USDA Grants $2 Million to Expand Processing of Invasive Catfish

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a significant investment of $2 million allocated to two seafood processors located in Maryland and Illinois. This funding is aimed at enhancing the capacity for processing invasive wild-caught catfish, an initiative that not only addresses ecological challenges but also promotes economic growth in rural communities.

Targeting Invasive Catfish Populations

The grants, issued through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program, focus on reducing invasive catfish populations, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay region. The initiative is designed to bolster economic opportunities while mitigating the environmental impact of these non-native species.

“This investment in processing invasive wild-caught catfish not only solves a problem but also adds to the ways the USDA is supporting economic prosperity in rural communities,” said J.R. Claeys, administrator of USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Programs.

Investment Details

BSA Seafood LLC, based in Denton, Maryland, is set to receive $1 million to enhance its processing capabilities. The funds will be used to purchase and install new equipment, enabling the company to source invasive blue catfish directly from regional watermen. With this expansion, BSA Seafood aims to process over 500,000 pounds of invasive blue catfish annually, leading to the creation of 20 full-time positions and the retention of 15 existing jobs.

Chippin Inc., a prominent fish processor and pet food brand located in Arlington, Virginia, will also receive $1 million for upgrades at its processing facility in Valmeyer, Illinois. These enhancements will assist in scaling up the processing of catfish for the pet food market.

Implications for Retail and Foodservice

The grants are expected to have significant repercussions for grocery retailers and foodservice buyers. BSA Seafood’s increased processing capacity could lead to greater availability of domestically sourced, wild-caught catfish products. Invasive blue catfish, now recognized as a sustainable protein choice, could see enhanced market access due to improved processing infrastructure.

About the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program

This USDA program provides financial grants to independent processors aiming to expand their capacity and improve supply chain resilience. Eligible applicants include for-profit and non-profit organizations, producer-owned cooperatives, tribes, state and local government entities, among others. This funding round specifically targets facilities engaged in processing invasive wild-caught catfish within the U.S. or its territories.

Since its inception, the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program has awarded more than $200 million to independent businesses, resulting in the creation of thousands of jobs across the nation.

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