The Division plays a key role in the regulation of aquaculture facilities and shellfish processing plants, is responsible for opening/closing of shellfish harvesting waters to protect human health, ensures the continued productivity of oyster reefs through a restoration program and issues leases of submerged state lands for aquaculture.
The creation of this division is unprecedented for a state agriculture department. Florida's Division of Aquaculture is one-of-a-kind and serves a unique industry like no other in the United States.