Strengthening U.S. Oyster Broodstock Systems: Building Healthier, More Resilient Seed for American Growers

Collaborators

Co-PIs: William Walton, Jessica Small, and Hamish Small (Virginia Institute of Marine Science); Christopher Hollenbeck (Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi); Louis Plough (USDA ARS); Mackenzie Gavery (NOAA NWFSC)

Consultant: Bobbi Hudson, Pacific Shellfish Institute

Website

https://oysterseed.farm

Summary

This USDA NIFA AFRI Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) project brings together academic, federal, and industry partners to strengthen the oyster broodstock systems that supply seed to U.S. growers. The team will work to improve how broodstock are selected, conditioned, and managed so that hatcheries can consistently produce healthier, more resilient seed for oyster farms across the country.

Data Availability

Notes

Proposal ID

USDA NIFA 2026-68012-47021 (proposal 2026-04626)

Dates

Start 9/15/2026

Amount

$8,240,701