The Aquaculture Feasibility Assessment (Assessment) explores whether aquaculture at Noyo Harbor can support local food production, create jobs, and help restore the region’s degraded marine ecosystems. It focused on four species of regional importance: Pacific oysters, red abalone, purple sea urchins, and bull kelp. These species were selected for their ecological value, cultural significance, and commercial potential, and were evaluated for both in-water and land-based production.

The team deployed these species at two harbor locations, collected year-round water quality data at four sites, and conducted small pilot tests to understand how temperature, salinity, and freshwater river input affect each species.

Community input was central to the process. A survey conducted over 12 months gathered perspectives from residents, fishermen, and seafood consumers on eating habits, aquaculture attitudes, and concerns related to water quality and environmental impacts. By combining environmental data, hands-on pilot testing, and community feedback, the assessment identifies which species are most likely to succeed and provides a foundation for pursuing aquaculture that is realistic, responsible, and locally supported.