Report on the Workshop, March 5-7, 2001

Preface to Report

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS), National Program Staff is pleased to make available the accompanying report from the Workshop "Biotechnology – Aquaculture Interface: The Site of Maximum Impact". Organized by the Oceanic Institute, the Workshop was conducted March 5-7, 2001 in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. It was a unique gathering of scientists, industry representatives, and government officials interested in the applications of biotechnology and molecular biology to the field of aquaculture research.

The primary purpose of the Workshop was to provide information to ARS about biotechnology tools that will help ARS in the development and implementation of its future aquaculture research programs. With the information provided by the Workshop, ARS will carefully consider how the application of biotechnology could improve the major components of the ARS aquaculture research program (i.e., Genetic Improvement; Integrated Aquatic Animal Health Management; Reproduction and Early Development; Growth, Development, and Nutrition; Aquaculture Production Systems; Sustainability and Environmental Compatibility of Aquaculture Production Systems; and Quality, Safety, and Variety of Aquaculture Products for Consumers). The Workshop and related reports will assist ARS in identifying and prioritizing opportunities to enhance its research through the application of biotechnology. In particular, the information and outcomes of the Workshop will be of great value as ARS develops its next 5-year Action Plan for Aquaculture Research.

It was also understood that the outcomes and information from the Workshop could be useful to others in government, academia, and industry that are considering future applications of biotechnology to their own aquaculture programs. In this spirit, ARS hopes that the availability of the report on the ARS Web site will be useful to individuals or organizations interested in advancing new initiatives in science and technology.