Researchers at the University of Maryland Extension played a prominent role in accessing the benefits of aquaculture to Ecosystems and Communities. The university is also incorporated into a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries global study to extend their research for accessing the benefits of seaweed and shellfish aquaculture to local economies.
To conduct the research, Maryland has been analyzing the Chesapeake Bay for decades. They have included the analysis of habitat health, nutrient input, and native species numbers. Thus, they implement best management practices to reduce the negative environmental impacts.
The study concluded that aquaculture plays an important role in improving the health of the Bay and watersheds. It removes harmful nutrients from the ecosystem to make it healthy. Thus, it also provides economic resources to the community.
Over 50 scientific papers have been reviewed by the research team with the help of their other collaborators. These scientific papers help them to quantify the benefits of oyster aquaculture for the local economy and community.
According to a press release by NOAA, they get the sustainably produced seafood from seaweed farms and shellfish. The availability of sustainable food helps them reduce the costs related to other nutrient removal methods, such as stormwater retention ponds and buffer streams.