Annually, the National Aquaculture Association (NAA) recognizes individuals within US aquaculture for their accomplishments which reflect the values and dedication exemplified by Joesph P. McCraren.  Mr. McCraren served as the NAA’s first Executive Director while serving in that leadership role for the US Trout Farmers Association.  Amongst Joe’s many accomplishments was his pivotal role in uniting the aquaculture community to create One Strong Voice, One Strong Industry through NAA advocacy efforts.

Dr. Ralph Elston

During Aquaculture 2025, Sebastian Belle, NAA’s President, presented the McCraren Distinguished Lifetime Contributions to the Aquaculture Industry to Dr. Ralph Elston. Dr. Elston has been working in support of sustainable aquaculture development and the realm of aquatic animal health in the U.S. since 1976. He is the President of AquaTechnics, LLC, a veterinary and laboratory practice for fish and shellfish specializing in fish and shellfish management, disease control and disease diagnostics in the state of Washington. Ralph and his company have been critical partners to the Pacific Northwest farming communities as well as many associations, state and federal agencies. Aquatechnics has supported the export of millions of healthy cultured aquatic animals around the world thereby supporting the farms and the entire United States. Unfortunately, Dr. Elston could not attend Aquaculture 2025 and we will be presenting the award at a later date.

The NAA also recognized two recipients for McCraren Outstanding Contributions in Promoting the Growth of US Aquaculture.

Adam Heinrich

Adam Heinrich is the driving force behind the operation of the world’s largest ornamental marine aquaculture facility: Ocean, Reefs and Aquariums. The fish he raises are in millions of homes around the world. His passion pushes developments at a commercial level in every aspect of marine aquaculture from broodstock acquisition, live feed production, new larval rearing techniques and fish nutrition and health. There is truly no one else doing what Adam is doing for saltwater fish and the aquarium industry. His work in creating unique and exclusive designer clownfish varieties further advances passion for marine life and marine preservation in ways no other program is capable of.  Unfortunately, Adam could not attend Aquaculture 2025 and we will be presenting the award to him at a later date.

Dr. Michael Rust (right) and Paul Zajicek (left)

Dr. Michael Rust has provided significant support for the advancement of marine farming from his role as a research scientist in fish nutrition, a science advisor to the Office of Aquaculture at NOAA Fisheries and in his current role as Senior Research Fellow at Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute.  His expertise has allowed him to act as a respected authority to counteract much of the negative rhetoric associated with marine farming by conducting and citing the best science available to address these issues. 

The National Aquaculture Association very rarely recognizes individuals with special awards.  

This year is an exception. In recognition of a remarkable career, dedication, and significant contributions in the fields of aquaculture and seafood strategies, the National Aquaculture Association Board of Directors and membership recognized and honored Dr. Michael Rubino with a Distinguished Career Award.

Dr. Michael Rubino (right), Paul Zajicek (center) and Sebastian Belle (left)

Dr. Rubino provided outstanding leadership as Director of the Office of Aquaculture at NOAA Fisheries where he built a robust aquaculture program that supports the growth of aquaculture. His contributions as a Co-Chair of the interagency Subcommittee on Aquaculture, part of the White House's National Science and Technology Council, helped to pave the way to the updated National Aquaculture Development Plan. Through his natural ability to develop and build partnerships with seafood farmers, fishermen, scientists, state and federal agency staff, tribes and others, U.S. seafood industries has advanced. His exceptional achievements have made a difference to the aquaculture community and will have a lasting impact, which we will continue to celebrate.