LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas Catfish Promotion Board today announced $80,417 in funding for research and promotion projects. The selected projects will support the growth and market development of Arkansas’ catfish industry.
“As the birthplace of U.S. commercial catfish farming and the nation’s third‑largest producer, Arkansas plays a defining role in the industry’s success,” said Brad Graham, Catfish Promotion Board Chairman. “Strategic investments from the Catfish Promotion Board ensure continued innovation, visibility, and long‑term growth for Arkansas producers.”
Catfish production is a significant part of Arkansas agriculture, generating $16.3 million in foodsize fish sales in 2024. Arkansas has long supported transparency and consumer confidence in this sector; in 2015, the state enacted a catfish labeling law to ensure consumers can clearly identify the country of origin of catfish sold in retail establishments and encourage consumption of U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish. Through Governor Sanders’ Arkansas Plate Initiative and the recent move of Child Nutrition programs, the Department is working to expand consumption of Arkansas‑grown catfish in school districts statewide.
The Board received six proposals requesting more than $154,000 in funding. Of those, three promotion projects totaling $51,350 and one research project totaling $29,067 were approved for fiscal year 2027. The request for proposals was open from March 11, 2026, to April 1, 2026.
Projects selected for funding are as follows:
Ag Learning Center at Four States Fairgrounds – Expanding Catfish Outreach at the Ag Learning Center
Funding Amount: $10,000
Summary: This project will expand aquaculture education at the Ag Learning Center through interactive lessons and demonstrations focused on Arkansas catfish. It will provide students and families with clear, engaging information about catfish production and its role in the state’s agricultural economy.
Catfish Farmers of Arkansas – Arkansas Grown Catfish
Funding Amount: $16,350
Summary: This project will highlight the quality and value of Arkansas‑grown catfish through event sponsorships, advertising, and processor‑supported promotions. Activities will strengthen consumer awareness and increase demand for products raised by Arkansas farmers.
Catfish Processors, LLC – Arkansas Grown Catfish Promotion
Funding Amount: $25,000
Summary: This project will expand restaurant promotion of Arkansas‑grown catfish through advertising support, menu specials, and in‑store materials such as table tents and kids’ activity sheets. By reducing promotional costs for restaurants, the effort will increase visibility and consumer access to locally raised catfish.
Mississippi State University – Determining Pre-Disposing factors for Aphanocapsa Blooms and Validating Existing Protocols in Arkansas Aquaculture Farms
Funding Amount: $29,067
Summary: This project will identify the environmental conditions that drive Aphanocapsa‑related fish kills and evaluate current monitoring and treatment strategies. Results will help Arkansas producers better predict and manage harmful blooms.
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Media Contact: Ayden Duncan, (501) 813-6012
[email protected]
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