Aquaculture in West Virginia –

By Fred Hays

As president of the West Virginia Aquaculture Association (WVAA), I was asked to write an article on my experience, and perspective of aquaculture in West Virginia.  My representation on the Northeast Regional Aquaculture Council (NRAC) over a number of years has led to greater recognition of the importance of fish farming in West Virginia on a broad level. 

In West Virginia, as in most other states in the US, the development of aquaculture grew from an increasing need for fish, both for recreation and food, which could no longer be met solely by the wild fisheries.  The US Congress has acknowledged the importance of aquaculture in this country by calling it a “must” industry, and has supported research to promote increased aquaculture production.  Overall, aquaculture is viewed as an important agriculture industry that provides a beneficial food source to the public, while also relieving pressure on wild fish stocks.  

Aquaculture is a responsive and responsible industry.  Because they themselves will suffer the most, fish producers tend to be most vigilant regarding water quality and fish health.   In turn, consumers concerned about water quality and fish health should appreciate the commitment of fish farmers to grow healthy fish in a healthy environment.

In West Virginia, aquaculture businesses include both cold and warm water fish production.  Our state has a long established and well-developed trout industry. West Virginia warm water production involves fish typical of our state waters such as bass, catfish, and sunfish but also includes other species such as ornamental fish, baitfish, and freshwater prawns.  Farm-raised fish are popular dining choices and provide consumers with opportunities to meet nutritional recommendations to eat fish twice a week.  Aquaculture also supplies fish for stocking purposes which, subsequently, benefits tourism and other recreational-related industries in West Virginia.

The benefits of aquaculture to the public are numerous and often inter-related. In West Virginia, pay to fish operations are also important aquaculture enterprises.  These businesses offer convenient and fun fishing experiences and utilize fish from both warm water and cold-water aquaculture systems.

My own farm provides a number of species for the public including recreational game fish, ornamental fish, and “working” fish.  “Working” fish, such as Koi and Grass Carp, provide natural weed control for ponds without the need for expensive and potentially damaging chemical treatments.  Koi are water garden favorites as they are a colorful, friendly fish which can quickly become pets.  However, they are also a working fish, known for their veracious appetite for algae (and some aquatic weeds).

I recently received a telephone call that clearly illustrates the nature and positive impact of my fish farming on the landscape of West Virginia.  The caller was a board member of a homeowner’s association that had a lake within its boundaries.  When this board member first called my farm for help two years ago, the lake had become an eyesore and was completely covered with weeds and algae.  At that time, the lake was dead with no fish remaining.  After our discussion, the homeowner’s association decided to treat the community’s five-area lake with Koi and Grass Carp grown at my farm. Two years later, these fish had completely cleaned up the lake without the need for any costly or hazardous chemical treatment.  In addition to addressing conservation issues and preserving water quality, the residents were thrilled with the fish, and are now planning to reintroduce game fish for recreation in the lake.  The benefits to the residents of this community were numerous, and the caller wanted to express his appreciation.

More fish, better fish, healthier fish, and greater diversity are all key benefits from the aquaculture industry in our state.

The West Virginia Aquaculture Association is committed to supporting and promoting the West Virginia Aquaculture industry.  If you are interested in learning more about the Association and/or becoming a member (membership is only $25 per year), please contact the Association Secretary, Mike Nardella, Rainbow Head Farms, 309 John St., Clarksburg, WV 26301. (304) 842-8800,E-mail adhouse@iolink.net.