Long Island Oyster Restoration Initiative

Seize the day, seed the bay!

CCE of Nassau County, through funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Long Island Sound Futures Fund, has created a replicable volunteer framework for community oyster gardening.

Oyster gardening in the non-commercial, volunteer-based aquaculture program for the restoration of oysters. Oyster gardening allows community members to be directly involved in oyster restoration.

Why oysters? Oyster reefs were once widespread throughout NY waterways leading up to the early 1900’s. Urbanization, industrialization, over harvesting, and disease led to a rapid decline in historic oyster populations. A single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day contributing to better water quality, habitat stabilization, and reefs provide erosion mitigation. 

Visit our website to learn more about this project as well as events, educational resources and Frequently asked Questions.

Want to get involved? Check out our partnering organizations. 

Last updated November 15, 2024