July 25 & July 28, 2023

University of Florida /IFAS, Florida Atlantic University, Harbor Branch, and industry partners conducted a two‐year monitoring and assessment project evaluating a broad range of factors in clam seed production facilities. These workshops shared findings focused on better understanding and alleviating seed mortality.

Agenda

Topics included:

• Welcome – Leslie Sturmer
• Introduction & Scope of Work – Shirley Baker
• Basic water quality parameters – Bonnie Getter
• Water Chemistry: pH, alkalinity, and more – Leslie Sturmer
• Heavy metals, VOCs, pesticides, herbicides – Natalie Anderson
• Bacteria and seed health concerns – Susan Laramore
• Nursery phytoplankton overview – Shirley Baker
• Useful tools – Natalie Anderson
• FDACS Gulf Coast Shellfish Nursery & Hatchery Grant Program – Portia Sapp, FDACS Division of Aquaculture
• Bacteriological Sampling kits (media plates, loops, swabs, etc.) and Water Quality kits (thermometer, refractometer pH meter, etc.) were provided