In a major push towards the ecological restoration of the Chesapeake Bay, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has earmarked $10 million for the construction of new oyster reefs. This funding, provided under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, targets an existing Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oyster sanctuary.
The grant, stretching over four years, is set to bolster the infrastructure for building reef bases across approximately 50 to 75 acres. Additionally, it includes ground-truthing activities to assess the sanctuary area before commencing construction. This initiative is a part of NOAA's Transformational Habitat Restoration and Coastal Resilience Projects, aiming to fortify natural environments against climatic adversities.
Oyster shells laid out for a 2016 planting at an oyster restoration sanctuary. Maryland DNR photo
Josh Kurtz, Secretary of the Maryland DNR, expressed enthusiasm about the development. "This is an exciting time for oysters in the Chesapeake Bay," he remarked. Kurtz highlighted the timing of the grant, noting it aligns with the completion of the tributary phase of sanctuary construction and seeding. He anticipates this funding will significantly aid future oyster restoration efforts throughout Maryland.
The project will focus on one of several proposed sanctuaries, with the Maryland DNR having identified potential sites. These sites are set for presentation and stakeholder feedback during the Oyster Advisory Commission meeting on August 19.
This financial boost coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Chesapeake Bay Program's 2014 Watershed Agreement, which set a goal to restore oyster habitats and populations in 10 tributaries across Maryland and Virginia by 2025. The current progress report states that four of Maryland's five large-scale oyster sanctuaries are initially complete. The final sanctuary at Manokin River is on track for completion by the target year.
Maryland boasts over 1,000 acres of restored oyster reefs, translating to about 1.5 square miles. The state has seen record-setting oyster spat plantings and robust natural spatset in the previous year. The eastern oyster, native to the Bay, plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing habitat and acting as a natural water filter, capable of filtering more than 10 gallons per day per adult oyster.
The economic impact of these restoration efforts is notable. The 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 oyster harvest seasons brought in significant dockside values of $21.5 million and $31 million, respectively, marking the highest landfall of oysters since 1987.
This grant represents a vital step in sustaining the Chesapeake Bay's environmental and economic vitality, underscoring the importance of community and governmental collaboration in environmental conservation initiatives.
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