Biostimulants and other seaweed-derived agricultural inputs present unique regulatory challenges because they do not fit neatly within traditional state fertilizer laws. Unlike conventional fertilizers, much of the agricultural value of kelp extracts comes from compounds beyond nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Depending on the state, these products may be regulated as fertilizers, beneficial substances, or soil amendments, each with different registration, labeling, and reporting requirements. Additionally, certain claims about stimulating plant growth can trigger federal pesticide regulations, further complicating efforts to bring seaweed-based biostimulants to market.

As part of its AMC-funded Kelp Agricultural Product Development project, Pacific Kelp Company partnered with Kuhn Sustainability Solutions to produce a comprehensive regulatory roadmap for registering seaweed-derived agricultural inputs across all 50 states. The resulting 50-State Strategy Guide examines each state’s regulatory framework, recommended registration pathways, labeling requirements, fees, and administrative procedures. Review the report and overview presentation slideshow using the links below.

About the Alaska Mariculture Cluster

In September 2022, Southeast Conference was awarded a $49 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to stimulate private investment and grow Alaska’s mariculture industry to $100 million in sales in 10 years.  The Alaska Mariculture Cluster grant involves a large coalition of state agencies, Tribes, non-profits, and others working together over a five year period ending May 2027.