Aquaculture conference scheduled for March 7-8

The Wisconsin aquaculture industry will hold its 19th annual conference on March 7-8 at Fox Hills Resort in Mishicot, Wisconsin.

The theme for this year’s conference is “Raising Fish Today to Build a Better Tomorrow.” The two-day conference is designed for those currently working in the Midwest’s aquaculture industry or who are interested in learning more about it. Aquaculture accounts for around $21 million in Wisconsin’s economy.

“The Wisconsin Aquaculture Conference brings together experts from all sectors of fish farming to share ideas and learn about new technologies,” says Ron Johnson, aquaculture specialist with the University of Wisconsin-Extension.

The conference is sponsored by the Wisconsin Aquaculture Association, the University of Wisconsin-Extension, the University of Wisconsin Stevens-Point and the Wisconsin Dept. of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

“The Aquaculture Extension Program plays an integral part in the conference by working in partnership with the other sponsors to select topics and speakers,” says Johnson. “Additionally, Extension specialists will be available to answer questions and help newcomers, in particular, find out if fish farming is a good fit for them.”

Johnson and fellow UW-Extension aquaculture specialist Jim Held will report on the state’s “Walleye Initiative” at the conference. The event also features a retail product “showcase,” a trade show, silent auction and cooking demonstration.

“One of the true highlights of the conference is the ‘Taste of Wisconsin Aquaculture’ cooking demonstration which highlights the diversity of fish products raised in the state,” says Johnson.

Registration is $115 for Wisconsin Aquaculture Association members and $145 for non-members before February 23. The registration fee for nonmembers includes a one-year membership to the Wisconsin Aquaculture Association.