Questions? Here are some FAQ’S.
What is MoAA and how do I join?
The Missouri Aquaculture Association is Missouri’s only aquaculture producer’s organization. It serves the common interest of its members as a unified voice to represent and actively promote the causes and issues which affect the industry and its members. For more information about MoAA, visit our home page. To join MoAA, please fill out and submit the membership application.
Is there a fish producer near me?
The MoAA directory should help you locate a local fish producer. The directory is a listing of the individuals and businesses who are MoAA members. It is 28 pages of information on Missouri aquaculture including state organizations, a history of the industry in Missouri, profiles of featured businesses, and categories under which to find products or services offered by member businesses. It is formatted to be printed or viewed online.
What permits are required to raise fish?
All applicable regulations have been compiled on another page; however, no production or environmental permits should be needed if all of the following apply:
- the species and production methods used meet the requirements of the Approved Species List,
- fish production and feed use are below the threshold of the Operating Permit issued by DNR,
- water use is below the Major Water User threshold,
- restricted pesticides are not used, and
- no fish are imported.
Do I need to register my business or have a business license to sell fish?
Yes. All businesses must register with the Missouri Department of Revenue. This may be done online but it is recommended this be done by completing form 2643 and mailing it together with the bond payment. Many questions are answered in the Department’s page. For additional questions, contact the Registration section at 573-751-5860. Check with county officials to determine if a county occupation license is needed to operate a business.
Where can I get help for sick fish?
A list of diagnostic labs as well as other resources are available on our resources page.
Do you have more information on producing fish?
For more information on fish production, check out our resources page.
Is there help for starting an aquaculture business?
For general information on aquaculture production, extension.org is an excellent resource. Visits to established businesses can also provide an often needed reality check. Before starting a business, it is critical to know (but not limited to):
- limiting factors and realistic production estimates for the species
- market for the product – volume, historical and projected prices, preferred size and product form (live, frozen, etc.)
- current and potential competition – regional, national, and global
- construction and operating costs
- regulations which could impact or prevent production
Beginning an aquaculture business requires a great deal of effort on the part of the entrepreneur. However, there are several web sites and organizations that may be of help. Please be aware that there is little “free money” available. To be successful, a new businesses must be based on sound business planning.
Why did I have to sign for the fish feed I bought?
The fish food was probably made with meat and bone meal from a ruminant animal. Under federal rule, any company selling feed products, whether manufactured for fish, poultry, or swine, etc. containing ingredients from ruminant animals (cattle, sheep, goats) is required to keep records of each sale. This does not mean the ruminant protein is bad for fish or other animals. The object is to protect cattle from being fed ruminant protein that has been known to cause BSE (Bovine Spongiform Encephalophathy) if it contains the infectious prion. The reason FDA has allowed ruminant products to be fed to other types of animals is that the disease has never been known to cross the species line – cattle to hogs, cattle to fish, etc.
How do I report a fish scam?
When consumers feel they have not received what they bargained for, the Missouri Attorney General stands ready to help. If an issue cannot be resolved with the seller, following the consumer complaint process may be the best option.
