Recirculating Aquaculture Systems Course

The course was initially held at Cornell University, but in 1999 it was moved to the Freshwater Institute as a combined Cornell University/Freshwater Institute course. The combined course continued through 2006, after which the course was taught independently by both institutions until Cornell University stopped offering a classroom course. Course participation has expanded from university extension associates to currently include representatives from commercial fish farms, government fish hatcheries, tribal fish hatcheries, universities, research organizations, and fish and wildlife organizations. Current course content covers the fundamentals of water recirculating systems for fish culture including unit processes, fish health and biosecurity, system operations and maintenance and water quality monitoring. In 2024 we added modules covering emergency response, AI technology, finishing and harvesting and troubleshooting.

Course topics include the following:

Participants will receive a binder of all presentations and the latest edition of the book, Recirculating Aquaculture. The course includes a tour of the RAS facility at Freshwater Institute for hands-on explanation of the engineering and operation. Custom variations of the four-day course (e.g., two-day versions) are available upon request.

Course Instructors

Freshwater Institute staff

2025 RAS Course

The 2025 RAS Course is planned for the week of August 18-21 in Shepherdstown, West Virginia at the National Conservation Training Center. The course includes a tour of the RAS facilities at the Freshwater Institute.

Registration

Course registration includes course materials, transport to/from the tour of the Freshwater Institute and unlimited coffee and drinks. Lodging and meals are not included in registration.

Registration begins in summer 2025.

Lodging

National Conservation Training Center
698 Conservation Way
Shepherdstown, WV 25414

NCTC’s lodging and meals are a package cost based on current GSA guidelines. CLICK HERE for rates. Reservations to begin Summer 2025.