Fourteen small businesses on Long Island, New York, have been awarded $3 million to support the aquaculture industry.
The funds come through Round 2 of the Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grant Program. Funding will help these producers make infrastructure upgrades, streamline operations and increase production. The program, which has dedicated a total of $4.2 million to New York’s aquaculture industry through two rounds, is a part of the State’s Blue Food Transformation initiative, first announced in Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2024 State of the State.
“New York State is home to a thriving, unique agriculture industry that doesn’t stop when you reach the shoreline. Long Island’s historic seafood industry is second to none, helping to strengthen local food supply chains, bolster our state’s economy, and upholding a legacy of excellence and dedication to industry,” Hochul said.
The Long Island Aquaculture Infrastructure Grant Program is being administered for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets by the Farm and Food Growth Fund. The Infrastructure Grants fund infrastructure projects, including construction, renovation or installation of buildings, docks, equipment, or permanent or temporary facilities to support aquaculture businesses operating on Long Island.
The list of awardees follows:
- WROC LLC
- Hampton Oyster Co.
- Davy Jones Landing
- Oysterponds Shellfish LLC
- Lucky 13 Oysters
- East Hampton Oyster Co.
- Scrimshaw Enterprises LLC
- Hart Lobster Co.
- Thatch Island
- Peconic Gold Oysters Inc.
- North Fork Big Oyster Corp
- Jeffrey M. Kraus
- Dune Fishery LLC
- Cornelius & Little Ram Oyster Company LLC
Funding awarded through the first round of the program, which was dedicated to purchasing or upgrading equipment, was announced in October. The first round awarded $1.2 million to 17 businesses on Long Island.
Long Island’s shellfish aquaculture industry represents an important component of New York’s agricultural sector and coastal economy, consisting largely of small and family-owned operations that contribute to regional seafood production and employment. According to the most recent USDA Census of Agriculture, the aquaculture industry accounts for more than 25% of farms on Long Island, with 155 operations in Suffolk County and 15 in Nassau County. Combined, the two counties generated over $14.5 million in sales in 2022.
The Blue Food Transformation Initiative was announced in the governor’s 2024 State of the State to increase consumer demand for local food and strengthen the local food system. These investments further the governor’s commitment to boost demand for New York agricultural products, bolster New York’s food supply chain, and ensure all New Yorkers can access fresh, local foods.
