What Makes Oysters Happy?

With more tributary rivers per linear coastline mile than any other region in the country, Connecticut offers an ideal environment for oysters to flourish. While industrialization and over-harvesting caused a precipitous decline in the 20th century, the bivalves are making a comeback. University of Connecticut researcher Dr. Zofia Baumann, using a grant from the Quinnipiac River Fund, is studying the oyster-rich shores of Morris Creek to gain a better understanding of what makes them thrive.

“By studying where we know oysters are happy, we can help restoration efforts and hopefully continue to see a resurgence in the population of oysters and other marine life,” Dr. Baumann says. She is engaging volunteers to help measure and track the oyster sizes, reef density and water quality. Her work is also building public awareness of the local ecology. Read the full story here.

The Quinnipiac River Fund annually grants more than $100,000 to projects working to improve the health of the watershed. Project applications for 2023 are due January 20.