Mortalities of oysters reaching harvest size have been experienced by growers at some lease areas during late spring and summer. To begin to address these unexplainable mortalities, oyster production, along with basic but key water quality parameters, were monitored in 2020-21 at four farms in two lease areas. Results of this pilot study can be found here.
In 2023, a network of growers was formed across the state to increase the number of participating farms in a monitoring program providing greater replication and environmental gradients. Growers received equipment, sampling supplies, and guidance so information on water quality, oyster performance, and health could be obtained from farms in eight water bodies. Results can be found here (video, presentation-PDF file).
With NOAA funding, FARMS has now expanded to include oyster growers from Virginia to Texas. Here is what is happening during 2025-26:
