Symposium on Alternative SubStrate for Oysters

On February 26-28th, UMCES hosted a virtual symposium about alternative substrates for oysters. A lack of fresh shell substrate threatens the thriving oyster industry in Maryland, as well as restoration efforts. This symposium brought together academic and non-academic experts from across the United States to discuss the use of alternative substrates (e.g., limestone, concrete, etc.) to support Maryland’s oyster population. Over 300 people from across the world registered for the event, which included a mix of invited talks, contributed talks, plenary discussions, and informal “Chat n’ Chews” for lunchtime networking. The symposium was well attended and provided excellent information that will be used to guide efforts in Maryland as part of a Maryland General Assembly mandated program (SB830 2023). This effort is being led by Drs. Elizabeth North and Matt Gray at the Horn Point Laboratory. The symposium team also includes David Nemazie, Conor Keitzer, Roshni Nair, Monica Fabra, and Kurt Florez. IAN is providing logistical support, graphic design, and assistance with communication materials.

The Strengthening Habitats with Oysters on Retrofitted & Engineered Structures (SHORES) Symposium was held virtually on February 26–27, 2025. This symposium brought together experts worldwide to discuss their successes, strategies, and challenges regarding retrofitting new and existing structures to best support oysters and increase the structures' longevity. The talks addressed a variety of ecosystem services that accompany oyster integration, including shoreline stabilization, habitat formation, and improved water quality. Each day of the symposium started with a keynote speaker, followed by 15-minute talks, a chat n’ chew poster session, and ended with a panel discussion. The SHORES Symposium was the second symposium organized by Elizabeth North, Matthew Gray, Monica Fabra, Dave Nemazie, and William Nardin to help fill key knowledge gaps to better support Maryland’s oyster industries and restoration efforts as mandated by the SB830 program by the Maryland General Assembly. Conor Keitzer and Roshni Nair of IAN supported this effort by helping organize the SHORES symposium and will continue to work on a report that summarizes the findings and discussion from the symposium.

Advancing Maryland’s Oyster Future

In response to Maryland Senate Bill 830 (2022), the UMCES Horn Point Laboratory evaluated methods to enhance oyster production using alternative substrates and retrofits. As part of this effort, two virtual symposiums were held in 2024 and 2025 in collaboration with IAN. A variety of experts from all over the country and the world discussed their methods, challenges, and opportunities regarding oyster production in their region. Along with the symposium reports, a 271-page document was produced for the Maryland state legislature to highlight major findings from this research and help guide oyster management in the Chesapeake Bay. The final report can be found here.