Session: Research Posters

Paper Number: 172983

Infrastructure Integrity Assessment of Floating Cage Oyster Farms in the Northern Gulf of Mexico 

Floating cage oyster farms, a prominent off-bottom culturing method, are growing in the Gulf of Mexico due to their inherent advantages. However, their susceptibility to storms and hurricanes presents a significant challenge. This research proposal aims to bridge this critical knowledge gap by conducting a comprehensive study to enhance the resilience of floating cage oyster farms in the Mobile Bay-Mississippi Sound region. The research objectives revolve around the development and implementation of an assessment system specifically tailored for oyster farm infrastructure. Through the creation of a sophisticated three-dimensional fluid-structure-mooring model, validated via laboratory and field experiments, the proposed study will enable accurate simulation of fluid-structure interactions and facilitate the evaluation of realistic farms' resistance to extreme conditions. Furthermore, extensive analysis of long-term environmental data, encompassing factors such as winds, storm surges, waves, and currents, will be undertaken to estimate the precise loading experienced by oyster farms. Extreme analysis techniques will be employed to determine the environmental conditions at various return periods.

The proposed study includes scenario studies to evaluate the effectiveness of storm preparedness measures, such as sinking cages to the seabed during storms. Sensitivity analyses will be conducted to assess the impact of material degradation, farm layout, orientation, and seabed friction on farm survival. These investigations will provide valuable insights into the optimization of farm designs and maintenance practices. The project also involves engaging end-users, particularly oyster farmers, throughout the research process. Farmers will actively participate by providing material supplies, sharing farm layouts and designs, and receiving maintenance recommendations. The research outcomes will directly inform farmers about the safety of their infrastructure under extreme conditions and provide practical approaches to enhance infrastructure integrity.

The research outcomes will be disseminated through publications, project reports, and direct engagement with oyster farmers. The findings of this research will contribute significantly to the development of practical guidelines and policy recommendations aimed at enhancing the resilience of floating cage oyster farms in the face of severe weather events. By identifying key vulnerabilities and proposing adaptive strategies, this study addresses the critical need for robust and resilient oyster farming infrastructure. Strengthening these systems is essential not only for safeguarding aquaculture investments but also for ensuring the continuity of production and food security in coastal communities. Moreover, the research aligns closely with broader priorities in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, promoting climate adaptation, risk mitigation, and environmentally responsible practices. Ultimately, by reducing operational disruptions and minimizing economic losses, the study supports the long-term viability, productivity, and ecological sustainability of floating cage oyster farming systems.

Presenting Author: Arash Pashazadeh University of South Alabama

Presenting Author Biography: Arash Pashazadeh
Ph.D. student in systems engineering at the University of South Alabama. I have worked for ten years as a civil engineer in the field of designing hydraulic, residential, and industrial structures.

Authors:

Arash Pashazadeh University of South Alabama