Our Work
Sustainable Seafood
News & Stories
Current Initiatives
Training & Resources
About
Seafood is the cornerstone of the cultural and economic fabric of the Ocean State.
Through network building and collaboration, our fisheries and aquaculture specialists connect industry and consumers with the best available science to build vibrant local markets for Rhode Island fishery and aquaculture products through ecosystem-based management practices, as well as continue its commitment to provide training for safe seafood processing.
Mission
To build a vibrant local seafood economy that is safe and sustainable through effective, ecosystem-based management practices.
Focus Areas
FISHERIES
While up to 90% of seafood is currently imported into the U.S., Sea Grant works to support U.S. fisheries by connecting people with locally harvested bounty and by supporting those who provide it.
AQUACULTURE
Commercial aquaculture complements wild fisheries’ contribution to the seafood supply local, regionally, and nationally. Sea Grant works to ensure resources remain safe and sustainable and conflicts are managed effectively.
Safe seafood
Offer annual USDA-mandated training in the application of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles to the safe processing of seafood.
Meet Our Team
Azure Cygler
Fisheries & Aquaculture Specialist
Tel: (401) 874-6197
E-mail: acygler@uri.edu
Robbie Hudson
Fisheries & Aquaculture Specialist
Tel: (401) 874-6218
E-mail: rhudson@uri.edu
Nicole Richard
Seafood Safety Specialist
Tel: (401) 874-2977 | E-mail: nicolerichard@uri.edu
Current Initiatives
Partnership for Research Excellence in Sustainable Seafood (PRESS)
Rhode Island Sea Grant supports PRESS, a URI initiative connecting seafood industry needs with research expertise to address emerging challenges in sustainable seafood production. Sea Grant helps industry members and researchers develop project ideas, identify potential partners, and navigate the process for advancing collaborative research.
New England Seafood Systems Innovation Engine
Rhode Island Sea Grant supports engagement for the New England Seafood Systems Innovation Engine, a regional initiative that brings together the seafood industry, researchers, communities, and other partners to strengthen New England’s seafood economy through innovation and collaboration.
Bivalve Health and Hatchery Research
Rhode Island Sea Grant leads Sea Grant’s national involvement in the Bivalve Health Consortium, which brings together researchers, industry, and extension professionals to address health challenges affecting shellfish aquaculture. The effort supports collaboration and knowledge sharing across the national Sea Grant network and the broader shellfish community.
Rhode Island Shellfish Management
Rhode Island Sea Grant facilitates ongoing updates to the Rhode Island Shellfish Management Plan, bringing together government, industry, and academic partners to strengthen the science, policy, and business of shellfish in state waters.
This work is helping partners advance shared priorities, build connections between wild harvest and aquaculture, bring current science to industry, and increase understanding of the economic, environmental, and social value of Rhode Island’s shellfish resources.
Training & Resources
HACCP Seafood Training
Aquaculture Training
Shellfish Guide
Aquaculture Deep Dive Discussion Series