Background

Early Years of the UAPB Fisheries Program

The fisheries program at UAPB began in 1974 with the construction of the first aquaculture research ponds.  The emphasis in the early years was on research directed towards small-scale aquaculture.

B.S. Program Initiated in 1980

The only B.S. program in Fisheries Biology in Arkansas, UAPB has graduated over 50 state and federal agencies, academia, and private industry.  Undergraduates benefit from small classes taught in the new Applied Sciences Building by professors active in research and extension.  The AQFI undergraduate computer lab, opened in spring 2002, ensures easy access to current technology.  Student internships create unique paid research opportunities, and generous scholarships are offered by the Department as well as the BRD Scholars Program and many others.

Student Sub-unit of AFS Established

Since its establishment in 1992, the student AFS sub-unit has been involved in may activities in the fisheries community and in the Pine Bluff area.  The unit has sponsored seminars and exchanges with other student sub-units.  Community service events have included participating in the great Arkansas Clean-up, the Salvation Army Angel Tree program, UAPB Homecoming Parade, and organizing the Pine Bluff Youth Fishing Derby.  The Sub-unit also goes on an annual camping trip in different parts of Arkansas to experience the "Natural State".

M.S. Program Established in 1997

Since its establishment in 1997, graduate students in Aquaculture/Fisheries have been from seven different countries and 15 states in the United States.  The AFC offers its graduate students 16 graduate level courses.  The majority of these combine lectures with laboratory experiences to prepare students for the future.  Research areas include fish nutrition, fish, water quality, pond & hatchery management, larval fish ecology, aquatic toxicology, fisheries management, aquaculture economics & marketing, and human dimensions.