First workshop "Mussel farming in the Baltic: experiences and perspectives"

At the 8^th June 2011, the first workshop about "Mussel farming in the Baltic: experiences and perspectives" took place at our institute. Recent developments and future possibilities were discussed by 26 participants from 5 countries. The range of topics was manifold: Experiences in mussel cultivation from Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Lithuania and Germany gave insights in research as well as practical aspects. Which materials are suitable, which locations are best for mussel development? The integration of mussels in a nutrient cycle (especially Nitrogen) were discussed, mussels could therefore be used as fodder, fertilizer or for human consumption. Further, the question of funding was raised. Local consumption or a trade with nutrient certificates just as subsidies are different possibilities. Especially the use of mussels for improvement of water quality and transparency due to their high filtration capacity was an important topic, which becomes even more pressing in regard to the goals of the Water Framework Directive. In addition, rising water temperatures because of climate change could increase the problem. Mussel farms could be part of a mitigation strategy.

However, mussel cultivation is a relative new topic, at least for some regions in the Baltic. Therefore, research still has to answer many questions and uncertainties.

Program of the workshop

Participants

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