Blue Economy

Seafood and commercial fishing, access to global markets through shipping and transport, tourism, and recreation all supply thousands of jobs and billions in revenue for North Carolina. When economic activity is in balance with the long-term capacity of the coastal and ocean ecosystems, a blue economy emerges.

Mar 1, 2017

BUILDING A BLUE ECONOMY IN NORTH CAROLINA

The ocean economy contributed $2.1 billion and 43,385 jobs to North Carolina’s economy in 2013, according to a new report by North Carolina Sea Grant and Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions.

Mar 1, 2017

DEVELOPING NEW SEAFOOD PRODUCTS

Americans lead busy, active lives and have little time or desire to cook meals at home. We seek new flavors, textures and unique cuisines, and want options that are convenient to prepare and consume almost anywhere. Fresh, transportable meals featuring minimally processed ingredients, handcrafted quality and bold flavors characterize the most successful pre-prepared meals of the past few years.

Mar 1, 2017

ACCESSIBLE COAST: Discover Innovative N.C. Tourism in ACCESS

Venues across coastal North Carolina enhance visitors’ travel experiences. More than 400 accessible attractions are offered in ACCESS North Carolina, a vacation and travel guide for people with accessibility needs.

Dec 1, 2016

SEA SCIENCE: Growing Oysters at Home in Coastal North Carolina

Gagnon and his wife Korin moved to Emerald Isle from Raleigh. They began by harvesting their own oysters from the wild or buying them from local sources. On a suggestion from Jim Swartzenberg, a former commercial shellfish grower, the couple started growing the bivalves themselves.

Sep 2, 2015

PLANTING THE SEEDS FOR A COMMON WEALTH

That’s what some University of North Carolina Wilmington scientists hope their research will do: Build the oyster aquaculture industry in North Carolina. Seed funding from North Carolina Sea Grant has jump-started two projects that could help the state achieve this goal. These UNCW researchers are developing building blocks that might make it easier and more efficient for those who want to grow oysters in the state.

Sep 1, 2015

PEOPLE AND PLACES: CUT THE CORNER: Drawing Visitors to Northeastern North Carolina

Many who journey to the Outer Banks take Interstate 95 to Rocky Mount, then U.S. 64 straight to the coast, with visions of sandy beaches and lighthouses on their minds. Those coming from the north drive 86 miles of highway, bypassing a shorter 59-mile path lined with historic towns, trails and parks.

Dec 11, 2014

MOVING FISH: Supply and Demand In North Carolina’s Seafood Industry

But this demand and awareness may not help the fishermen at the coast. The commercial fishing industry in North Carolina is at a critical juncture.

Dec 1, 2014

HOME IN AN OYSTER SHELL: New Oyster Aquaculture Operations Grow Seed, Take Root

Joey Daniels shucks an oyster he just pulled from the Roanoke Sound and pops it into his mouth. "Twenty-four parts per thousand," he announces, stating a level of saltiness for the oyster.

Dec 1, 2014

AMAZING COAST: Behind the Scenes: An Aquarium Adventure

Caroline was excited for this day. Her parents had scheduled a special trip to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher for her ninth birthday. She couldn't wait to get inside.

Sep 29, 2014

LOCAL CATCH: TAMING THE TROUT: Burgers Go Fishing

While burgers and trout traditionally appear to belong in different menu categories, Sunburst Trout Farms in Haywood County is trying to erase this distinction. With the help of North Carolina Sea Grant, Sunburst has developed an assortment of trout burgers that feeds the interests of burger and seafood enthusiasts while providing healthier options than traditional fast-food joints.