Abstract
Oyster hatcheries are vital for off-bottom oyster farming; however, farmers in Gulf states of the USA have experienced challenges with access to hatcheries and seed availability. Hatcheries are responsible for rearing multiple life stages of juvenile oysters as well as providing sufficient microalgae to feed oysters. This study aimed to increase hatchery production and efficiency by using industrial engineering tools to evaluate microalgae culturing processes. This study also aimed to demonstrate how industrial engineering methodologies can improve efficiency, with findings from one hatchery applicable to other facilities using similar approaches. The major microalgae production processes conducted at the Michael C. Voisin Oyster Hatchery in Louisiana, USA, are outlined. Simulation models that represented typical workdays (combinations of the different processes) were constructed. These models analyzed time, personnel, and equipment requirements to assess resource efficiency. Recommendations for improving hatchery operations were then evaluated based on the findings. The first modification balanced workloads by pairing operators, allowing them to complete tasks more quickly and start other hatchery activities earlier. The second modification analyzed historical algae production data, revealing that overly extended culture periods were limiting hatchery productivity. The third modification found that implementing bioreactors could enhance overall production capacity, though further cost and equipment downtime analysis was necessary. Future research could evaluate all major hatchery activities (i.e., spawning, larval rearing) using simulation modeling to understand system-wide time, personnel, and equipment requirements. Applying industrial engineering to oyster hatchery management can enhance production efficiency and guide the development of new commercial hatcheries, increasing seed availability for the industry.