The cultivation of clams and oysters is a rapidly growing industry, and facilities at UNCW offer ample opportunities for innovative research focused on developing new technologies for shellfish aquaculture. Ongoing research at UNCW's Aquaculture Facility includes the use of bivalves to mitigate the environmental impacts of finfish culture. The seawater system and aquaculture pad at the Center for Marine Science offer additional resources to support graduate student research in the field of marine aquaculture. The close proximity to shellfish producing areas provides students opportunities to work with local growers on scientific issues confronting the industry.