All aquaculture producers must gain approval from which agency when collecting broodstock from the wild?

Aquaculture producers must gain approval from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission when collecting broodstock from the wild. This is crucial because the collection of wild broodstock can significantly impact local fish populations and ecosystems. The commission is responsible for managing and protecting wildlife and aquatic resources, ensuring that any collection does not adversely affect the species' sustainability or the environment.

Regulatory oversight from the commission helps maintain ecological balance and monitors factors such as fish populations, habitat conservation, and the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. Approval ensures that aquaculture practices are conducted sustainably and in accordance with state regulations, reducing the risk of overharvesting and disturbance to native species.

In contrast, while other departments, such as the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, may have roles in broader environmental or agricultural practices, it is the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission specifically that deals with wildlife resources and the regulations surrounding their use in aquaculture. Therefore, their approval is a necessary step for aquaculture producers to ensure responsible and sustainable practices in broodstock collection.