By Kim Montie

On Wednesday, Mar. 12, the Cameron Parish Port, in collaboration with Sea Grant, hosted an Alternative Oyster Culture (AOC) Workshop to foster discussions between The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), the Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (LDWF), and Cameron AOC growers.

The event aimed to bring together state agencies and local oyster growers to discuss fisheries management, educational outreach, regulatory matters, and public health considerations related to oyster farming. The morning session featured hands-on demonstrations in Calcasieu Lake, where growers showcased their cultivation methods to state officials.

Following the on-water demonstrations, attendees reconvened at the Cameron Port office for lunch and a series of presentations. Experts from LDWF and Sea Grant provided insights into the process of importing oyster seed and discussed operations at the LSU Hatchery Facilities. The workshop concluded with in-depth discussions on the ongoing growth of the oyster farming industry and the evolving needs of local growers.

The event highlighted the importance of collaboration between state regulators and industry stakeholders in ensuring the sustainability and advancement of Louisiana’s oyster aquaculture sector.