The Middlesex County Economic Development Authority, in partnership with Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement, has launched a regional survey to gather input on the assets, needs, and opportunities that could support the blue catfish industry across the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck.
ABOUT THE SURVEY
The survey is a data-collection step within the EDA’s ongoing “River to Table” Blue Catfish Study, funded by a $99,840 GO Virginia Region 6 grant awarded to the Middlesex EDA in August 2025. It is designed to identify existing regional assets and infrastructure, as well as opportunities to strengthen harvesting, processing, distribution, markets, and other parts of the blue catfish supply chain.
The survey takes approximately five minutes to complete and is anonymous.
WHO SHOULD RESPOND
The EDA and Virginia Tech are seeking input from anyone with insight into the region’s seafood industry, waterfront assets, or opportunities connected to blue catfish, including watermen, processors, waterfront businesses, and community members across the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck.
TAKE THE SURVEY
Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck Blue Catfish Industry Survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_dgJngL5Q4u6imSG
WHY IT MATTERS
Blue catfish is an invasive species affecting native populations of blue crab, striped bass, and other species with significant economic and historical value to the region. The Blue Catfish Study is examining how commercial harvest and processing of blue catfish could both protect native species and build a new regional industry. Survey responses will help strengthen the study’s asset inventory and inform prioritization as the project moves forward.
Read about the original grant: Middlesex County EDA Awarded $99,840 for Blue Catfish