Shellfish C.A.R.E. Program

Shellfish CARE

The Beginning of C.A.R.E.

The Shellfish Community Aquaculture for Restoration and Education (C.A.R.E) Program was officially launched in 2021 but development began in 2019. The purpose of the program is to provide an opportunity for local community members to participate in restoration efforts focusing on improving water quality and restoring oyster habitat. This hands-on approach allows program participants to learn about shellfish aquaculture and the benefits the organisms have on local waterbodies. This is a unique opportunity for community members of all ages and backgrounds to participate in a restoration activity and fosters a different type of connection to their local waterbodies.

About C.A.R.E.

The Shellfish C.A.R.E. program is an initiative of Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program. It is an opportunity for citizens to gain hands on scientific and restoration experience in a manageable way. Members will raise spat on shell (SOS) oysters in a modified milk crate or similar vessel for the months of July and August into September. SOS are oyster shells that have larval oysters set on them. As the oysters grow, members will clean and take weekly measurements of the oysters to track growth and survival. The ideal location and patrons for this program would be those with access to the water, either through a marina, yacht/boating club or other arrangements that can be made. One important detail to note is these oysters are NOT for human consumption. They are strictly for restoration purposes.

We have a dedicated website for Shellfish C.A.R.E. Please visit: