For generations, Eastern Bay has been a vital part of Maryland’s seafood economy, supporting a thriving oyster industry and the communities that depend on it. Eastern Bay’s oyster population was devastated by disease and poor environmental conditions in the late 1990s and has faced significant challenges towards recovery due to habitat loss, land use change and water quality, and management.
The State of Maryland has prioritized developing an inclusive and integrated approach to restore oysters to the region that relies on local knowledge from key oyster groups: restoration, aquaculture, and the wild harvest industry. Oyster Recovery Partnership, with support from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, convened the Eastern Bay Oyster Coalition to bring together watermen, environmental organizations, scientists, fishery managers and policymakers to ensure a future where Eastern Bay’s oysters – and the livelihoods they support – can thrive. The Eastern Bay Oyster Coalition developed a set of consensus recommendations, outlined in the newly released Sustainable Oyster Restoration and Management Plan for Eastern Bay, Maryland, to restore and sustain oyster populations and habitat in this critical area.
Why Eastern Bay?
Eastern Bay has long been recognized as an ecologically and economically valuable region for oyster restoration. Historically, it was one of Maryland’s most productive oyster areas, supporting both wild fisheries and seed programs. However, oyster populations have declined significantly, threatening not only the bay’s natural ecosystem but also the seafood industry and coastal communities that rely on it.
The Path Forward
This new plan outlines key recommendations and outcomes to rebuild and sustain oyster populations in Eastern Bay, including:
- Targeted Restoration Efforts – Using science-driven approaches supported by local expertise to enhance oyster habitat and repopulate key areas.
- Sustainable Management Practices – Implementing management strategies that balance economic opportunity with long-term ecological health for the wild oyster fishery, the growth of oyster aquaculture, and tourism.
- Collaborative Stewardship – Engaging the public to support Eastern Bay oyster production and culture, including bringing together watermen, conservation groups, and state and local policymakers to support a balanced, lasting solution.
Be Part of the Solution
Oysters are more than just a local delicacy—they are ecosystem engineers that improve water quality, support marine life, and support the Chesapeake Bay economy. By understanding and supporting sustainable restoration and management practices, we can help ensure Eastern Bay’s oysters remain a valuable resource for generations to come.
How You Can Help
READ THE SUMMARY REPORT to learn more about the plan and how you can support the future of Eastern Bay’s oyster fishery.
LEARN MORE about the Eastern Bay Oyster Coalition Workgroup’s members and consensus-building process.
This project is made possible through a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, EPA, and Chesapeake Bay Program. The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the opinions of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation or its funding sources. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute their endorsement by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation or its funding sources.