Aquaculture producers and those interested in fish farming are invited to attend the annual Aquaculture Forum Saturday, Jan. 21, in the Assembly Hall of West Virginia University’s Jackson’s Mill State 4-H Camp and Lifelong Learning Center near Weston.

Drawing participants from West Virginia and surrounding states, the popular event features a variety of fish production and marketing presentations, a showcase of West Virginia aquaculture products and posters with the latest aquaculture research.

Besides vendor booths and door prizes, attractions include the business meeting of the West Virginia Aquaculture Association and opportunities to speak withfish folksfrom the region.

Forum sponsors are West Virginia University Extension Service, West Virginia Department of Agriculture and West Virginia Aquaculture Association.

The program will open with the annual industry update, followed by significant details selected from recent advances in aquaculture research.

During the day, presentations will focus on potential contaminants in fish; comparisons of farm-raised fish with fish from wild sources; steps for setting up a water garden; procedures for enhancing private ponds or streams with trout; tips on pond management; and the culture of aquatic plants for ornamental and restoration markets.

Speakers include Ken Semmens, aquaculture specialist, WVU Extension Service; Dan Miller, research associate, WVU Extension Service; Fred Hays, president, West Virginia Aquaculture Association; and Andy Lazur, aquaculture specialist, Maryland Sea Grant Extension Program.

The registration fee is $20. Registrations will be accepted the day of the forum, beginning at 8:30 a.m.

More details about the forum and registration are available at county WVU Extension Service offices and on the Web atwww.wvu.edu/~agexten/aquaculture/index.htm

Information is also available from Becky Casteel, WVU Extension Service, at 304-293-6131, ext. 4231, or Becky.Casteel@mail.wvu.edu