but please bring what you can in any amount. We imagine a gathering where everyone won’t try everything, but everyone will be able to try something. These foods and stories are excellent gifts in substitution of gifts for the hosting Tribes. Please email Lindsey Pierce with any questions.
Lodging
The deadline for booking in reserved room blocks for this event has passed. If you have any questions about lodging, please email Ashley Dunker.
Option 1: Dorm lodging at Sitka Fine Arts Camp for $93/night for a double-occupancy room (includes taxes and fees) can be reserved and paid for as part of your online registration for the gathering. The cost is per room, and if sharing, only one individual in a room should add this to their registration. All rooms have 2 twin beds, 2 desks, 2 chairs, and 2 dressers. Each floor shares two bathrooms (accessible bathrooms are available). Bed linens and towels are provided, but not toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.).
Option 2: A discounted room block at the Westmark Sitka is available, for a limited time or until filled, for $149/night single/double plus room taxes and fees, by calling (907) 747-6241 or 1-800-544-0970 and mentioning the group name “Indigenous Aquaculture Collaborative.”
Option 3: If you would prefer not to stay at either of these locations, VisitSitka provides a variety of suggestions.
Meals
All meals are provided for registrants, starting with dinner on March 8 through breakfast on March 11. Breakfasts and lunches will be served at the Sitka Fine Arts Camp cafeteria, and dinners will be catered. Please indicate any dietary restrictions during registration.
Transportation in Sitka
The Westmark Sitka provides airport transportation for guests. We will provide airport transportation for those staying at the Sitka Fine Arts Camp. Most events will be held at locations throughout a convenient, walkable downtown. Transportation will be provided to remote events, and in town for those that request accessibility support during registration. Note: Sitka does not have Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare.
Register for IAC
If you have questions, please contact the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (Tlingit & Haida) at environmental@tlingitandhaida.gov.
We look forward to spending time in the intertidal with you.

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Smoked Seafood School — Kodiak Island Borough residents — May 2024
2024-05-02 - 2024-05-03 | Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center, 118 Trident Way, Kodiak, AK, 99615, United States
9:00 am–4:00 pm Alaska Time, each day
This workshop is for Kodiak Island Borough residents interested in smoking and processing fish, including home fish-smoking enthusiasts, small smokehouse operators, fishermen interested in direct marketing their fish, and commercial operators.
Seafood scientists at the Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center will lead lectures and hands-on activities that include the principles of fish smoking, modern smoke oven operation, safety of smoked products, brining, cold smoking, hot-smoking, salmon jerky production and preparation of fish sausage.
The class is limited to 20 participants. The workshop is $310, free for Kodiak Island Borough residents, made possible with funding from the Kodiak Island Borough.
(Kodiak Island Borough residents use code KIB24 during checkout.)

Register for the course

Course instructor: Chris Sannito, Seafood Technology Specialist
Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program
Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Sanitation Control Procedures for Seafood Processors — 2024
2024-04-26 08:30 - 16:30 | Zoom
Seafood processors are required to monitor sanitary control procedures used during processing, to document conformance with proper sanitary conditions and practices. This one-day Sanitation Control Procedures for Seafood Processors online workshop teaches people in the seafood industry how to develop and implement FDA-mandated sanitation control procedures, covering the basic eight points of sanitation and documentation requirements.
The workshop includes demonstrations of using test kits to monitor common sanitizer residuals.
Register for workshop
Prior to the event you will receive e-mailed instructions for attending the workshop.

Course instructor: Chris Sannito, Seafood Technology Specialist
Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program
Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Business of Fishing workshop - Cordova April 2024
2024-04-25 09:00 - 17:00 | The Cordova Center, 601 1st Street, Cordova, AK, 99574, United States
The Alaska Sea Grant Business of Fishing workshop is a one-day class offering commercial fishing business training in coastal communities around the state. It is designed for boat owners, permit holders and fishermen looking to improve their business management skills.
The workshop will be held in Cordova on April 25 from 9:00–5:00 at the Cordova Center. Advance registration is required and lunch is provided. Each class is limited to 25 participants.
The workshop covers a range of topics in business and finance important for fishing operations, including tax strategy and organization, business and financial planning, and risk management. This workshop will include an introduction to direct marketing and direct marketing regulations.
This training grew out of the success of the Alaska Young Fishermen’s Summit (AYFS) business session. The Business of Fishing workshop expands on the AYFS training and brings it directly to fishermen in their hometowns.
This workshop is made possible with financial support from AgWest Farm Credit.
Register now

Kodiak Area Marine Science Symposium 2024
2024-04-23 - 2024-04-26 | Kodiak Marketplace, 111 West Rezanof Drive, Kodiak, AK, 99615, United States
We are excited to announce that the Kodiak Area Marine Science Symposium (KAMSS), held every three years, returns this spring. KAMSS 2024 is our fifth regional symposium, bringing together the Kodiak community and scientists to discuss important marine science and research impacting our well-being. We are pleased to meet in person again at the new Kodiak Marketplace.

