2026 Kentucky State University Shrimp Farming Symposium

2026 Kentucky State University Shrimp Farming Symposium: Revolutionizing an Industry

2026 Shrimp Symposium Flyer

2026 Shrimp Farming Symposium

April 10-11, 2026
Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm
1525 Mills Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky

This biennial international symposium will bring together aquaculture experts and businesses from around the country and the world. Expert speakers will present and discuss the latest information on shrimp farming and broader cross-cutting topics affecting the industry. Below is a preliminary list of confirmed speakers; ultimately, we expect to have about 15 presenters.
 
Preliminary confirmed speakers:
 
  • Khalid Al-Naif, EXDG – owner, Black Iris Farms, a 10,000-square-foot commercial marine shrimp farming facility in Ann Arbor, Michigan – will discuss how implementation of a commercial project concept can change when setting up a commercial shrimp farm in the United States, focusing on how to succeed in both a harsh northern climate and today’s challenging business landscape.
  • Dr. Craig Browdy – CTO, SyAqua Group, the global leader in shrimp genetics, with decades of experience in multiple shrimp sectors – will provide perspectives on bio-secure systems for high-value shrimp production.
  • Dr. George Chamberlain **New Speaker!** - President, The Center for Responsible Seafood; Strategic Advisor, Global Seafood Alliance - will provide an overview of Global shrimp farming and how to create a more robust industry in the United States.
  • Dr. Arun Dhar – Professor and Director of the Aquaculture Pathology Laboratory at the University of Arizona – will give updates on the status of shrimp diseases globally and the importance of the Specific Pathogen Free diagnosis program.
  • Andre Faul, M.S. – owner and manager of Faul Family Riverside Farm, a mid-size, highly productive shrimp farm in Sulphur, Kentucky – will discuss the opportunities and challenges faced in building and managing a shrimp farm targeting a niche market.
  • Robins McIntosh - Executive Vice President, Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company - will give perspectives on his construction and management of an inland shrimp hatchery; lessons learned and how to go forward.
  • Dr. Andrew Ray – World-renowned indoor shrimp farming expert with more than 20 years of experience – will discuss recent research resulting in shrimp production levels over 15 kg/m² in intensive RAS, as well as key system components and management considerations.
  • Dr. Waldemar Rossi – aquatic animal nutritionist with more than 15 years of research experience, involved in testing a wide variety of innovative diets for shrimp – will discuss the current status of shrimp diet formulations and prospects for the feed industry.
  • Dr. Bert Wecker – CTO, Oceanloop, a high-tech shrimp and fish farming innovation leader in Germany – will discuss the use of AI and reducing CO₂ emissions in shrimp RAS, as well as other technological advancements.
  • Plus, we are adding a student research spotlight session. Stay tuned for details.

Take advantage of our new partnership levels that make your impact go farther!

Shrimp Symposium Partnership Flyer

Transportation Details:

  • Information Coming Soon

Airport:

Maps:

Schedule
Look out for additional updates. Spots are limited, so register early to save your place at this unforgettable event. In addition to the symposium, April is a great time for bourbon distillery tours, outdoor activities, and the excitement of thoroughbred horse racing in central Kentucky.

Registration Information

Registration Link: rebrand.ly/ksushrimp 

Hotel Accommodations

Capital Plaza Hotel 
405 Wilkinson Blvd., Frankfort, KY 40601
  • Check in: Thursday, April 9
  • Check out: Saturday, April 11
  • Rate: $110 a night + tax – includes breakfast 
  • Block of 50 rooms
  • www.capitalplazaky.com and use the 4 digit code (6389) to book your room.
  • Last day to reserve rooms is March 9
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lexington Frankfort 
55 Mill Road, Frankfort, KY 40601
  • Check in: Thursday, April 9 (guests can check in on March 8 if needed)
  • Check out: Saturday, April 11                                                                                  
  • Rate: King Suites $159 or Queen/Queen Suites $169 + tax – includes full hot breakfast buffet
  • Block of 30 rooms
  • https://app.marriott.com/reslink?id=1763717510122&key=GRP&app=resvlink
  • Last day to reserve rooms is March 8

Past Publication & Conference Talks

For additional information, please contact: