Governor Hogan’s Administration asked federal leaders to put planned oyster restoration for our Midshore rivers on hold.

As the result of a closed meeting with watermen, the Hogan Administration asked the US Army Corps of Engineers to delay future restoration efforts on the Tred Avon River Sanctuary. Even with oysters at 1% of their historic population the watermen oppose the use of sanctuaries and would prefer to harvest more bottom, dredge away any chance of three-dimensional reefs, and backtrack on the progress made through restoration.

The watermen argued that their science shows restoration efforts in the previously completed Harris Creek Sanctuary are not performing as planned. In fact, preliminary results from the Oyster Metrics Workgroup show areas that had less than one oyster per square meter now have upwards of 25:1.

Delaying oyster restoration in our Midshore rivers:

• is a waste of taxpayer dollars and federal funds - Funding is secured and earmarked for the Tred Avon River Sanctuary and threatens to be lost if the project is not completed;
• is premature - The five year review of the oyster plan is scheduled to be released this summer; and
• threatens the progress being made to restore this vital resource - We can fear for the future of oyster restoration once momentum slows down.

At Midshore Riverkeeper Conservancy, we believe that leaving oysters in the water is better for their population, the health of our rivers, and the overall quality of the Bay. Through our Marylanders Grow Oysters program, our water quality monitoring, and support from members like you we fight everyday for the protection of oysters and the overall health of the rivers. If you feel the same way we do then join us in demanding the Governor to continue protecting our oysters and cleaning up our local rivers!

Tell Governor Hogan that Marylanders want oyster restoration to continue!  Click on Start Writing to send your email.