Congressman Harris Applauds $1 Million USDA Grant to Expand Blue Catfish Processing in Maryland

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for awarding $1 million through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) to BSA Seafood LLC to expand invasive blue catfish processing in Maryland's First District.

This investment supports BSA Seafood, LLC of Grasonville, Maryland as it expands its processing capacity by purchasing and installing new equipment at its facility. This will increase the company’s ability to source invasive blue catfish from regional watermen and bring more value-added seafood products to market. The project is expected to remove more than 500,000 pounds of invasive blue catfish from the Chesapeake Bay annually, create 20 full-time jobs, and retain 15 existing positions.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“I’m grateful to USDA and Secretary Rollins for this significant investment to combat invasive blue catfish in the Eastern Shore. This funding gives BSA Seafood the resources to expand blue catfish processing, open new market opportunities, and create good-paying jobs in my district. It directly supports our watermen and seafood processors and turns a growing challenge in the Chesapeake Bay into long-term economic growth for Maryland.”

Statement from Amanda Williams of BSA Seafood:

“We’re incredibly grateful to receive this funding and excited about the opportunity to continue growing our operations and supporting Maryland’s seafood industry. This investment will allow us to expand our capabilities and create new opportunities in the region. We're grateful to Congressman Harris for his support throughout this process."

For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov