Simpson announces grants for aquaculture shellfish nurseries and hatcheries post Idalia

By Michael Costeines

Published Oct. 6, 2023, 3:29 p.m. ET | Updated Oct. 6, 2023

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson delivers remarks at Hurricane Idalia update, Tallahassee, Fla., Aug. 28, 2023. (Video/Gov. Ron DeSantis' office)

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson Friday declared grant are available following Hurricane Idalia for the state’s aquaculture shellfish hatcheries and nurseries.

The project is intended to increase the quality, availability, and sustainability of Florida’s shellfish seed. Totaling $500,000, the grants will provide a 50-50 match of funds used to purchase qualifying gear and supplies after the notice of award date.

“Hurricane Idalia dealt a devastating blow to Florida’s aquaculture industry, and as producers are rebuilding and repairing their operations, we need to substantially increase the quality, availability, and sustainability of our shellfish seed,” Simpson said. “We will continue to do everything we can to support impacted agricultural producers and ensure that they have all the tools they need to rebuild and recover.”

While Aquaculture grants are available statewide, projects are being prioritized to areas impacted by the Hurricane. Idalia caused an estimated $35,159,952 in damages and losses to the aquaculture industry.

In order to qualify, applicants must have an issued Aquaculture Certificate of Registration Holder or be given one before any purchase is made. Priority will be designated to applicants who’s projects will increase the availability of seed for farmers, especially the Gulf Coast that were impacted by the Hurricane.

All applications must be submitted by Oct. 30, 2023 by 5 p.m. Further information can be found here.