A White Paper on the status and needs of aquaculture extension outreach for the North Central Region

The North Central Regional Aquaculture Center (NCRAC) is one of five Regional Aquaculture Centers administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u27s Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (USDA CSREES). These Centers work together within the broader, integrated research/extension aquaculture program of USDA to advance a well developed and sustainable aquaculture industry in the United States. NCRAC relies on leaders in the diverse aquaculture industry for guidance and direction in its programs. An Industry Advisory Council (IAC) identifies program priorities. A Technical Committee (TC) works with the IAC to formulate projects that address industry priorities. Regional programs are coordinated with activities of other Centers to avoid duplication, yet still address regional differences. Teams of researchers and extension aquaculture specialists from North Central Region (NCR) universities, public agencies, and the private sector develop and execute projects to solve priority problems. A Board of Directors oversees administration and management of NCRAC\u27s activities