Photo Credit: Michael Eversmier ©2009
Related Links
Oyster Harvest Maps
Pick a month from the drop down above to view the map.
Welcome to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Shellfish Division. We are striving to establish an expanded and sustainable population of native oysters in Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries and to re-establish an oyster industry that re-emerges as a major economic contributor in the Bay region.
Latest Headlines
- Oyster Restoration and Aquaculture Development Plan Open Houses Dates Set
View the open house presentation (.pdf) Click Here to Leave a Comment - Governor O’Malley announces Maryland’s Oyster Restoration and Aquaculture Development Draft Plan, establishing an expanding and sustainable population of native oysters in significant portions of Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
- New Laws for Shellfish Leaseholders
New laws became effective in Maryland on June 1, 2009 that require action on the part of all existing shellfish leaseholders. - 2009-2010 Maryland Monthly Oyster Report
All commercial Oysterman are required to submit a monthly oyster harvest report. Download or print the report here. - 2009 Fall Oyster Survey is Underway
Read reports from previous surveys here.
Ecological Restoration
Working closely with our partners to rehabilitate degraded habitat, improved bar quality and to plant disease-free hatchery oysters
Industry Revitalization
Helping individuals or business persons apply for leases and provide resources to watermen about the public oyster fishery
Monitoring and Assessment
Collecting data to guide decisions regarding protection, restoration and commercial harvest of oysters in Maryland.
Citizen Outreach
Initiated in 2008, the citizen outreach program know as Marylanders Grow Oysters is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources in conjunction with the Oyster Recovery Partnership, the University of Maryland and local organizations.