In scale of operations, variety of species produced, amount of financial backing, and degree of popular and official support, the Japanese fisheries restocking program (saibai gyogyo) is unique. From its birth in 1962 when the government established two hatcheries on the Seto Inland Sea, it has undergone continuous expansion. By 1982, some 37 coastal prefectures are scheduled to have sea farming centers operating. Seven national centers have been opened and five more are under construction. There are also 11 other semi-government or private hatcheries. This articles takes a look at these restocking programs and its implication.a