


Kualoa Ranch raises shrimp, oysters, and tilapia in the waters of Kaneohe, Oahu, Hawaii.
Established in 1850, Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000 acre private nature reserve, working cattle ranch and farm, and agritourism location. Located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, the ranch is increasing sustainable food opportunities for local communities.
At Kualoa, a variety of sustainable aquaculture methods are utilized to grow oysters, shrimp, and tilapia. Pacific White Shrimp and tilapia are both farmed within the aquaculture ponds of the Pahalona Agriculture Center. Pacific oysters are grown onsite using floating baskets in the Moli`i Fishpond. These species are sold directly to consumers, as well as offered as prepared dishes in the reserve’s onsite restaurant.
Moli`i Fishpond is one of just four original Hawaiian fishponds remaining on Oahu. This 153-acre pond is estimated to be between 800 and 1,000 years old, and much of the original structure is still intact. Originally used by Hawaiians to fatten freshly caught fish until ready to eat, many fishponds have since fallen into disrepair. But as Kualoa Ranch demonstrates, these ponds are still an important source of food production on the island. By utilizing a traditional fishpond for shellfish aquaculture, these growers are providing high quality, fresh, and sustainable seafood for locals and tourists alike.
The ranch has been a filming location for over 70 Hollywood movies since the 1950’s, including Jumanji, Jurassic Park, and 50 First Dates.
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To learn more about Kualoa Ranch, visit their website.
The Tide to Table series profiles members of the aquaculture community, who provide valuable jobs and increase access to fresh, sustainably sourced American seafood. Aquaculture is about more than seafood production. It also promotes ecosystem stewardship, coastal communities, and economic opportunities.
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