To address increased interest in oyster aquaculture, applied research and demonstration projects were initiated in 2016 to evaluate an oyster breeding process to Florida conditions. Diploid and triploid oysters were cultured at commercial farms and at the UF experimental site in Cedar Key, where replicated field trials allow for documenting the effects of management practices on production. Ongoing field trials are continuing to examine several gear types and biofouling control strategies.
Topics to be discussed at this upcoming meeting include: Production performance of diploid and triploid oysters and effects of seasonal harvests; Comparison of stocking densities, float designs, and antifouling coatings on production; Understanding environmental and market risks on farm profitability; Beta testing of the Oyster Financial And Risk Model Calculator; Where to find additional resources, suppliers and workshop videos; and Discussion on Dixie County oyster culture efforts.
The meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 13, 2018, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at the Dixie County Manager’s Office located on 56 NE 210 Avenue in Cross City, Florida 32628.
For additional information, contact Leslie Sturmer, University of Florida/IFAS Shellfish Aquaculture Extension Program at (352) 543-5057 or Lnst@ufl.edu.
