Public perceptions of aquaculture in Maine: The role of place-based values

Public opposition to aquaculture siting has become a significant barrier to growth in Maine, creating delays and unanticipated costs that are especially onerous for beginning farmers. Coupled with this, media coverage of contentious application processes calls into question whether aquaculture has a public perception problem–a problem noted by researchers in studies around the globe. As a result, researchers have put much effort into better understanding public perceptions of aquaculture. Studies have explored what values predict support, what messages are most effective in creating positive perceptions, how people seek out information on aquaculture, and who the most trusted messengers are. Extending this work to residents in the US state of Maine, in 2023 we conducted a representative statewide survey ( n = 769) exploring perceptions of aquaculture, including concerns and perceived benefits along with related values. Despite negative discourse, our survey found that respondents overall are relatively positive about aquaculture —particularly regarding shellfish and seaweed farming . Interestingly, this sentiment does not vary by demographic characteristics or coastal versus inland residency. Instead, positive aquaculture perceptions are predicted by value-related factors including an individual's coastal development priorities, concerns over the growth and size of sea farms, belief that aquaculture provides new opportunities for fishermen and coastal communities, and trust in aquaculture farmers for information on aquaculture. • Most respondents had favorable views of aquaculture–especially shellfish and seaweed aquaculture. • The most trusted messengers for aquaculture information were scientists, followed by fishermen. • People who think aquaculture provides new opportunities for fisherman and coastal towns feel more positive about aquaculture. • Results suggest that place-based values are most important in determining views about aquaculture. • The only aquaculture concern listed on the survey that predicted negative perceptions was the growth and size of sea farms.