Virginia Seafood Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Virginia Seafood AREC on waterfront in Hampton

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Online Resources Regarding COVID–19 and food safety for seafood and other food Industries

Latest AREC updates

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Registration Open for Tech Talk "Blue Catfish – The Tasty Apex Predator in the Chesapeake Bay , article
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The invasive blue catfish poses a significant threat to the Chesapeake Bay's ecosystem and local seafood industry. Amidst this challenge lies a unique opportunity — and a delicious one. , redirect
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Virginia Seafood AREC showcases how aquaculture is agriculture at 2024 Virginia Ag Expo , article
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Register Now! Eat More Fish webinar series serves up tips to cook up Blue Catfish while helping the Chesapeake Bay , redirect

Welcome to the Virginia Seafood Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Hampton, VA.

Here at the Virginia Seafood AREC, we work to support the future of the historic seafood industry — in Virginia and beyond! Our extension specialists work with industry and research partners to identify and respond to emerging needs and provide technical guidance to stakeholders in every level of the seafood supply chain. Through technical assistance, training, process validation, value-added product development, and more, we help our stakeholders ensure product quality, safety, and viability.

Recognized as a center of excellence for live feeds and hatchery production technologies, we work to advance aquaculture research and development. A new and expanded research facility opened in 2022 and includes aquaculture research facilities that are highly adjustable with the capacity to operate freshwater, brackish, and saltwater systems.

Additional facilities include a classroom, offices, and laboratories where researchers advance technology in cellular agriculture, alternative proteins, and sustainable food systems. Interwoven with other core center programs, research in economics and marketing covers areas of business development, regulatory impact assessment, and economic impact analysis for industry sectors.