Along Cape Cod in Massachusetts, towns are under pressure to reduce nitrogen pollution and improve coastal water quality. Oyster aquaculture could be a cost effective strategy for removing excess nitrogen from the water while supporting a popular fishery. A Science Collaborative project based at Waquoit Bay Reserve evaluated the water quality impacts of three common shellfish culturing methods.

About this resource

The project team developed an eight part video series to share project results. The videos are designed to help local communities, town boards, planning commissions and regional water quality regulators better understand common methods of culturing oysters and how each method could affect water quality. The videos can be a standalone resource, or sections could be used in conjunction with a workshop or facilitated discussion.

The full video series is 34 minutes long, and each of the eight modules provides a short overview of a different topic. For example, the first video provides background on why nitrogen matters, the second video gives an overview of oyster aquaculture, and subsequent modules explain three commonly used oyster growing methods. The final video in the series summarizes project findings on nitrogen removal rates for each growing method.

Video series outline:

Part 1. The Big Picture
Part 2. The Community
Part 3. Nitrogen Issues
Part 4. Growing Systems
Part 5. Growing Bags
Part 6. Bottom Condos
Part 7. Mid-water Grows
Part 8. Conclusions

Contact

For questions about these videos and potential applications, contact: Tonna-Marie Surgeon-Rogers, Waquoit Bay Research Reserve, Email: tonna-marie.surgeon-rogers@mass.gov