Seagriculture USA: the Maine event
The second edition of Seagriculture USA 2023, a leading event for the seaweed sector, gathered 293 participants from 185 companies and 18 countries for two days of insightful discussions, knowledge exchange, and networking, from September 6-7.
Hosted in the picturesque city of Portland, Maine, the event brought together a broad spectrum of participants, including seaweed cultivators, processors, distributors, technology providers, investors, academic institutions, research organizations, and government agencies. The conference aims to foster discourse, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s potential and challenges.
An outstanding feature of Seagriculture USA 2023 was the trade show showcasing 19 exhibitors, each representing prominent enterprises contributing to the development of the seaweed industry and local Maine businesses. The dynamic trade show served as a platform, fostering international expansion opportunities and allowing delegates to stay informed about the most recent developments in the seaweed field.
Seagriculture USA 2023 waterfront tour
This year’s Seagriculture featured new opportunities for networking, including the Cocktail Reception which took place at the Portland Museum of Art, providing an informal and relaxed setting for delegates to unwind, connect, and interact.
Speakers at the conference included Professor David Siegel, University of California Santa Barbara (pictured); Jang K.Kim, Professor, Incheon National University, South Korea; and Eliza Harrison, Director of California Operations, Ocean Rainforest, USA.
Julie Decker, Executive Director of Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation closed the conference, along with a video message of Mike Dunleavy, the governor of Alaska. They extended an invitation to all attendees to visit Ketchikan, Alaska for Seagriculture USA 2024. Alaska’s breathtaking natural landscapes with its extensive coastlines and pristine marine environments offer a unique backdrop for the conference.
Afterwards, delegates had the choice of two tours each, exploring Portland and its coastal charm: a Waterfront Tour to learn more about Portland’s working waterfront and a boat tour to see beautiful Casco Bay. The grand finale was held in the Hús, a hubspot for those active in the Blue Economy.
Seagriculture events in 2024:
- Seagriculture EU, 18 – 20 June 2024, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
- Seagriculture USA, 11 – 12 September 2024, Ketchikan, Alaska
