Peer-to-pier oyster farming

Within the past eight years, a number of commercial off-bottom oyster farms have been established in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and with significant interest being exhibited in Mississippi. There are 15 commercial oyster farms in Alabama, all established since 2010. Although mostly on a small-scale, these oyster farms have established the potential for off-bottom oyster farming in the South and Gulf Coast region. These businesses have found a ready market for locally produced, premium oysters. Despite opportunities, the new industry faces significant challenges with regard to increasing production efficiency, improving product quality and consistency, assuring product safety, disaster preparation, permitting and marketing. (Source: Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium blog 01/24/18) Oyster South Symposium II: The second Oyster South Symposium, a meeting for producers, gear suppliers, distributors, chefs, food writers, vendors, researchers, students, and managers from the Southeast, will be Feb. 9-10 in Charleston, S.C. There will be discussions of pressing issues; and relevant, practical research on oyster aquaculture. Registration includes admission to all sessions and trade show. This year’s symposium will feature talks on triploid oyster performance, hurricane preparation and recovery, useful tools and techniques, and a discussion about branding. (Source: http://oystersouth.com/events/