Al Roker and his team from the Today Show recently traveled to California and Connecticut to
explore the potential of aquaculture as a climate solution.

The seafood industry in the US is mostly dependent on imports, which are threatened by climate change.

Aquaculture can provide a local, sustainable option that requires less fresh water, fish food, space, and emits fewer greenhouse gases than traditional farming.

Eating farmed seafood can be good for health, the economy, and the environment.

During their visit, Al Roker and his team met with experts from NOAA, Sea Grant, and farmers
from the Port of San Diego and Copps Island Oysters to learn about the diverse range of
aquaculture practices across the United States.

They learned about abalone and how aquaculture can be part of the Blue Economy in San Diego, and visited Copps Island Oysters, the largest oyster operation on the East Coast, which also farms sugar kelp for skincare products.

The team spoke with seaweed experts, aquaculture farmers, and even tasted seaweed and abalone prepared by Chef JoJo Ruiz in San Diego.

Overall, aquaculture has the potential to support working waterfronts, local businesses, and the coastal economy, all of which are threatened by climate change.