RESOURCES
Maine Aquaculture Timeline
A chronological overview of the development of Maine’s aquaculture industry, from early experimentation to today’s growing sector.
Foundation & Early Innovation
1871-1975
The roots of Maine aquaculture began with public hatcheries, marine research, and the first policies allowing cultivation in shared coastal waters.
1871
Craig Brook Fish Hatchery Established
Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery opens in East Orland as one of the first Atlantic salmon hatcheries in the region.
1972
Darling Marine Center Hatchery Constructed
The University of Maine's Darling Marine Center constructs an aquaculture hatchery as part of the first Sea Grant-funded cold-water marine cultivation project.
1975
Maine’s First Aquaculture Lease Granted
The state grants its first aquaculture lease to Abandoned Farm, Inc. in Clark's Cove, South Bristol.
1903
McKown's Point Hatchery Established
Marine fish and lobster hatchery operations begin at McKnown's Point in Boothbay Harbor.
1973
Maine Aquaculture Leasing Laws Enacted
Maine establishes legislation governing the leasing of public marine waters for aquaculture development.
Industry Formation & Expansion
1976-1999
During the late 20th century, Maine aquaculture expanded rapidly through trade organizations, salmon farming, shellfish hatcheries, and new experimental licensing systems.
1982
First Salmon Farm in Cobscook Bay
Ocean Products becomes the first salmon farming company operating in Cobscook Bay, helping establish the region as the center of Maine’s salmon industry.
1988
Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center (MAIC) Established
Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center is formed with support from the Maine Legislature to promote economically and environmentally sustainable aquaculture development.
1996
Maine’s First Commercial Seaweed Farm
Coastal Plantations Inc. successfully farms Porphyra species for nori production in partnership with researchers from the University of Connecticut.
1998
First Northeast Aquaculture Conference & Exposition (NACE)
The first biennial NACE is held to connect producers, researchers, students, and industry professionals across the Northeast.
1976
Maine Aquaculture Associated Formed
The Maine Aquaculture Association becomes the nation’s first trade association representing aquaculture farmers.
1987
Beals Island Regional Shellfish Hatchery Founded
The hatchery pioneers the use of hatchery-reared soft-shell clams for shellfish management and restoration efforts.
1991
MAIC Incorporates as a 501(c)(3)
MAIC transitions from the University of Maine and becomes an independent nonprofit organization.
1998
Experimental Aquaculture Leases Created
Maine authorizes experimental aquaculture lease sites for companies, researchers, and individuals conducting aquaculture trials and innovation projects.
1999
Limited Purpose Aquaculture Licenses (LPAs) Created
Maine creates renewable small-scale licenses allowing growers to test shellfish cultivation sites and techniques.
Research, Collaboration & Workforce Development
2000-2015
Aquaculture research institutions, workforce training, and industry collaboration expanded significantly in the early 2000s.
2002
Shellfish Working Group Established
Led by Dana Morse and Maine Sea Grant, the group creates networking and professional development opportunities for shellfish growers.
2009
Aquaculture Research Institute Created
The University of Maine Board of Trustees establishes the Aquaculture Research Institute to strengthen statewide aquaculture research initiatives.
2014
SEANET Grant Awarded
The Sustainable Ecological Aquaculture Network receives a $20 million National Science Foundation grant supporting collaborative research across Maine’s coastline.
2004
Cooke Aquaculture Acquires Maine Salmon Operations
Cooke Aquaculture purchases all commercial salmon farming operations in Maine, becoming the state’s sole commercial salmon producer.
2013
First Aquaculture in Shared Waters Class
The Aquaculture in Shared Waters program launches community-based aquaculture training programs for fishermen and sea farmers in Maine.
2015
First Maine Aquaculture R&D Summit
Industry members and researchers gather to explore emerging challenges, technologies, and innovations in Maine aquaculture.
Modern Growth & Global Recognition
2019-Present
Maine aquaculture enters a period of rapid diversification, international attention, and climate-focused innovation.
2019
Maine Seaweed Week Launches
Maine Seaweed Week begins as a statewide celebration of Maine seaweed harvesters, products, and culinary innovation.
2022
Seagriculture USA Held in Maine
Seagriculture USA hosts its first U.S. conference in Maine, highlighting advances and opportunities in the growing American seaweed industry.
2020
COVID-19 Pandemic Impacts Aquaculture Industry
The global pandemic disrupts seafood markets, labor systems, supply chains, and coastal communities throughout Maine and beyond.
Want to learn more about MAIC's history?
From its founding in 1988 to today, MAIC has supported sustainable aquaculture in Maine through research, business incubation, and industry partnerships.