National Warmwater Aquaculture Center

Channel and hybrid catfish production, with its associated service industries, contributes millions to Mississippi's economy each year. Considering natural resources and climate, scientific and technical expertise, and commercial infrastructure, the Mississippi Delta is in a unique position to capitalize on the growing demand for aquaculture products. However, the rapidly growing catfish industry is experiencing significant problems that could impede further development unless solutions are found.

Realization of these problems—in combination with the knowledge of the attributes of the Mississippi Delta—provided the incentive and subsequent support for the establishment of the Thad Cochran National Warmwater Aquaculture Center (NWAC) at the Delta Branch Experiment Station in Stoneville, Mississippi.

The mission of NWAC is to provide solutions to the most pressing problems of the aquaculture industry through basic and applied research, extension, and diagnostic services. NWAC scientists conduct research to solve problems that can be solved in the short-term, as well as those that threaten the long-term viability of the industry. NWAC extension activities focus on the dissemination of research-based information to the aquaculture industry.