U.S. Caribbean Oyster Aquaculture Learning Exchange

Aquaculture is the world’s fastest growing form of food production. As the industry expands, TNC’s Aquaculture Program is implementing solutions to not only mitigate its potential adverse effects but actively contribute to ocean health, in a process known as restorative aquaculture. TNC’s work on restorative aquaculture spans several countries and focuses on promoting cutting-edge science, developing catalytic financing, supporting on-the ground partnerships, and advancing policy and tools to ensure aquaculture grows in a manner that benefits ecosystems.

TNC has been working in Puerto Rico (PR) and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) for more than a decade. Oyster aquaculture in the U.S. Caribbean is at a small, experimental stage, but the industry could provide alternative or supplemental livelihoods and positive environmental impacts if managed with restorative practices. Several studies have suggested that the cultivation of native oyster species such as mangrove oysters (C. rhizophorae) and Atlantic pearl oysters (P. imbricata) could be a feasible industry in the region, though it has yet to be fully developed. The industry’s slow growth may be due to a range of factors, including the lack of a regulatory framework and enabling policies, insufficient upstream (e.g., hatcheries and nurseries) and downstream (e.g., processing and depuration facilities) infrastructure, and lack of farming knowledge.

To advance the development of sustainable oyster aquaculture in the Caribbean, TNC was awarded funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) through the Caribbean Partners for Conservation program. TNC’s project, titled “Catalyzing a U.S. Caribbean Restorative Oyster Aquaculture Industry,” provides support through capacity building activities, the development of supporting infrastructure, education on restorative and sustainable practices, and improved access to sustainable farming inputs.

This report summarizes the implementation of Objective 1 of this agreement between TNC and NRCS: Oyster Aquaculture Learning Exchange. TNC planned and executed this learning exchange, which took place from August 5 to 7, 2025, in the New England area. The appendix of this document includes the agenda and attendance list, among other reference materials shared with participants.