AK On-Board Crewmember Training: Sitka
2024-04-20 - 2024-04-22 | Harrigan Centennial Hall, 330 Harbor Drive, Sitka, AK, 99835, United States
8:30 am – 5 pm each day
The AK On-Board program is a series of regional hands-on training opportunities for beginning commercial fishermen. The program is led by Alaska Sea Grant, Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association, Alaska Marine Conservation Council, Alaska Marine Safety Education Association, and regional partners to help new crewmembers gain basic crew skills, learn about marine safety, network with prospective employers, and meet other people in the industry. This three-day event is regionally focused by our local planning committees, and includes a mix of hands-on activities, lectures, discussion panels, and events.
Join us to learn about beginning crew skills, marine safety, and more, and take advantage of the opportunity to talk with skippers.
Register for workshop

2024 Wakefield Fisheries Symposium
2024-04-16 - 2024-04-18 | Sitka, Alaska, Sitka, United States
The 2024 Wakefield Fisheries Symposium will bring together fishery researchers and managers to address how political decisions, jurisdictional arrangements, and survey management structures can adapt to environmental changes and shifting species distributions. Participants worldwide are invited to share case studies and contrast approaches in different regions. Discussions will be forward-looking and solutions-focused.

Seafood HACCP Segment 2 — April 2024
2024-04-12 09:00 - 16:00 | Zoom
Alaska Sea Grant offers Seafood HACCP Segment 2 practical training via online video conferencing, conducted at the specified time with a live instructor.
The class will cover the principles of HACCP and provide the tools and training to create a seafood HACCP plan. Students will need to register for and complete the Segment 1 training online prior to April 12, 2024, through the National Seafood HACCP Alliance for Training and Education. The Segment 1 training has a separate registration and fee.
You can register here for your Segment 2 training, using the button below, prior to completing Segment 1, but be sure to complete the Segment 1 training before the date of this Segment 2 training.
This course meets the requirement for HACCP Segment 2. Participants will attend this HACCP training live, using online video conferencing to complete the practical training session. The training will be conducted April 12, 2024, from 9 am to 4 pm.
All seafood processors in Alaska are required to have an approved Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan. This class prepares the participant to develop this plan. Class size is limited to 20 participants. A basic HACCP certificate issued by the Association of Food and Drug Officials is awarded upon completion of the class.
Register for HACCP

Course instructor: Chris Sannito, Seafood Technology Specialist
Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program
Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

2024 Western Alaska Interdisciplinary Science Conference
2024-04-02 - 2024-04-04
Save the date!
The Western Alaska Interdisciplinary Science Conference (WAISC) brings together people invested in sharing information important to rural communities in Western Alaska. We do this through Western Alaska knowledge and science.
WAISC in 2024 will be held in Nome at the UAF Northwest Campus, and is co-chaired by UAF Alaska Sea Grant and UAF Northwest Campus. For more information, please contact Claudia Ihl or Gay Sheffield.
View past WAISC conferences

Alaska Seaweed Genetics Workshop
2024-04-01 - 2024-04-02 | Centennial Hall Convention Center, 101 Egan Drive, Juneau, AK, 99801, United States
The 2024 Alaska Seaweed Genetics Workshop presentation slides are now linked in agenda. (Please note, not all slides are available.)
On behalf of Alaska Sea Grant, the Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation, and the Alaska Mariculture Research and Training Center, we would like to invite you to the Alaska Seaweed Genetics Workshop in Juneau, Alaska, April 1–2. Be a part of the conversation among scientists and the mariculture industry as we illuminate areas of research to support the sustainable management of seaweed aquaculture.
As a precaution to protect genetic diversity in seaweed populations, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game has created the 50–50 Rule for the state of Alaska that mandates that collected sorus tissue for mariculture operations must be collected from more than 50 parent individuals from within 50 km of the outplanting site. With these rules in place and only a few kelp hatcheries in the state, it can be temporally and economically costly to grow seaweed in Alaska. Fifty kilometers is small when Alaska has roughly 76,000 kilometers of coastline—more than California, Oregon, and Washington combined. Alaska has received significant funding to grow from a $1 million to a $100 million industry in the next 20 years, so how do we move forward while still preserving genetic diversity?
Our goal is to facilitate a conversation with scientists and managers inside and outside Alaska to learn how other regions address these challenges. We hope to synthesize the state of knowledge to inform management practices that can support industry growth without harming wild stocks.
The conference will be held at the Centennial Hall and Convention Center in Juneau, Alaska. The Baranof by Best Western Downtown Juneau has kindly provided a discounted room rate for the days of the workshop. Please use the link below to reserve your room. The last day to book with the link to guarantee this group rate is March 1, 2024.
https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.02019.html?groupId=2Z6VV2C8
Note to event speakers, presenters and panelists: The event sessions on April 1–2 may be recorded and shared online to educate those unable to attend.
Registration
The registration fee for the Alaska Seaweed Genetics Workshop is $50. The fee is waived for students, speakers, and current Alaskan farmers/processor, by entering the registration code SGW24. (Registration deadline is Tuesday, March 26, 2024.)
Agenda (link to pdf) Abstracts (link to pdf)

