On July 21 and 22, summer interns, Meghan Webster, Chandler Wyatt, and Michaela Richardson and staffer, Allison Rugila, conducted a survey of oyster bars planted by the Association in the St. Mary’s sanctuary. One and a half bushels of shell were sampled from each of the eight oyster bars and analyzed for oyster survival and spat recruitment.
“The survey gave us a lot of insight into the health of the river and status of it’s oyster reefs. It is rewarding to witness how the reefs have impacted the surrounding water quality and become established,” said intern, Chandler Wyatt. “It makes the future of having a healthy St. Mary’s river seem that much closer.”
According to our data, average survival rates in these bars exceed 55% while summer wild oyster recruitment appears to be reduced and delayed. Low recruitment levels are likely due to the prolonged low salinity and high temperatures (often below 12 ppt salinity and recently as high as 29 degrees C) observed in weekly water quality monitoring. Although these conditions are not ideal for spawning adults or larval oysters, natural recruitment is anticipated to pick up in August. Additionally, since May average water clarity has remained at or above 1 meter.
This survey also brought to light the extensive network of locals that are keeping watch over the sanctuary. Our boat quickly drew the attention of nearby homeowners and boaters (and even the Maryland Natural Resources Police) who quickly approached us and inquired about the survey. We can’t thank you enough for your diligence!
