Aquaculture research
The VSU aquaculture program was initiated in 1985 to conduct research towards development of profitable fish management and culture systems. This program was part of an overall effort to provide alternative sources of income for small and part-time
Virginia farmers. A variety of production practices have been investigated and compared to provide information to farm pond owners. Initially, the program focused on fish production in farm ponds and cages. Now, the program has expanded to include earthen ponds and laboratory tank facilities. The goal is to help make the aquaculture industry competitive and sustainable in
Virginia.
 The program is presently (2007-08) conducting studies with channel catfish and rainbow trout in production ponds, farm ponds, and cages. Research focuses on management systems, water quality, feeding regimes, and fish sizes for stocking into various systems. Optimum environmental conditions necessary for healthy fish, fast growth rates, and management systems are established through years of research experiments. Results are disseminated to producers and pond owners through VSU Field Days, educational meetings, farm demonstrations, and scientific publications.
Contact: Scott H. Newton
Contact: Scott H. Newton
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