Contact
Alaska Seaweed Genetics Workshop: contact Jessica Whitney
Alaska Sea Grant Mariculture Specialist: contact Melissa Good
Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation: contact Hannah Wilson

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Alaska Marine Policy Forum – March 2024
2024-03-20 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
Join us for the Alaska Marine Policy Forum, sponsored by Alaska Sea Grant and Alaska Ocean Observing System. Every other month we host a one-hour meeting with participants across the state interested in marine policy in Alaska. Hear the latest about state and federal marine funding, legislation and policy issues.
Next call: Wednesday, March 20, 2024, 1 pm AK time (5 pm Eastern, 2 pm Pacific)
Please email Dawn Montano to be added to the announcement list.
If you would like to speak on the call or have ideas for topics, please email Ginny Eckert.
previous forum summaries
Use the button below to register and receive your personalized link to join the Zoom meeting. You will have the option to add this to your calendar.
Register for March Meeting

Seafood HACCP Segment 2 — March 2024
2024-03-01 09:00 - 16:00 | Online
Alaska Sea Grant offers Seafood HACCP Segment 2 practical training via online video conferencing, conducted at the specified time with a live instructor.
The class will cover the principles of HACCP and provide the tools and training to create a seafood HACCP plan. Students will need to register for and complete the Segment 1 training online prior to March 1, 2024, through the National Seafood HACCP Alliance for Training and Education. The Segment 1 training has a separate registration and fee.
You can register here for your Segment 2 training, using the button below, prior to completing Segment 1, but be sure to complete the Segment 1 training before the date of this Segment 2 training.
This course meets the requirement for HACCP Segment 2. Participants will attend this HACCP training live, using online video conferencing to complete the practical training session. The training will be conducted March 1, 2024, from 9 am to 4 pm.
All seafood processors in Alaska are required to have an approved Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan. This class prepares the participant to develop this plan. Class size is limited to 20 participants. A basic HACCP certificate issued by the Association of Food and Drug Officials is awarded upon completion of the class.
Register for HACCP

Course instructor: Chris Sannito, Seafood Technology Specialist
Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program
Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

2024 Mariculture Conference of Alaska
2024-02-26 - 2024-02-29 | Hotel Captain Cook, 939 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK, 99501, United States
Join us for the Mariculture Conference of Alaska, an opportunity to meet with members of the mariculture industry, hear from mariculture experts, and connect with farmers, processors, researchers, community leaders and other professionals.
The goal of the conference is to support the continued development of mariculture in the state by examining accomplishments, challenges and opportunities in research, innovative practices, educational opportunities, and drivers of industry growth.
The conference will also incorporate the NOAA Aquaculture Opportunity Area stakeholder workshop, and annual meetings for members of the Alaska Mariculture Alliance (AMA) and Alaska Shellfish Growers Association (ASGA).
Contact us to receive Mariculture of Alaska email announcements.
For more information

Introduction to Starting and Operating a Seafood Direct Marketing Business - February 2024
2024-02-26 - 2024-03-06 | Online
Date and time
February 26, 28, and March 1, 4, 6, 2024
5:30 pm Alaska
Online via Zoom

This is a five-session online workshop for those considering or currently involved in direct marketing seafood in Alaska. Topics include regulations, marketing, business planning, and quality. Lecturers include seafood marketing and quality specialists, regulatory officials, and experienced direct marketers.
The interactive class will be held online via Zoom on the evenings of February 26 and 28, and March 1, 4, and 6. Each 3-hour session will begin at 5:30 pm and will include lecture and discussion.
Prior to each session, registrants will receive class materials and login instructions. The class will conclude on March 6 with an open discussion with invited direct marketers.
Register for workshop

