In this episode of "Doing What Works: Exploring the Blue Economy," we delve into the fascinating world of aquaculture and its pivotal role in the blue economy. Join host Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins as she interviews Dr. Gary Fleener, Science, Sustainability, and Farm Education Manager at Hog Island Oyster Company. Dr. Fleener shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of sustainable seafood production, highlighting the importance of ocean stewardship and the environmental benefits of shellfish farming.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
- The evolution of Hog Island Oyster Company and its journey in sustainable aquaculture.
- The environmental benefits of shellfish farming and its contribution to marine ecosystems.
- The challenges and regulatory landscape of aquaculture in California.
- Career opportunities and skills required for success in the aquaculture industry.
About Our Guest
Gary Fleener, a seasoned marine ecologist, is passionate about understanding and protecting our oceans. His extensive experience in fisheries research and management, combined with his practical and scientific approach, ensures the long-term health of marine ecosystems. Gary's work, which focuses on using data and technology to inform sustainable fishing practices, reassures us about the effectiveness of his methods in ocean conservation.
Impactful Quotes
"The ocean was a vast and almost terrifying space that I really didn't understand very well until... My career interests and personal interests had really gravitated from being an ecologist in the mountain landscape to being deeply interested in food systems and foodways."
– Gary Fleener
"My first job was mowing lawns in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at age 12. One day, my dad came home with a brand new mower and said, 'This is for you, son. All you have to do is mow my lawn for me, and you can do whatever else you want with that mower."
– Gary Fleener
"We talk about the ecosystem services largely in terms of as oysters filter out the phytoplankton that they're building their bodies out of, they also filter out a lot of other sediment and debris in the water. They have a remarkable biological function and you know you may have to edit this out but oysters have two poop shoots."
– Gary Fleener
"I think that aquaculture is fundamentally about Food Systems right it’s a way of producing food in in the ocean. Ultimately it’s about growing nutritious food for people in a way that not only is not nature negative but ultimately is nature positive which I think is what an incredible thing."
– Gary Fleener
