Long before cownose rays were observed disrupting oyster restoration efforts, they likely played an important role in helping oysters spread throughout the Chesapeake Bay.
The angler’s adage “It’s called fishin’, not catchin'” doesn’t apply to the nearly 150 taggers that caught and tagged a collective 16,451 fish in 2010. Those who tagged the most fish were recognized at the Virginia Game Fish Tagging Program’s Tagger Awards on March 3, held at Bass Pro Shop in Hampton, VA.
Virginia oyster growers and researchers found that simply moving oysters to saltier waters before harvest is just as effective at reducing Vibrio as more costly treatment methods, such as high-pressure treatment or low-dose radiation. Local growers secured research funding through Virginia Sea Grant’s partner Fishery Resource Grant Program and may have found an alternative treatment that could save time, money, and jobs.
One Eastern Shore aquaculture operation is pioneering the use of alternative energy solutions in Virginia fish farming—and hoping to set an example for other marine businesses in Virginia and beyond.
Your request has been submitted.
Stay up-to-date on fellowship, internship, training, and research funding opportunities offered by Virginia Sea Grant.
