Vertical Oyster Garden Program
What is a Vertical Oyster Garden?
A vertical oyster garden (VOG) is a simple and effective way to help restore oyster populations in our bays. It consists of cured oyster shells strung together and hung vertically from docks or piers. As the garden hangs in the water, young oysters, called spat, attach to the shells and begin to grow. These gardens not only support oyster restoration but also help improve water quality by filtering the water and providing habitat for other marine life. Vertical oyster gardens are a great way for waterfront property owners to get involved in conservation efforts!
Why Oysters?
Water Filtration
A single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water a day, removing excess nutrients, pollutants, and sediments. This natural filtration process helps maintain water clarity and quality.
Habitat Creation
Oysters provide a solid structure that offers habitat and shelter for numerous marine species, including fish, crabs, and other invertebrates.
Nutrient Cycling
Oysters play a significant role in nutrient cycling, particularly in nitrogen removal. They can help reduce the effects of nutrient pollution, which can lead to harmful algal blooms and dead zones.
Become an Oyster Gardener!
If you have access to a dock in any of the circled bays, we welcome you to apply to host your very own oyster gardens!
Levels of Involvement
Level 1
For the gardeners that just want to be involved! VOGS are suspended from docks to recruit oyster growth and are not monitored further.
Level 2
Gardeners hang VOGS from docks and provide updated images and weights to the Estuary Program monthly.
Level 3
Gardeners participate in monthly monitoring of their VOG(s) including weighing and taking photos, identifying VOG critters, and measuring and counting spat.
Want us to come monitor for you? Let us know in your application!
Creatures of the VOGs
Here are some creatures that you may encounter when monitoring your VOGs!
