Oyster Shell Recycling Program Helps Restore Gulf Shellfish Habitats

Oyster shells must cure in the sun for six months, which removes all of their organic material, before being recycled into the Gulf. Photo courtesy Republic Services.
An employee of Republic Services drops off oyster shells to cure at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Marine Resources Division property in Gulf Shores. Photo Courtesy Republic Services.
The first 10,000 collected oyster shells were utilized in the Mobile Bay Oyster Gardening Program. There are currently 70,000 new oysters growing on those shells. Photo Courtesy Republic Services.
Alabama Coastal Foundation is identifying more restoration projects where the recycled oyster shells can be put to use. Photo Courtesy Republic Services.