Session 1: Getting Your Farm Started
- Buying Seed – Learn about seed sizes, how to count seed, and basics of seed purchasing, transporting and handling
Scott Rickard, Auburn University Shellfish Lab (AUSL)
Presentation (pdf file), Video
Resources
-
- 2021 Florida Shellfish Seed Suppliers
- Gulf of Mexico Shellfish Seed Suppliers
- AUSL Counting Seed App. Download the app from the Apple Store here and also from Google Play here.
- What is Triploidy? – Introduction to triploid oyster seed technology
Huiping Yang, University of Florida/IFAS School of Forest Resources and Conservation
Presentation (pdf file), Video
Resources
- Florida Shellfish Seed Regulations – Cover FDACS best management practices pertaining to in-state and out-of-state purchasing of oyster seed
Charlie Culpepper, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Aquaculture
Presentation (pdf file), Video
- Start-up Considerations – What to consider in selecting your gear and culture methods along with other start-up tips from a commercial oyster grower
John Supan, Navy Cove Oyster Farm and Sea Farms Consulting
Presentation (pdf file), Video
- Gear Selection and Installation – Focus on what gear types to select and proper installation on the farm
Bill Walton, Auburn University Shellfish Lab
Presentation (pdf file), Video
- Planting Your First Crop – Determine stocking densities to use and field nursery options
Bill Walton, Auburn University Shellfish Lab
Presentation (pdf file), Video
- Financial Considerations in Starting Your Farm – Provides estimated startup costs and income for a 1.5-acre farm
Andrew Ropicki, University of Florida/IFAS, Food and Resource Economics Department
Presentation (pdf file), Video
- Risk Factors in Operating Your Farm – Determine how environmental and economic risks affect oyster production and profitability
Leslie Sturmer, University of Florida/IFAS Extension
Presentation (pdf file), Video
Resources
- Why Do I Need a Business Plan? Introduction to developing a business plan and why it is important
Mark Yarick, Florida Small Business Development Center
Presentation (pdf file), Video