Restoring our beaches and shores

silken_2021-06-10-0172.jpg

The Massachusetts Oyster Project is a non-profit working to strengthen our coastal environment by restoring native shellfish populations to our beaches and coastal estuaries. Through oyster cultivation, shell recycling, education and advocacy we can improve water quality, increase the diversity of sea life and mitigate the effects of climate change.

 

Stay Connected

 
IMG_1224.JPG

Highlights

OYSTER SHELL RECYCLING

Every year, we keep oyster shells out of landfills and use them to restore our beaches and shores.

What is an upweller?

Find our about how our upwellers grow oysters for restoration and where you can see one yourself!

The shop is open

We’ve reopened our online store. Check it out for great ways to show your support.

 
silken_2021-09-01-0089.jpeg

 Our Story

We all love eating oysters.

But did you know, not too long ago, huge underwater reefs made up of tens-of-thousands of oysters lined the Massachusetts coast. These reefs protected our shores, provided safe homes to countless species of plants and animals and helped keep our water clean; a single oyster filtering up to fifty gallons of water each day. 

Unfortunately, over time, boats have gotten bigger, waters have warmed and winter storms have worsened - decimating the natural oyster population.

Working closely with legislators and local industry officials, across a diverse set of programs, the Massachusetts Oyster Project is safely restoring oyster populations to our rivers, oceans and coastal estuaries.