Oyster Shell Recycling Program
Board of Directors,
Massachusetts Oyster Project
Joining the Organization
When I joined the Board of Directors in summer of 2020, I was energized by the idea of using a nature-based solution, oysters, to help combat the climate crisis. However, our oyster shell recycling program was on hiatus and I took on revamping and relaunching it for summer 2021.
Building the Program
The biggest challenge was finding a place to store and age the shells, which is mandated by law to stop the spread of bacteria and disease from harming sea life. I forged a mutually beneficial partnership with the Wellfleet Shellfish Department on Cape Cod, MA. They provided space for us to store the shells and then used them to provide habitat for their wild oyster recruitment in Chipman's Cove. I then raised the funds ($10k), designed the pick up program, and managed it's implementation.
Staff member dropping shells off during collection season
The Results!
As of October 2024, we have collected over 90 tons (180,000 pounds or 81,000 kilograms) of oyster shells that have been returned to the ocean as habitat for oysters who will filter the water, slow eutrophication, and with time create an oyster reef that will help protect the shoreline from erosion. We also have expanded our program to over 20 restaurants and now have two aging sites. The 2025 summer season will mark the program's 5th year!
The specially designed boat depositing oyster shells on the ocean floor