Our Passion Projects

At Holdfast we focus on both commercial production and R&D, because we believe that a sustainable future for California aquaculture must be based on a sound scientific foundation.

Here are just a few of the current research projects that we're working on to bring innovation to the industry:

Developing the Native California Mussel as a New Aquaculture Species

Holdfast is working with regional collaborators to develop a local and native mussel species for aquaculture production.

Creating Locally Sourced and Locally Adapted Mussel Seed for the Pacific Southwest

Funded by the Pacific State Marine Fisheries Commission, Holdfast is working with Santa Barbara Mariculture to develop high quality, locally sourced and locally adapted blue mussel varieties for Pacific Southwest farmers.

Developing Premium Mussel Products

We are teaming up with culinary experts to produce delicious premium products using locally grown and sustainable mussels. Tasting parties coming soon.

South LA Seafood Hub

In collaboration with Community Services Unlimited (a South Los Angeles based non-profit that has served and empowered the community since 1972) and Santa Barbara Mariculture, Holdfast is proud to launch the South LA Seafood Hub pilot program to ensure equitable access to mussels, an incredibly nutritious and sustainable source of protein.

Ocean Farmers Education Program

Holdfast is collaborating with the Aquarium of the Pacific and USC Sea Grant to develop an interactive educational experience for young children and their families about seaweed aquaculture. Funded by a NOAA-NAAEE Collaborative Aquaculture Literacy mini-grant. Read more about this project and others.

Snapchat Underwater AR

As a consultant for Alta Sea and Snapchat, Holdfast helped develop an underwater augmented reality lens for Snapchat to inspire marine and ocean consciousness!