Page 99 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2025

previously unsuitable,” said Joe Spraggins, MDMR executive director. “It’s a critical step forward in supporting and strengthening Mississippi’s oyster industry.”
The OBOA program was launched to help rebuild the state’s oyster industry following years of natural and man- made disasters that decimated traditional reefs. In addition to environmental resilience, off-bottom aquaculture offers economic benefits, allowing harvesters to produce premium oysters for the half-shell market—one of the most lucrative segments of the seafood industry.
Though the technique requires a higher initial investment
of time, labor and capital, it gives farmers more control
over growing conditions and improves product consistency. Through comprehensive training, MDMR helps both new and experienced growers navigate the technical and business aspects of oyster farming.
The latest advancement in the program is the Aquaculture Advanced Seed Production Training Program, a partnership between MDMR and the University of Southern Mississippi’s Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center (TCMAC). As of July 12, participants have entered the production phase, working hands-on with a mobile oyster hatchery.
The hatchery phase includes spawning oysters, larval care, setting pediveligers and grading seed—skills that are critical to developing local hatchery capacity and reducing dependence on out-of-state seed suppliers.
“This partnership with USM is a major step forward,” said SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
FAR LEFT: Freshly harvested oysters get a tumble and wash.
ABOVE LEFT: Harvesting licensed and permitted oysters. LEFT: Off-bottom leases.
Spraggins. “Entering this next phase with the mobile hatchery will help participants build on the long-term success of the program and helps ensure a more sustainable future for the seafood industry.”
The program offers 100 hours of free advanced training in hatchery techniques, including water quality management, broodstock conditioning, larval rearing and seed production. Training takes place on USM’s TCMAC campus and in the field using the mobile hatchery, where students gain real-world experience in aquaculture operations.
“USM is happy to work with MDMR and the state to create new opportunities in the seafood industry,” said Dr. Reginald Blaylock, TCMAC director. “This ensures that the legacy of the seafood industry on the Coast lives on in posterity.”
Two production runs will take place in 2025, with one spawning event in July and another planned in September. The initiative supports the long-term goal of strengthening Mississippi’s commercial oyster industry by building local expertise and infrastructure.
The MDMR remains committed to enhancing, protecting and conserving Mississippi’s marine interests, including public wetlands, marine life and coastal resources. Through programs like OBOA, the agency aims to boost economic development while maintaining environmental sustainability.
For more information on the OBOA program or upcoming training opportunities, visit www.dmr.ms.gov or email oyster@dmr.ms.gov.
August 2025 | 99