Incorporating Oysters Into Living Shorelines

Introduction

• Living Shorelines: A method to protect tidal shorelines from erosion using native plants and bioengineering materials (e.g., coconut-fiber rolls, oyster reefs).
• Oyster Reefs Benefits:
  • Protect shorelines
  • Improve water quality by filtering water
  • Provide habitat for aquatic species
  • Support the local economy

Site Suitability for Oysters

• Salinity:
  • Check if oysters are naturally present.
  • If absent, ensure salinity is above 8 ppt.
• Bottom Type:
  • Ideal: Sandy and firm
  • Muddy conditions are common; assess stability (e.g., sinking depth, underlying sand)
• Other Conditions:
  • Erosion sources: Fetch, tidal current, tide range, boat wake

Key Factors in Design

• Fetch:
  • Affects wave size; must be below 1.5 miles for permits
  • Calculation: Use Google Earth Pro for measurement
• Wave Crest Height:
  • Estimated using wind speed, duration, and fetch length
• Filter Cloth: Prevents substrates from subsiding, especially in muddy conditions

Types of Oyster Substrates

Loose Recycled Oyster Shell

• Weight: 40-45 lbs/bushel
• Suitable for: Low energy and muddy conditions
• Permit: Group One Living Shoreline
• Cost: Grant-based

Oyster Shell Bags

• Weight: 15 lbs/bag
• Suitable for: Low energy and muddy conditions
• Permit: Group One Living Shoreline
• Stacking: Max three high

Oyster Castles

• Weight: 30 lbs/block
• Suitable for: Higher energy and muddy conditions
• Permit: Group Two Living Shoreline
• Cost: $6.50/block + shipping

Reef Balls

• Material: Concrete structures, can be preloaded with oyster larvae
• Suitable for: Higher energy, not muddy conditions
• Permit: Group Two Living Shoreline

Ready Reef Structures

• Use: Break wave energy, recruit wild oysters
• Suitable for: Higher energy, not muddy conditions
• Cost: $15-$250 per structure

Sandbar Oyster Catcher Table & Pillow

• Material: Plant fiber cloth with hardening agent
• Suitable for: Higher energy, suitable for muddy conditions

Recommendations

• Consult a professional before installation and purchasing materials.
• Utilize living shoreline maps and tools for site assessment.
• Installation period is generally from April to October.

Contacts and Credits

• Chesapeake Bay Foundation: Contact Kati Grigsby ([email protected]) for more information.
• Photo Credits: CBF Staff, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Ready Reef Inc., Norman Colpitts, Oyster Catcher Hardscape.