Exploring Virginia’s Seafood Research Hub
As a new member of the aquaculture industry, I’ve found that the best way to get my bearings is to absorb as much information as possible and take advantage of touring the many state-of-the-art research facilities that my home state of Virginia has to offer.
That being said, if you’ve never heard of the Virginia Seafood Agricultural Research and Extension Center (AREC), you’re not alone. But you should be! Tucked along the working waterfront of Hampton, Va., sits Virginia Tech’s seafood research facility, which has been supporting the future of the seafood industry in Virginia and beyond for 50 years.
I recently had the opportunity to visit the facility for the first time and was left wholly impressed and inspired by its research and programming — not to mention my time with its mascot, Paco the pacu fish.
Facility Overview
The Virginia Seafood AREC has called Hampton home since 1975, but in 2022, it transitioned to a brand-new, $10 million, three-story research complex just next door to its previous location. The center works collaboratively with researchers, Extension agents and industry members to address the challenges and needs of its seafood and aquaculture stakeholders, ensuring a safe, sustainable and wholesome seafood supply.
A Center of Excellence
Recognized as a center of excellence for its live feeds and hatchery production technologies, the Center’s aquaculture program is highly adjustable and responsive to research needs. What does “highly adjustable” mean? Depending on stakeholder needs, the lab has the capacity to simulate water conditions of any kind, from freshwater, saltwater and brackish to matching water temperatures across all corners of the U.S. This flexibility makes the center an optimal partner for nationwide aquaculture research, all conducted using recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS).
The center also houses microbiological laboratories where researchers advance technology in cellular agriculture, alternative proteins and sustainable food systems. Woven throughout all of its core programs, research in economics and marketing covers areas such as business development, regulatory challenges facing aquaculture producers and economic impact analysis, all aimed at strengthening the commonwealth’s #1 industry: agriculture.
Outreach Initiatives
One of the highlights of my tour was learning about the center’s outreach work. Tiffany Wood Mahler, K-12 outreach and engagement coordinator at the Center, described a project her team is developing to bring the Mid-Atlantic aquaculture industry to life for younger audiences.
“Most aquaculture audiences are for high school or college grads,” Mahler said. “I want to create programming that is digestible for learners of all ages, and make it fun for everyone.”
As someone who knew very little about the aquaculture industry until recently, I love the idea of introducing the next generation to this evolving field at an earlier age.
Come See It for Yourself
This overview is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Virginia Seafood AREC’s impact and research. If you want to learn more, meet the team at their open house on June 20, 2026! Enjoy an afternoon exploring the facility, participating in interactive activities for all ages and speaking with seafood industry members. Registration is free.
Virginia Seafood Agricultural Research and Extension Center (VSAREC) Open House
📅 June 20, 2026
⏰ 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
📍 15 Rudd Ln., Hampton, VA 23669
If your aquaculture farm or lab would like a featured article on the AIE, please email Madelyn Balser (mbalser@vaseagrant.org) to schedule a meeting or facilitate an in-person visit.
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