Our Mission
The New Hampshire Aquaculture Association (NHAA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, supporting, and advancing the practice of aquaculture in the state of New Hampshire. We serve as a resource hub for fish farmers, pond owners, hobbyists, and anyone interested in the responsible cultivation of aquatic organisms.
Our core objectives include:
- Educating the public about fish farming, pond management, and sustainable aquaculture practices
- Connecting New Hampshire fish farmers with resources, research, and regulatory guidance
- Hosting workshops, field days, and community events for hands-on learning
- Advocating for policies that support small-scale and commercial aquaculture in the Granite State
- Publishing the Gillzette newsletter with seasonal tips, member news, and industry updates
Our History
The New Hampshire Aquaculture Association was established in the 1990s by a group of dedicated fish farmers and pond enthusiasts in the Hillsboro area of New Hampshire. Recognizing the need for a unified voice for the state's growing aquaculture community, founders including Debbie Gile, Melvin Murrel, and other local fish farmers organized the association to share knowledge and advocate for the industry.
From its earliest days, NHAA has been rooted in the rural communities of central New Hampshire, where cold-water trout farming and warm-water pond management have long traditions. The association grew steadily through the late 1990s and 2000s, hosting annual workshops on topics ranging from pond winterization to fish health management.
The Gillzette, NHAA's official newsletter, began publication in 2001 and provided members with seasonal aquaculture advice, profiles of local fish farms, and updates on state regulations. Through partnerships with UNH Cooperative Extension, the NH Fish and Game Department, and the NH Department of Agriculture, NHAA has helped ensure that New Hampshire's aquaculture community has access to the science, support, and guidance it needs.
Aquaculture in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers a diverse landscape for aquaculture. The state's abundant cold-water streams and spring-fed ponds provide ideal conditions for raising rainbow trout, brook trout, and brown trout. Warmer ponds in southern and central New Hampshire support bass, bluegill, crawfish, and catfish farming.
The Granite State's aquaculture industry, while small compared to coastal states, plays an important role in the local economy. Licensed fish raisers supply trout and warm-water species to private pond owners, fee-fishing operations, and restaurants seeking locally raised fish. Pond management services, including harvesting, rehabilitation, and water quality consulting, are also a growing segment of the industry.
With increasing interest in local food production and sustainable agriculture, New Hampshire aquaculture is well-positioned for growth. NHAA continues to support both new and experienced fish farmers as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of raising fish in the northeast.
NHAA Officers
| Position | Name | Role Description |
|---|---|---|
| President | Debbie Gile | Oversees association operations, chairs meetings, and represents NHAA at state and regional events. |
| Vice-President | Ben Wiinikani | Assists the President and fills in during absences; coordinates special projects. |
| Secretary | Klee Dugan | Maintains meeting records, correspondence, and membership rolls. |
| Director of Programs | Melvin Murrel | Plans and organizes workshops, field days, and educational events. |
| Education Coordinator | Cheryl West | Develops educational materials and coordinates outreach to schools and community groups. |
| Webmaster | Anita Weidknecht | Maintains the NHAA website and online communications. |
