Project Title: Shinnecock Macroalgae Farming System Pilot Project Project Objectives 1) Designed a pilot-scale macroalgae cultivation system deployed by members of the Shinnecock Nation with the help and expertise of […]
Project Title: Shinnecock Macroalgae Farming System Pilot Project
Project Objectives
1) Designed a pilot-scale macroalgae cultivation system deployed by members of the Shinnecock Nation with the help and expertise of local partners.
2) Educated members of the Shinnecock Nation on the proper operation and maintenance of the seaweed farming system.
3) Harvested macroalgae produced by the system and explore potential residential uses.
BACKGROUND
Shinnecock Indian Nation partnered with local partners to develop a pilot program that deployed a seaweed cultivation farm system into Shinnecock ancestral waters. This partnership represents community members and the department creating sustainable aquaculture practices to improve water quality in Shinnecock waterways. Seaweed farming is the fastest-growing aquaculture sector according to the National Marine Fisheries Service.
Additionally, seaweed farming has numerous environmental benefits, including the uptake of excess nutrients like nitrogen and
phosphorous that frequently cause harmful algal blooms and decreased oxygen levels in surrounding waters. Seaweed absorbs carbon dioxide to grow, and therefore seaweed cultivation can further improve water quality and help mitigate the effects of ocean acidification. Improving water quality is a high priority of the Shinnecock Indian Nation. This pilot project has a tremendous impact on water quality improvement and serves as a model for sustainable aquaculture. The Nation continues to explore various methods to maintain water quality standards that support its way of life. Ocean acidification would have tremendous impact not only on food resources; however, the shells are valuable cultural resources that provide financial support for some tribal wampum makers.
Local partner key personnel provides the technical expertise and business knowledge that is necessary for a successful outcome to the project. Their years in the industry will guide the development of the cultivation system. This skillset was complemented by the department staff and community members’ knowledge of the waters and community dynamics.