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Better Process Control School — February 2024
2024-02-07 - 2024-02-09 | Hotel Captain Cook, 939 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK, 99501, United States
Time: 8am–4pm each day
This three-day class covers acidified foods production and teaches the principles of thermal processing, equipment requirements, container closure evaluation, and record keeping for glass jars and cans. It is designed for retort operators, quality assurance technicians, and home canners, and will be useful for personnel in plants that pack and thermally process low acid foods and acidified foods in hermetically sealed containers. Sanitation principles are discussed in detail.
The course addresses both flexible pouch and traditional can retort operations.
This class satisfies FDA requirements. Class size is limited to 20 participants, and attendees will receive a certificate on successful completion. The registration fee is $510.
Register for the course

Course instructor: Chris Sannito, Seafood Technology Specialist
Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program
Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Introduction to Starting and Operating a Seafood Direct Marketing Business - January 2024
2024-01-29 - 2024-02-07 | Zoom
Date and time
January 29, 31, and February 2, 5, 7, 2024
5:30 pm Alaska
Online via Zoom

This is a five-session online workshop for those considering or currently involved in direct marketing seafood in Alaska. Topics include regulations, marketing, business planning, and quality. Lecturers include seafood marketing and quality specialists, regulatory officials, and experienced direct marketers.
The interactive class will be held online via Zoom on the evenings of January 29 and 31, and February 2, 5, and 7. Each 3-hour session will begin at 5:30 pm, and will include lecture and discussion.
Prior to each session, registrants will receive class materials and login instructions. The class will conclude on February 7 with an open discussion with invited direct marketers.
Register for workshop

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Seafood HACCP Segment 2 — January 2024
2024-01-26 09:00 - 16:00 | Online
Alaska Sea Grant offers Seafood HACCP Segment 2 practical training via online video conferencing, conducted at the specified time with a live instructor.
The class will cover the principles of HACCP and provide the tools and training to create a seafood HACCP plan. Students will need to register for and complete the Segment 1 training online prior to January 26, 2024, through the National Seafood HACCP Alliance for Training and Education. The Segment 1 training has a separate registration and fee.
You can register here for your Segment 2 training, using the button below, prior to completing Segment 1, but be sure to complete the Segment 1 training before the date of this Segment 2 training.
This course meets the requirement for HACCP Segment 2. Participants will attend this HACCP training live, using online video conferencing to complete the practical training session. The training will be conducted January 26, 2024, from 9 am to 4 pm.
All seafood processors in Alaska are required to have an approved Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan. This class prepares the participant to develop this plan. Class size is limited to 20 participants. A basic HACCP certificate issued by the Association of Food and Drug Officials is awarded upon completion of the class.
Register for HACCP

Course instructor: Chris Sannito, Seafood Technology Specialist
Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program
Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center

Alaska Sea Grant accommodation and code of conduct
Alaska Sea Grant is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in activities, meetings, or events. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made at least five business days in advance to sea.grant@alaska.edu. Participants and organizers of Alaska Sea Grant-sponsored activities are supported by the Alaska Sea Grant event code of conduct.

Exploring Ocean Farmer Co-ops
2024-01-25 10:00 - 23:00 | Zoom
A round table for new and established seaweed farmers
Whether you’re a seasoned co-op member, considering joining one, or just curious about the concept, this webinar is your opportunity to connect with fellow farmers and gain valuable insights.
Hosted by Alaska Sea Grant and Woods Hole Sea Grant as part of the National Seaweed Hub initiative, and in collaboration with GreenWave, this one hour round-table discussion is a follow-up to the December GreenWave Farmer Forum event on cooperatives, and is designed especially for farmers new to cooperatives. Attendance at the previous Farmer Forum is not required.
Event highlights
Round-table discussion: Engage in a candid conversation with farmers from various regions to discuss the successes and challenges faced by farmer co-ops. Share your own experiences and learn from others in this collaborative environment.
Learning from diverse perspectives: Discover what has and hasn’t worked for co-ops in several areas of the country. Gain valuable insights into the unique approaches and strategies employed by farmers, fostering a richer understanding of cooperative dynamics.
Brainstorming session: Bring your questions, ideas and curiosity to the table. Whether you’re already part of a co-op, interested in joining one, or simply exploring the possibilities, this is the perfect opportunity to brainstorm and cultivate new concepts.
Follow-up to Farmer Forum: Building on the discussions from the previous Farmer Forum, this session aims to continue the conversation, providing a platform for deeper insights and practical takeaways.
Who should attend?

farmers currently involved in a co-op
those interested in joining a co-op
farmers curious about the cooperative model

Come share your experiences, make connections, and help cultivate a thriving community of farmers, while we explore the potential of co-ops.
Register for webinar
