Join us and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources’ oyster team as we construct Manufactured Wire Reefs which will be used in future SCDNR oyster reef restoration projects!
Restaurants and the public recycle their oyster shell through SCDNR’s oyster shell recycling drop off sites. After the shell is quarantined and cleaned, it is added to wire cages, which are placed in the waterways. Spat, which are baby oysters, are attracted to and settle on the shell in these wire cages creating new oyster growth and eventually new oyster reefs.
Using power tools (experience not necessary), we will shape the wire into oyster cages and add recycled oyster shell inside. These wire oyster reefs will be used in future SCDNR oyster restoration projects in South Carolina, supporting our wild oyster populations and protecting shorelines.
What to wear/bring:
– Closed-toe shoes
– Weather appropriate clothes
– Hat or other sun protection
– Reusable water bottle (there will be a water cooler to refill)
Please note, this is challenging, but rewarding, work. If this is not within your wheelhouse, please check out our other volunteer and event opportunities here!
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Should we need to cancel due to weather, an email will be sent the evening prior to the event. If registration is full, please send me an email at brookeb@scccl.org and I will put you on the waitlist. If you need to back out before the event, please let me know, so I can fill your spot!
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Support for this work is funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s National Coastal Resilience grant with support from NOAA in which we were awarded with SCDNR and partners $1.2 million for oyster restoration in the Beaufort region. Read more about that award here.