Could the emerging aquaculture market in New Zealand be on it’s way to solving a multitude of problems? With its many properties which help with nutrient removal, regenerative opportunities and carbon sequestration, is this a commercially viable farm system that more farmers should be embracing?

The Aquaculture industry often doesn’t receive as much publicity as it should – as the aquatic plant cultivation industry is the world’s fastest growing sector. As one of the most efficient and most sustainable forms of protein production on the planet, there is lots of research about how the growing of aquatic plants can be considered beneficial for the environment due to its carbon sequestration and it is financially and ecologically sustainable too. Sounds too good to be true? Join us to hear from the scientist developing this alternative solution and the farmers who grow it and learn about the potential benefits and future possibilities for the aquaculture sector.

Timings:

9.00am : Welcome & Introduction from B.linc

9.10am : Keynote address 1 – Lincoln University - Rob Reynish

Describe how aquaculture works and how successful it can be when implemented to diversify farms (providing working examples where possible). What technologies are being used around the world/what is coming soon for NZ that can provide further opportunities for farmers in this area? How can implementing these technologies assist farmers and how could it be further used in the future to add more value for our food producers. Where do you see the future of aquaculture going?

9.25am : Keynote address 2 – TBC

Share as much detail as you can around the work going into the development of seaweed and other microalgae and aquatic plants as cattle-feed. What are the current opportunities and what is being used overseas? Do you know of any technologies in R&D that have the potential to transform the future of pasture and grazing management? How can these technologies relieve the stress put on our natural resources? Where do you see the future of aquaculture going?

9.40am : Keynote address 3 - NZAI – Benoit Guieysse

Share your journey in implementing land based aquaculture to diversify your farm. How can farmers and growers use knowledge, research, science, and work together with the Government to help establish new and more efficient ways of working? What will it take to create these collaborations? What work is already underway? What are the next steps on your farm to further develop these systems?

9.55am : Panel discussion/Interactive Q&A session with audience

10.30am : Event finishes

Please note: In accordance with University guidelines this event is only open to guests who have received both COVID vaccines and hold a valid vaccine pass which will be scanned on arrival. Further details around our COVID policy will be communicated to those who have registered prior to the event.