Oregon’s Blue Foods Momentum Continues: Preliminary Forum Report Released

Earlier this month, Oregon’s blue foods leaders gathered in Portland for two back-to-back events that signaled momentum and coordination across the state’s blue foods economy.

The Seafaring Speakeasy, held at The Redd, brought nearly 350 guests together to launch the Winter Waters culinary series and celebrate the creativity driving Oregon’s coastal food systems. From chef-led salmon demonstrations to innovative products like locally tinned albacore and value-added seafood goods, the evening spotlighted stewardship, full utilization, and the intersection of art and science.

The following day, 150 entrepreneurs, chefs, fishers, artists, policymakers, and students reconvened for the Seafare Symposium — a working session focused on advancing a flourishing blue foods economy. Through rapid-fire pitches and breakout work groups, participants tackled priorities including 100% fish utilization, storytelling through art, and policy pathways aligned with Oregon’s legislative short session. Conversations also highlighted efforts to establish a Blue Economy Task Force and secure funding for industrial symbiosis and waste reduction strategies.

Together, the events demonstrated that Oregon’s blue economy is an active, cross-sector movement.

We’re pleased to share a preliminary event report summarizing key themes, breakout discussions, and a full recording of the Policy Deep Dive session. This is an early snapshot of where alignment is forming and where collaboration is accelerating.

Read the preliminary report and join us in shaping what comes next.