Over the past three decades, hard clam culture in Florida has expanded from a fledging industry located primarily on the east central coast (Indian River Lagoon) to one that supports over 300 growers in 10 or more coastal counties and is valued at $20 million. Information about this industry can be found here. A variety of applied projects have been conducted by research and extension faculty from UF/IFAS and other institutions in support of the clam culture industry. Projects are focused on four program areas: 1) production and management, 2) genetic stock improvement, 3) farm environment, and 4) other, such as business management. Project summaries are provided, as well as results and final reports. Industry workshops deliver information on these and additional projects. Summaries and presentations for each workshop are available. Presentation abstracts given at national conferences can also be found. Additional resources on clam culture are provided. Tools developed to assist clam growers include pictorial guides identifying marine organisms and food sources found in and around their farms and environmentally-beneficial ecosystem services their farms provide.
