In a news release, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Gulf of Mexico Program has unveiled a set of recommendations aimed at expediting the restoration of oysters in the Gulf of Mexico. The comprehensive report outlines eight key strategies for oyster restoration, proposing a federal allocation of $40-50 million to each of the five Gulf states to implement these strategies and related initiatives.

Bob Bendick, Director of TNC Gulf of Mexico Program, emphasized the urgency of the situation despite ongoing efforts by various entities.

"Despite the concerted efforts of state and federal agencies, increasing restoration of oyster reefs by the private and public sectors, the growth of the oyster aquaculture industry, important oyster restoration research, and funding for improving the condition of the Gulf as a whole, the extent and condition of most oyster reefs in all five Gulf states has continued to decline," Bendick said "With this decline, the people of the Gulf region are losing the economic and cultural value of the oyster industry and the important ecosystem services, like cleaner water, protection from storms, and fish habitat provided by oysters and oyster reefs. Current restoration and management efforts, while very much in the right direction, are not sufficient to reverse that decline. Additional decisive action is needed to address this problem."

For over a decade, The Nature Conservancy has been actively involved in building oyster reefs in the Gulf, across the United States, and internationally. Possessing firsthand insights into the complexities of oyster restoration, gained through practical experience, collaborative efforts with other scientists, and engagement with government agencies, the Conservancy proposes the following overarching strategies for oyster restoration in the Gulf:

• Develop and implement actionable bay-scale and state oyster restoration and management plans.
• Employ new techniques to increase the scale and pace of oyster reef restoration.
• Facilitate the exchange and application of science and restoration ideas among stakeholders.
• Support oyster aquaculture.
• Restore and maintain freshwater inflows and water quality to estuaries.
• Institute shell retention programs and identify new sources of cultch material.
• Manage oyster populations based on the multiple benefits of oysters.
• Monitor oyster restoration and apply adaptive management based on monitoring results.

The implementation of these strategies will necessitate additional investments, including funds from the settlement of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and federal infrastructure and coastal resilience programs. The Conservancy estimates that an allocation of $40-50 million to each state could support planning and on-the-ground action, aiming to restore the critical mass of oysters required for self-sustaining populations in major estuaries.

An exemplary case comes from Pensacola Bay in Florida, where stakeholders participated in a planning process to identify goals for oyster restoration. The Pensacola and Perdido Bays Estuary Program has secured federal funding to initiate the implementation of that plan.

Commenting on the prospects for successful oyster restoration, Bendick emphasized the collaborative effort required for a long-term commitment.

"Oyster restoration in the Gulf is challenging and requires a long-term effort, but we believe that by multiple agencies and groups working together to plan for and execute oyster restoration on a bay-by-bay basis, we can reverse the decline of the Gulf's oysters," Bendick said. "In doing so, we can greatly improve the overall health of the Gulf's estuaries and rebuild a sustainable wild oyster harvest. This result is certainly worth the investment in oyster restoration."

The Nature Conservancy, a global conservation organization committed to preserving critical ecosystems, employs scientific principles to develop innovative solutions for challenges affecting the environment. Addressing climate change, conserving vast tracts of land and water, ensuring sustainable food and water sources, and contributing to urban sustainability are key focal points. Operating in over 70 countries and territories, the Conservancy adopts a collaborative approach involving local communities, governments, the private sector, and various partners. For more information, visit nature.org.