Title:

A Mobile Mussel Raft (MOMUR) as a Component of an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture System

The Mobile Mussel Raft (MOMUR) is a component of an integrated multi-tropic aquaculture (IMTA) system which allows multiple species to grow simultaneously within a single system. In this system, mussels feed on the nitrogen produced by steelhead trout, and as a result, the water quality improves. This creates a stable network with minimal impact to the surrounding environment. The IMTA began with New Hampshire Sea Grant’s AquaFort which can potentially produce 15 tons of steelhead trout annually, as well as 5 tons of shellfish. The MOMUR will be complimentary to the AquaFort and balance excess nutrient production from the trout by growing blue mussels, and eventually kelp. Additionally, the raft will move to an open shell-fishing site for mussel depuration (cleaning the mussels) and legal harvesting. Through this, the MORUR will produce fresh local seafood to give back to the local community. The MOMUR mission for this year was to create a preliminary design and proof of concept showing not only is this possible but is worthy of attention and continued efforts.

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