Duke University students recently partnered with Carteret County, N.C., fishermen to launch the region’s first community-supported fishery to sell local seafood.
The Walking Fish program allows consumers to buy shares entitling them to weekly or bi-weekly seafood deliveries. Members can buy full or half shares and select between fillets or H&G fish. Shares range from USD 70 to 420 (EUR 48.85 to 293.08).
The seafood consumers receive varies weekly, depending on seasonal availability and weather. Species include flounder, triggerfish, black drum, mullet, clams and shrimp.
The program’s first seafood delivery to Durham, N.C.-area shareholders is slated for 17 September. The 12-week program runs through 10 December. Profits support Carteret County fisheries and encourage environmental stewardship.
If the program is successful this fall, the students plan to offer another 12-week program this spring.
“Our goal is to increase access to locally harvested fish, let consumers know where and how their seafood was caught and, ultimately, strengthen our local food system,” said Joshua Still, who helped set up the Walking Fish program and is one of 10 Duke students seeking a master’s degree in environmental management. “Buying direct from local sources brings in more income for local producers and helps promote more sustainable fishing practices.”
