Using Virtual Platforms to Convene and Engage Diverse Sectors of the Emerging Seaweed Aquaculture Industry

Engaging relevant stakeholders, specifically those with opposing views, is a challenge many Extension professionals face. Employing practical methods to engage opposing sectors is critical in implementing projects to ensure long-term success. Advocacy-driven messaging has fueled interest in seaweed farming, however, existing practical challenges have led to frustration from relevant sectors. The National Seaweed Hub serves as a central clearinghouse for available science-based, non-advocate, and practical resources related to the emerging domestic seaweed aquaculture industry. Through facilitated sector-driven work groups and other engagement activities, seaweed sectors collaborated and strategized to generate implementable projects, ideas and resources targeting barriers to industry expansion. Grant no. NOAA-OAR-SG-2019-2005963