International aquaculture extension

Kevin FitzsimmonsUniversity of Arizona

3rd National Aquaculture Extension Conference

Tucson Arizona

April 2003

OverviewDiscuss benefits and concernsHow to get involvedWhat to expect

Benefits (industry and personal)Learn about other aquacultureImprove professional and personal

skillsMay be able to supplement income

Aquaculture rootsAsiaEuropeMost of industry is not in the US

Global economy

Familiar with competitors regulations, business models and future directions

Understand future industry trends and be able to share with domestic clients

May develop customers for US suppliers (equipment, feeds, technology)

Concerns (industry and personal)

Sharing US industry info with competitors

Employed by government agenciesTime is diverted from domestic

clientsMay be physically dangerous

How to get involved with international work

Peace Corps Agency for International Development USDA and Sea Grant JICA, DANIKA, CSIRO, other national agencies Multinational agencies (UN-FAO, Fish Center -

International Aquaculture Non-governmental organizations Private sector and development banks

US Agency for International Development

1. Aquaculture CRSP

2. Farmer to Farmer Program

3. Florida A&M

4. Land o Lakes Foundation

Private sector consulting

Vendors - (Feed companies, equipment vendors)

Producers Foreign governments

What to expect

1. Chance to see many types of aquaculture not practiced in US (hi-tech and low-tech).2. High class living and rough subsistence living.3. Willingness to be “out of loop” (not understanding language, culture, traditions) and out of “control”.4. Long hours, poor travel conditions, away from family5. Develop appreciation for other cultures6. Appreciate home7. Complaints from clientele that what you were doing was detrimental to them

What to expect

Conclusions

Great opportunities for personal and professional growth

Opportunity to benefit your clientele Some clientele will criticize Not for everyone Chance to see the world, help the poor and

feel that you have made a difference