Session 1: Getting Your Farm Started

1. 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.

 

2. 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

• • Production and Performance of Triploid Oysters for Aquaculture (UF EDIS FA208)
  • Induction and Establishment of Tetraploid Oyster Breeding Stocks for Triploid OysteR Production (UF EDIS FA215)

 

3. 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

 

4. 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

 

5. 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

 

6. Planting Your First Crop – Determine stocking densities to use and field nursery options
   Bill Walton, Auburn University Shellfish Lab
   Presentation (pdf file), Video

 

7. 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

  

8. 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

• • Oyster FARM Calculator
  • Storm and Hurricane Preparedness Fact Sheets

 

9. 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