Our Hero – The Oyster
In our own backyard, the Barnegat Bay was once rich with oysters. Long Beach Island’s culture thrived from locals farming the bay to feed their families and supply restaurants. But as development grew, pollution destroyed the ecosystem. Water quality decreased, essential fish habitats vanished, and the oyster population dwindled. We found that this didn’t only happen in our local waters, but up and down the Eastern Seaboard and beyond as well.
Why are Oysters So Important?
- One adult oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day!
- Oyster shells can be removed from the waste stream and recycled.
- Shells can be used to create manmade oyster reefs which promote natural setting oysters (more oysters = more water filtered). All while improving habitat for other marine life as well.
- Shells can also be used to create living shorelines which help prevent erosion and storm surge.
- Can't forget that they just taste great! Whether raw or grilled each oyster is unique.
Learn to Shuck with JRF
Join a shucking class and master opening oysters.
NJ's First Shell/ Shellfish Exchange
Connecting farmers and shell recyclers with restoration projects statewide.
Recycle Your Shell
Follow the shell recycling process
Buy Jetty Rock Oysters
Shop online, enjoy in your own home.
Oyster Recycling Animated Video
