Home / Environment / NJ Shells Reborn as Vital Oyster Reefs
NJ Shells Reborn as Vital Oyster Reefs
27 Aug
Summary
- Used oyster and clam shells are recycled into vital habitats.
- A pilot program has grown into a statewide restoration effort.
- Federal funding supports expansion of oyster reef systems.
In 2019, New Jersey initiated a program to collect used oyster and clam shells, diverting them from landfills to support marine restoration. These shells are cleaned, cured for a minimum of six months, and then returned to rivers to provide essential hard surfaces for young oysters. This program, initially a small pilot with one restaurant partner, has now expanded significantly.
The initiative now encompasses dozens of partners across Atlantic, Cape May, and Ocean counties, alongside public drop-off points. This growth attracted federal attention, with NOAA's Coastal Management Program awarding over $1.2 million to further expand the program. This funding will enhance shell collection and planting efforts, aiming to create an additional 10 acres of reef habitat in the Mullica River and Great Bay estuary.
These oyster reefs offer numerous ecological benefits, including filtering water, improving clarity, and providing shelter for various marine species. They also act as natural buffers against wave energy, offering coastal protection. The program fosters community involvement through educational science projects tied to habitat restoration, connecting local schools and residents to the importance of these efforts.
