In this episode of Salty Talks, Daniel Delap shares how his research at the University of Maine’s Aquaculture Research Institute, developing fish vaccines and culturing salmon gill cells, helped launch him into veterinary school. We talk fish health, disease research, and how aquaculture experience can open unexpected doors in animal medicine.

What does it take to build a thriving aquaculture industry along one of the most rugged coastlines in the country? In this episode of Salty Talks, we delve into the evolution of aquaculture in Maine with marine scientist Dr. Damian Brady, exploring everything from salmon pens and oyster farms to kelp lines and satellite data. But Damian doesn’t just study aquaculture, he helps train the people who will shape its future. We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, the technologies transforming aquaculture, and why embedding students directly into coastal industries is essential for the next generation of marine science. From hatcheries to harbor masters, climate adaptation to community buy-in, this episode tells the story of a coastal economy in motion and the people making it possible.

In this episode, we head to the Darling Marine Center on the coast of Maine to experience the first-ever Aquaculture Boot Camp—an intensive training program designed to equip the next generation of aquaculture farmers and professionals with hands-on maritime skills.

Offered by the Maine Aquaculture Hub in partnership with aquaculture in shared waters, and funded in part by congressional support through Senators King and Collins, this week-long boot camp immerses students in critical aquaculture skills—handling boats, navigation, knot-tying, mooring design, oyster farming, kelp cultivation, and boat trailering.

Hear directly from instructors and students about why hands-on training is crucial for Maine’s working waterfront and how building practical skills translates into confidence, safety, and future success in aquaculture.

Aquaculture has become a cornerstone of Maine’s working waterfront, but it wasn’t always that way. In this episode, we dive into the origins of Maine’s aquaculture industry, tracing its evolution from a handful of experimental leases in the 1970s to a $157 million industry today. We explore how early pioneers tested the waters, the role of research institutions like the Darling Marine Center, and the breakthroughs in hatchery technology and shellfish breeding that helped shape modern aquaculture. Plus, we discuss the challenges of site selection, permitting, and balancing industry growth with sustainability. If you’ve ever wondered how Maine went from wild fisheries to a thriving shellfish and seaweed farming industry, this episode is for you!

In this episode, we delve into the unique experiences of the ARI’s 2024 Aqueous fellows, who blend Indigenous knowledge systems with Western scientific methods to explore innovative solutions in aquaculture. Hosted by Inclusive Science Communications Fellow Rida Ali, this episode features insightful conversations with fellows working on diverse projects such as oyster aquaculture, salmon restoration, and razor clams. We explore the concept of "Two-Eyed Seeing," which integrates Indigenous perspectives with Western science, providing a holistic approach to understanding and managing marine ecosystems. Whether you're a prospective Aqueous applicant or simply curious about sustainable aquaculture, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

In this special episode, we take you to the World Aquaculture Society Conference, held in San Antonio. Listen to our panel session as we explore the cutting-edge endeavors of the Aquaculture Research Institute (ARI). From sustainable feeds to disease management and vaccine development, ARI's team of experts share their insights in making aquaculture a beacon of sustainability. Discover how interdisciplinary collaboration and education play pivotal roles in ARI's mission, bridging the gap between science, community, and industry. This episode not only highlights ARI's pioneering work in aquatic animal health but also sheds light on how these advancements are shaping the future of the aquaculture industry.

This episode of Salty Talks delves into the world of Atlantic salmon aquaculture. Join us for a discussion with Dr. Heather Hamlin and her graduate student, Halli Bear. This episode offers an in-depth exploration of their groundbreaking research, focusing on developing innovative predictive metrics for salmon broodstock and offspring quality. Discover how Dr. Hamlin's journey, from working in a pet store to leading research in marine sciences, has shaped her passion for aquaculture and sustainable fish farming practices. Halli Bear shares her intriguing path from studying pinnipeds to her current role in assessing salmon embryo development and viability. Together, they discuss the challenges and advancements in salmon breeding, the role of AI and machine learning in aquaculture, and the potential impact of their research on the industry's future.

In this episode of Salty Talks, we embark on a voyage to Hurricane Island, a hub of marine science and leadership located 12 miles off the coast of Maine. Join in as four remarkable women who have shaped and been shaped by their experiences at Hurricane Island share their personal journeys, revealing how this unique island has fostered community-driven science, leadership, and particularly, the empowerment of women in the field of marine science. From diving into the cold Atlantic waters to developing strong bonds in a collaborative environment, their stories are a testament to the transformative power of Hurricane Island. This episode is not just about scientific exploration; it's about breaking barriers, building lasting friendships, and making waves in marine conservation. Tune in for a look at how a small island can have a big impact on personal and professional growth.

In this episode, we delve into the world of blister worms and their impact on aquaculture. Join us as we explore the life of these marine polychaetes with Dr. Paul Rawson, whose research at the University of Maine is shedding light on the challenges these creatures pose to the shellfish industry. From historical accounts dating back to the 1700s to cutting-edge techniques like cold storage, we navigate the complex relationship between oysters and their unwelcome guests.

In this episode, we explore the dynamic world of an experimental aquaculture farm at the Darling Marine Center and the ARI researchers dedicated to advancing the industry. We discuss how this farm serves as both a research facility and an educational tool, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities within sustainable marine cultivation. Through the perspectives of Chris Noren, Adam St. Gelais, and Tom Kiffney, we delve into the nuances of cultivating scallops, kelp, and oysters, and the broader implications of their work for Maine's aquaculture sector. Join us as we uncover the importance of experimental farms in developing best practices and educating the next generation of aquaculture professionals!