Massachusetts Oyster Shell Recycling Programs

Municipalities across the Commonwealth are seeing the benefit of shell recycling programs. We put together this page to be a resource to help you figure out if there’s a local place for you to drop off your shell. This is a work in progress, so we’ll update this page with more information as we find it. If you know about a program that you don’t see listed here, email us at contact@massoyster.org.

A guide recycling oysters

Before you drop off your shells, make sure you follow some simple rules to ensure your drop-off can get into the water as soon as possible.

  • Check program restrictions - Some towns only take shells from local waters, while some welcome shells from anywhere. Some only take oysters, while some accept all kinds of shellfish. Know before you go.

  • Only reuse shell via a shell recycling programs - Don’t just dump shells in the water. Oyster shells need to be cleaned before being using in natural oyster beds to ensure harmful bacteria don’t spread. They also need to be placed near active beds to ensure the best chance at growth.

  • Only recycle shells, not trash - Sort out any trash before you bring your shells. Separate napkins, lemon slices, and any other trash and dispose of them separately.

  • Rinse off sauces - Some programs ask you to rinse of any sauces (like cocktail sauce on oyster shells or garlic sauce on clams). It’s always a good idea. You don’t need to pick shells clean (or even clean them with soap and water), but a quick rinse in the sink or hose off outside will speed up the natural cleaning process.

  • Be understanding - Most of these programs are still new and on the smaller side. It will take your help and support to keep them successful.

Town-by-town listing

Barnstable

The town of Barnstable’s Natural Resources Staff have begun a Shell Recycling Program! Shell recycling bins can be found at Scudder Lane, Cordwood Landing, and Bridge Street Landing along with associated signage in an effort to collect only shells and not trash. These shells will then be brought to the Barnstable Transfer Station, where they will be aged. All species of shell are allowed in the recycling bins, regardless of whether they were harvested in Barnstable or purchased at a store. Find out more program details.

Brewster

Oyster shells are accepted at the Department of Natural Resources offices on Main Street. Find out more program details.

Hyannis

The town of Barnstable’s Natural Resources Staff have begun a Shell Recycling Program! Shell recycling bins can be found at Scudder Lane, Cordwood Landing, and Bridge Street Landing along with associated signage in an effort to collect only shells and not trash. These shells will then be brought to the Barnstable Transfer Station, where they will be aged. All species of shell are allowed in the recycling bins, regardless of whether they were harvested in Barnstable or purchased at a store. Find out more program details.

Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard shellfish group run a seasonal recycling program that supports both restaurants and personal recycling. There are public drop-off sites in Chillmark, Edgartown, and Oak Bluffs. Find out more about the program.

Nantucket

Nantucket has been running a large recycling program since 2014. They primarily work with restaurants and bars. For personal recycling (or if you want to participate), contact the town Natural Resources Department. Find out more program details and see participating restaurants.

Sandwich

Bring any oyster or quahog shells, from the Sandwich shellfish beds only, to Murkwood Conservation Area located at 479 Route 6A. There will be three black totes set up to put the shells in. The totes are located in the parking area to the right of the gate. Find out more program details. Read about the program on Cape News.

Wareham

Shells of shucked shellfish can be recycled by the Department of Natural Resources. Drop them off at the shell collection site located at 99 Charge Pond Road, Wareham, MA 02571. Find out more program details.

Wellfleet

Wellfleet SPAT recycles oyster shells from the annual Wellfleet Oysterfest.