Representatives     Memorandum of Understanding

In 1981, a cooperative agreement between the Missouri Fish Farmer's Association (MFFA), Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) was signed to create the Missouri Aquaculture Advisory Council (MAAC).  MAAC was assigned the responsibility to develop an aquaculture plan for the state of Missouri.  The plan, "Aquaculture in Missouri: A Perspective and Plan" documents the needs of the industry and presents a listing of the respective roles of the Missouri Department of Conservation, the University of Missouri-Columbia, Missouri Department of Agriculture ,and the Missouri Fish Farmers Association.  In 1994, MFFA, MDA, and MDC realized that the 1981 plan was  out of date and MAAC was not accomplishing results.  MDA Director John Saunders and MDC Director Jerry Presley addressed the problem by forming the Missouri Aquaculture Task Force.  The Task Force provided five recommendations to the Directors.  One in particular suggested the formation of the Missouri Aquaculture Coordinating Council (MACC).  MACC is responsible for developing a strategic plan for aquaculture in Missouri and coordinating aquaculture interests and development in Missouri.  MACC operates under a Memorandum of Understanding between the Missouri Aquaculture Association, the University of Missouri-Columbia, Missouri Departments of Agriculture, Conservation, Natural Resources, and Economic Development. One representative each from the Missouri Senate and House of Representatives are also part of the Council.