One of the barriers to the growth and development of the aquaculture industry in the 12-state North Central region is a lack of comprehensive information on the state laws and regulations that affect the industry. The North Central Regional Aquaculture Center and its advisory committees quickly recognized this problem and made it one of their highest priorities for research. Among the factors that cause the confusion are the many aspects or stages of producing and marketing aquacultural products. The long and complex chain of production, transportation and marketing may include issues such as land use planning and zoning, water pollution and state fisheries regulations, transportation requirements and food quality standards. Many public policies and a wide variety of public agencies are involved in regulating these aspects of aquacultural production and marketing.