HD15 - An Analysis of Organic Statutes and Regulations Which Inhibit Shellfish Aquaculture Operations


Executive Summary:
House Joint Resolution 449 (1995) [Appendix 1] requested that the Virginia Marine Resources Commission study its organic statutes and regulations to identify those which might inhibit the development and operation of shellfish aquaculture facilities.

More specifically the resolution requested the Commission to (i) identify ways to streamline and simplify existing requirements and (ii) remove any unnecessary requirements which might be inhibiting shellfish aquaculture in the Commonwealth.

The Commission was directed to utilize an advisory committee made up of individuals engaged in, or familiar with, shellfish aquaculture operations in Virginia. The Commissioner of Marine Resources made the appointments to this committee based on the input received from staff, the Virginia Shellfish Growers Association, the Governor's Advisory Board on Aquaculture, and expressions of interest by industry members.

The full advisory committee met on four separate occasions. With the exception of one meeting which was hosted by Cherrystone Aquafarms, all committee meetings were held at the Commission's headquarters at 2600 Washington Avenue in Newport News.

The final committee report was presented to the full Marine Resources Commission for consideration and adoption at their regularly scheduled public hearing on November 28, 1995.