Published by WMTW News on June 7, 2025.
KITTERY, Maine — Maine groups toured a Kittery-based aquaculture business, Saturday, to explore the potential of Maine kelp crops.
Island Institute hosted local and state leadership, students, and aquaculture farmers on a tour of Cold Current Kelp.
The business stands out among other kelp farms in Maine for not using its crop for foodstuffs. Instead, Cold Current refines their kelp into skincare products, like face oils.
“They are interested in the chemical components of kelp, which is the innovation that we need here in Maine,” said Jennifer Seavey, Chief Program Officer for the Island Institute.
The tour didn’t just act as a behind-the-scenes look into the business; it also served to educate guests about the importance of Maine aquaculture farms for the local environment and the local economy.
“Especially with kelp, the market development is really important,” said Seavey. “So, the economic development opportunities are really important for local and state decision makers to understand as well.”
Touring Cold Current was especially important for Island Institute, as it shows off the potential of Maine’s maritime crops beyond the dinnerplate.
(You may experience a paywall.)
