CRMC hires new Aquaculture Coordinator

April 20, 2009, WAKEFIELD – The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council has hired former University of Rhode Island Fisheries Extension Specialist and Fisheries Operations Supervisor David Beutel as its new Aquaculture Coordinator. Beutel begins his work at CRMC on April 27.

As the CRMC’s aquaculture coordinator, Beutel will oversee all of the aquaculture planning and permitting in the state and will work closely with members of the industry, the wild harvesters, and cities and towns. He will also coordinate research and applied aquaculture management and science with experts at URI and Roger Williams University.

“We welcome Dave Beutel to CRMC and are excited about the expertise he brings to our staff,” said CRMC Chairman Michael M. Tikoian. “Dave is a highly-respected fisheries expert in this state, and already has a great working relationship with many members of the industry, including those involved in the Ocean Special Area Management Plan.”

Beutel received two degrees from URI: an Associate of Science degree in fisheries and marine technology in 1979 and a Bachelor of Science degree in fisheries in 1992. He has worked in the fishing industry since 1977, including seven years as a commercial fisherman and eight years as a fishing gear manufacturer. He has worked in fisheries outreach and research for Rhode Island Sea Grant since 1992.

In his research and outreach, Beutel has focused on harvesting methods, fishing gear efficiency and by-catch reduction, and also helped develop educational programs on fishing techniques and fishery issues for the commercial and recreational fishing industries and the general public.

Photo courtesy RI Sea Grant.