Special Symposium: Can Seaweed Farming Contribute to a New Sustainable Economy in Texas?
As Texas continues to develop its mariculture industry, a new opportunity is on the horizon—one that could transform the state’s coastal economy and contribute to global sustainability efforts. With the rapid success of oyster farming following the legalization of mariculture in 2020, researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers are now turning their attention to the vast potential of seaweed cultivation. Could seaweed farming become the next major economic and environmental breakthrough for Texas?
To explore this question, the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI), funded by the Texas Gulf Coast Research Center, will host a special symposium on April 3, 2025, at the Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve (ERC) in Port Aransas, from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. This full-day event will bring together aquaculture, industry, and policy specialists from all over to assess how seaweed farming could contribute to a thriving and sustainable blue economy in Texas and beyond.
Attendees can expect an engaging experience, beginning with opening remarks by Dr. Mark Lever from UTMSI, followed by brief self-introductions from all participants. The morning sessions will set the stage with a keynote presentation by Dr. Harlan (Lanny) Miller of Zivo Inc., providing insight into the commercial and environmental opportunities of seaweed farming. A series of oral presentations will follow, featuring experts discussing the economic, scientific, and technological aspects of seaweed cultivation.
In addition to formal talks, the symposium is designed to foster discussion and collaboration. Coffee breaks and poster sessions will provide opportunities for networking and informal knowledge exchange. Participants will also engage in breakout group discussions, where they can explore key challenges and opportunities in seaweed farming. These discussions will culminate in a plenary session where group findings will be shared, allowing attendees to contribute to shaping the next steps in Texas' seaweed industry.
A panel discussion featuring Harlan Miller (Zivo Inc.), Ning Lin (UT Bureau of Economic Geology), Sergey Nuzhkin (University of Southern California), Lindsay Campbell (Texas Parks & Wildlife), Lauren Dunlap (Copano Oyster Company) will address the question: “Seaweed Farming on the Texas Coast – What’s Next?” This session will provide a forward-looking perspective on policy, investment, and scientific research needed to advance the industry.
As a major goal of the symposium is to promote networking and build momentum, the event will include a directory listing the names, job positions, and contact information of all attendees in the final workshop brochure. This ensures that connections made during the symposium will continue beyond the event.
Interest in the symposium has been substantial, and registration is nearing full capacity. Those wishing to take part in this landmark event are encouraged to register as soon as possible to secure their spot.
This symposium represents a crucial step in understanding how seaweed farming could shape the future of Texas’ coastal economy. By bringing together experts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, UTMSI aims to spark innovation and lay the groundwork for a new sustainable industry. Whether you are a researcher, an investor, a government official, or simply someone curious about the future of marine resource management, this event offers an unparalleled opportunity to be part of an exciting and forward-thinking movement.
For registration details and more information, visit the Texas Seaweed Symposium event website. The future of seaweed farming in Texas begins here—join the conversation.
