Santa Barbara Mariculture Co

Situated about 3/4-mile off of Hope Ranch near Santa Barbara, California, this farm was conceived and developed to produce top-quality seafood without endangering or degrading the surrounding environment. For the past decade, it has been meeting the demands for the increasing consumption of seafood in the United States by developing its own methodologies based on the successes and failures of past endeavors.

Utilizing submersible long-lines originally developed by the Japanese and a New Zealand style of rope culture for mussels, the farm employs techniques that ensure species thrive without damaging the environment. No chemicals, feeds, or fresh water are added, maintaining the ecological balance. The farm does not exclude large mammals nor harm the ocean floor, viewing itself as a superior model of food production compared to traditional land farming.

Customers can purchase the farm's shellfish at the Saturday Santa Barbara farmers' market or at the fish market on Harbor Way. The farm is also working with the State of California to develop offshore shellfish farms using sustainable techniques, aiming to enrich the quality of life in the community through community awareness and education.