Your personal dock may help clean local waters.
South Fork Sea Farmers, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the health of the South Fork’s marine environment, has announced the availability of home oyster growing kits for local homeowners with their own docks, bulkheads, or underwater land.
South Fork Sea Farmers will provide all the equipment and oyster seed to create a personal oyster “farm” at your home.
“The Town of East Hampton has provided opportunity for local residents to enhance the environment through its oyster gardening program. Although that program is full, we can now offer South Fork residents with private water rights the same opportunity,” said John “Barley” Dunne, the director of the East Hampton Shellfish Hatchery for The Town of East Hampton.
Oysters filter 50 gallons of water each day helping to keep the marine environment healthy and thriving, providing a positive environmental impact. By installing a personal oyster garden, residents can become stewards of the East End’s marine environment — and enjoy the fruits of their labor. South Fork Sea Farmers will help with installation and provide guidance on the maintenance of the garden.
Part of the purchase of the kit will be a tax-deductible contribution to the group’s mission. Started in 2019, that mission is to educate and raise awareness of the importance of sustainable marine aquaculture and to inspire constructive action programs. The goal is to promote and encourage more public oyster gardening which keeps waters clean, provides habitat for marine life, and improves the overall ecosystem.
To apply to be a part of the program, visit www.southforkseafarmers.org.