MMEERSET Phase One: Developing Platform-Based Offshore Aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf Offshore Research Institute (GORI), in collaboration with Louisiana State University, LUMCON, NOAA, and Innovasea Systems Inc., conducted a groundbreaking feasibility study on repurposing retired oil and gas platforms for sustainable offshore aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico.
The project evaluated two former platform sites near North Padre Island, Texas—known as Station Padre—to determine economic viability, spatial suitability, and environmental conditions for establishing multi-use aquaculture operations. Results showed that cobia production could be cost-competitive under realistic scenarios, while red drum presented greater challenges. Environmental data collected confirmed that the site experiences high-energy open-ocean conditions suitable for advanced submersible aquaculture systems.
This study represents a critical first step toward integrating seafood production, renewable energy, and ocean conservation within existing offshore infrastructure—paving the way for sustainable blue economy growth in the Gulf region.
GORI’s MMEERSET Phase One project explores how Gulf oil and gas platforms can support sustainable offshore aquaculture. Focusing on Station Padre, the study found strong economic potential for cobia culture and identified 77% of the area as suitable for future development.
GORI Final Report to GSMFC – January 30, 2021