Aquaculture and the Postproductive Transition on the Maine Coast

Abstract

Aquaculture is the global food system's fastest growing sector. The postproductive transition—the shift away from commodity production toward more consumption‐oriented land uses—is common in many coastal areas as well. This paper examines the intersection of these trends in a U.S. state, Maine, with expanding aquaculture and extensive coastal, rural economic and demographic change. It examines interactions between coastal landowners and aquaculture farmers at aquaculture lease hearings in the state's three main aquaculture regions. Landowners are often uncertain about aquaculture because it is new and unfamiliar. Farmers use lease hearings to educate coastal landowners about farm operations, and farmers respond to concerns by altering their operations to fit landowners’ priorities. However, comparative analysis of the three regions reveals divergent histories and geographies leading to different levels of conflict. This study shows the value of applying rural postproductive transition theory to coastal regions and aquaculture development.

Key words:

• amenity migration
• aquaculture
• postproductive transition

Additional information

Funding

Sustainable Ecological Aquaculture Network

Notes on contributors

Samuel P. Hanes

Dr. Hanes is an assistant professor of geography at the University of Maine, Orono, Maine 04469; [[email protected]].