Many skills required for the production of beef, pork, and poultry are very useful and transferable to aquaculture. However, because aquaculture involves the production of animals in water, there are unique skills necessary. The skills needed for aquaculture may be obtained through a variety of sources.
Readings
Reading books, magazines, extension publications, and other printed materials are useful in developing a business plan. Reading is also a good way to maintain technical competence. For sources of aquaculture information, please click here.
World Wide Web
The World Wide Web is an excellent source of aquaculture information. There are hundreds of aquaculture-related Web pages accessible 24 hours a day. For a good starting point on the World Wide Web visit the Aquaculture Network Information Center (AquaNIC) Web Site at: http://aquanic.org
Cooperative Extension Service
Your first contact should be with your local Cooperative Extension Service or Sea Grant Office. They can quickly locate useful resources and they can develop printed technical materials and organize seminars and workshops. To learn more about state aquaculture specialists, visit http://ag.ansc.purdue.edu/aquanic/educator/educator.htm. Click here is a list of USDA Regional Aquaculture Centers.
Schools
Many types of schools provide a wide variety of aquaculture programs ranging from a four-year degree to individual technical courses. Do not overlook distance education opportunities offered at universities, colleges, community colleges or trade schools. For a list of U.S. colleges and universities offering aquaculture classes, please click here.
Associations
Membership in industry associations provides technical and networking opportunities. Every state has at least one aquaculture association. There are many national and international associations and societies specializing in various segments of the industry. For more information about aquaculture associations, visit http://ag.ansc.purdue.edu/aquanic/publicat/govagen/nal/associat.htm.