Under a grant program, a limited amount of money has been made available to reimburse up to $10,000 for the purchase of qualifying refrigeration equipment. Photo: Louisiana Seafood News
by Kim Hilsenbeck
It has been a bad few years for oyster fishermen, especially those fishing the eastern waters of Louisiana. Bad years equal financially challenging times – especially when it comes to upgrading needed equipment on their boats.
In September of last year, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) launched the first phase of a Seafood Technology and Equipment Grant. Under this grant program, a limited amount of money has been made available to reimburse up to $10,000 for the purchase of qualifying refrigeration equipment.
Refrigeration Vital to Certification Program
Oyster refrigeration is an important part of the Louisiana Wild Seafood Certification Program, passed in 2010 by the Louisiana Legislature. In response, the LDWF established a voluntary certification program for Louisiana wild seafood. The goal is to create a more professional industry, better handling practices and a more consistent, quality product.
Vessel owners will receive approval prior to purchasing or installing anything to ensure they will be reimbursed before they invest any money, according to Jason Froeba, Director of Fisheries Oversight. Photo: Vimeo/Zach Correa
Fisherman operating or who intend to operate with white tags – indicating the oysters are allowed to be exported outside the state for raw consumption– who invest with the new refrigeration equipment may be eligible to receive reimbursement toward the purchase of refrigeration systems for their vessels.
Oyster Fishermen Grant Remains Open for Applications
Encouraging more oyster boat captains to take advantage of the grant, Jason Froeba, Director of Fisheries Oversight, explained “We developed this program to help oyster fishermen pay for a portion of the cost to install refrigeration equipment and meet the new FDA guidelines,” Froeba said.
According to him, vessel owners will receive approval prior to purchasing or installing anything to ensure they will be reimbursed before they invest any money.
“Our goal is to make sure what they buy meets the specifications and that the reimbursement is a smooth process,” Froeba said. “After the installation, we will provide an inspection by licensed refrigeration technicians to check that everything is running properly.”
Froeba said priority will be given to vessels with refrigeration equipment installed prior to October 1, 2012.
To receive more information or to apply for this grant program, contact South Central Planning and Development Commission (SCPDC) to request an application.
SCPDC Contact Information:
P.O. Box 1870, Gray, LA 70359
Toll-free: 800-630-3791
Local: 985-655-1051
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