NEWPORT MUSSELS LAUNCHES PERMITTING PROCESS

Newport mussels launches permitting process. Newport Mussels launches permitting process for first commercial-scale mussel farm in North Atlantic federal waters

Newport Mussels, the first proposed commercial-scale mussel farm in North Atlantic federal waters, has launched its federal permitting process. The project is designed to produce more than 12 million pounds of sustainably grown, protein-rich blue mussels each year, harvested in federal waters and landed in Newport Rhode Island to strengthen the region’s working waterfront and blue economy.

Situated in federal waters 17 nm from Newport RI, and designed and sited to maximise environmental benefits and minimise user conflict, the farm would employ a proven suspended grow-out system, specifically engineered for the offshore site conditions. The location was identified through ecosystem-based site suitability analysis conducted in partnership with NOAA’s National Centres for Coastal Ocean Science and further refined through engagement with protected species experts, habitat biologists, mariners, and commercial fishing stakeholders.

“From day one, our goal has been simple: grow low-impact, protein-rich seafood that restores ocean health and supports maritime communities,” said Kerian Fennelly, Founder & CEO of Newport Mussels. “Beginning the permitting phase is a major milestone on that path. Newport has a proud maritime legacy, and we’re excited to connect that heritage with a new model for regenerative ocean farming that delivers reliable, U.S. grown protein at meaningful scale.”

Newport Mussels Founder Kerian Fennelly has 27 years of experience on the water; first as a commercial fisherman, fishing 800 lobster pots in Southern New England federal waters, and now as an oyster farmer. He currently farms oysters on more than 78 acres in Westport Massachusetts and also owns and operates Westport Sea Farms, the first oyster tasting room in Massachusetts.

Mussels are recognised as one of the most climate-friendly and efficient animal protein sources: they require no freshwater, feed, or fertiliser. Mussels also filter and improve water quality by removing excess nutrients. Mussel farming has a fraction of the carbon footprint of land-based animal protein production. By producing at scale in U.S. waters, Newport Mussels aims to reduce reliance on imports, improve regional food security, and demonstrate how aquaculture can contribute positively to ecosystems and coastal economies.

At full buildout, Newport Mussels would produce enough mussels to offset one-third of the current 28M lb trade deficit.

“This is exactly the kind of project envisioned to grow sustainable U.S. domestic seafood production and begin to reduce the $20B U.S. seafood trade deficit,” said Chris Schillaci, Project Manager at Newport Mussels. “Newport Mussels leverages decades of U.S. investment in aquaculture science and policy development and represents perfect alignment with regional and national goals for the blue economy and aquaculture development.”

Schillaci spent 10 years developing aquaculture and seafood safety policy at the state and federal level with NOAA before joining the Newport Mussels team in May of 2025.

The project requires authorisation from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, to construct and maintain the farm. The permitting process will include consultation with NOAA Fisheries and U.S Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure the farm poses minimal concerns related to protected species and fisheries habitat. In addition, the project will undergo review by the US Coast Guard related to navigation safety and consistency review by the states of Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

When operational, the project is expected to support new jobs across vessel construction, farm operations, processing, logistics, and sales. Based on NOAA Fisheries’ economic multiplier, Newport Mussels will create a $45-90M annual economic impact across Rhode Island and the region.

About Newport Mussels

Newport Mussels is developing the first commercial-scale mussel farm in North Atlantic federal waters, 17 nautical miles from Newport. At full operation, the project will produce over 12 million pounds of sustainable, protein-rich mussels annually. The farm’s siting, gear design, and stakeholder engagement prioritise environmental stewardship, safe navigation, and compatibility with maritime users and links restorative ocean innovation to a legacy coastal community. www.newportmussels.com

Image: Kerian Fennelly, Founder & CEO. Newport Mussels