Calif. The organization brings together officials responsible for aquaculture programs in each state or territory to share ideas about policies, marketing, economics and research.
Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing segments of agriculture in the United States.
As president, Ellis will coordinate the development of a National Aquatic Animal Health Policy with the National Aquaculture Association and other species groups. Other responsiblities include directing meetings and speaking on aquaculture-related issues. Ellis, director of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Aquaculture and Natural Resources Division, has held several environmental program positions at the department since 1975. Currently he is responsible for licensing aquaculture operations and promoting aquacultural production and diversification. He is the primary contact for aquaculture within the regulatory structure of state and federal programs.