NWAC EXTENSION
Dr. Jimmy Avery, Extension
Professor
Extension Service Programs
The mission of the NWAC is to provide solutions to the most pressing
problems of the aquaculture industry. As NWAC scientists generate new technology and
information, NWAC extension activities focus on the dissemination of research-based
information to the aquaculture industry. While all NWAC personnel are accessible to the
regions aquaculture producers, the Center has 3.25 full time professionals responsible for
developing educational programs that can be delivered by utilizing the latest technology
and teaching techniques.
Workshops are held to provide producers with hands-on training as well as
classroom style instruction. Farmers are given personalized training on oxygen monitoring
equipment, conducting water quality analysis, identifying phytoplankton responsible for
off-flavor compounds, and computer training on the latest version of a catfish inventory
program (FISHY). Special seminar
programs are routinely presented on various topics such as hatchery management,
off-flavor, fish nutrition, genetics, and start-up considerations. On-farm visits for
site-specific advice continue to be a vital teaching technique. Farmer interactions and
demonstration projects have proven an efficient method of demonstrating the benefits of
various disease management techniques.
An important component of the role of extension is to bring research needs
as expressed by clientele to the attention of NWAC scientists. Research needs are gathered
from advisory committees, commodity boards, extension field staff, and representatives
from industry infrastructure.
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David Wise making
workshop presentations.
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