New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today announced $1.2 million is available through Round 1 of the Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grant program to expand and renew aquaculture operations in Long Island. This first round of funding supports the purchase of aquaculture equipment; the round 2 grant opportunity will be released in the coming months and will be aimed at supporting infrastructure improvements. Funding for this program comes as part of the State’s Blue Food Transformation initiative, first announced in Governor Hochul’s 2024 State of the State proposal, which was created to reinvigorate New York’s aquaculture and wild-caught seafood industries and strengthen local food systems.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Long Island’s aquaculture producers work tirelessly to raise the fresh, abundant seafood that make the region unique among New York agriculture. The funding announced today will help these businesses make much-needed upgrades to their equipment so they can continue bringing these delicacies to tables across the state. I encourage all eligible entities to consider applying.”
Todd Erling, President/CEO, the Farm and Food Growth Fund said, “Long Island has such a significant history rooted in aquaculture, with shellfish and hatchery operations dating back two centuries. It is important that we support the long-term viability and growth of these businesses, many which are generational or tribal operations.