Waters, Phillip (PJ) L.
Auburn University
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Status: Past
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Project Date Range: 02-01-2022 to 01-31-2025
Keywords: Master Oyster Gardening Program, volunteer programs
Objectives
Establish a well-trained and well-informed base of volunteers that extends beyond the geographic and regulatory limits of oyster gardening programs in AL and MS.
Methodology
The Master Oyster Gardening Program will be a certification course designed to increase knowledge of oysters and other shellfish. This certification program will include a series of information sessions and field trips taught by local professionals in both Mississippi and Alabama specializing in the field, as well as engagement opportunities for participants to volunteer their efforts. Master Oyster Gardeners will promote environmental awareness through an experiential citizen science model across a wider geographic footprint by sharing their knowledge with community members and participating in projects or events throughout the region. To retain the certification volunteers must attend an oyster gardening workshop or maintain their own site annually along with participation in two advanced training sessions.
Rationale
Oyster reefs have been impacted more than any other marine ecosystem having lost around 85 of their historic range (Kroeger 2012). As a result of the success of oyster gardening programs in Alabama and Mississippi there has been a growing interest in experiential citizen-science opportunities particularly from those who do not own waterfront property. This program will be developed with a multi-faceted focus including bivalve restoration farming, personal consumption opportunities, (AL) hatchery/nursery elements, anatomy, ecology and food safety. The Master Oyster Gardening Program will allow for those with or without waterfront property to contribute to an active experiential program.