Innovations in Aquaculture

The “Innovations in Aquaculture” 4-H Science Toolkit was developed to introduce youth to the field of aquaculture, and the science and engineering practices involved in growing aquaculture species. The activities range from the importance of aquaculture as a way of meeting the seafood demands of the future, to exploring how aquaculture operations can be beneficial as erosion control methods if carefully designed and engineered. Activities are appropriate for youth in 6th – 8th grades. The Innovations in Aquaculture toolkit, developed in partnership with Maine EPSCoR, is based on the National Science Foundation supported SEANET (Sustainable Ecological Aquaculture Network) program.

A short video has been produced by the University of Maine to introduce the types of organisms farmed in Maine through aquaculture, and the methods used to farm them. The video — What Is Aquaculture? (YouTube) — may help you introduce aquaculture to youth.

Activity Series

The activities are designed for the middle school (grades 6-8) audience but may be adapted for other age learners. Additional curriculum is available from University of Maine 4-H, designed specifically for other ages, including Exploring Marine Science and Aquaculture (grades K-2), the Science of Seaweeds (grades 3-5), and Your Future in Aquaculture: Testing the Waters (grades 9-12) (coming soon!).

Are you interested in learning more about what the University of Maine and UMaine system campuses offer?

The University of Maine offers over 100 academic majors! To learn more either:

Visit UMaine’s Find a Major.

Explore our other campuses here.

If you need help connecting to UMaine or one of the other UMaine System campuses, contact us by email or call (207) 581-3877 and ask for Laura, Greg, or Sarah!

Contact 4-HScience@maine.edu to reserve a toolkit.

This activity is supported by National Science Foundation award #EPS-0904155 to Maine EPSCoR at the University of Maine.