In Southern California, NOAA experts identified 10 prime locations for potential aquaculture development — eight in the Santa Barbara Channel and two in Santa Monica Bay — ranging from 500 to 2,000 acres, totalling 16,500 acres. NOAA found these areas may be suitable for seaweed, shellfish and finfish aquaculture. In the Gulf of Mexico, three locations off the coast of Texas were identified, each ranging in size from 500 to 2,000 acres, totalling 4,500 acres. NOAA found these areas may be suitable for seaweed, shellfish and finfish aquaculture. By expanding domestic aquaculture to complement wild-harvest fisheries, NOAA aims to create jobs, support coastal communities and ensure high-quality, homegrown seafood.