Nature Conservancy Teaming Up with DuPont DeLisle to Rebuild Oyster Beds in St. Louis Bay – Volunteers Welcome!

June 22, 2007 - The Nature Conservancy is teaming up with Mississippi’s Department of Marine Resources, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and DuPont DeLisle to rebuild oyster reefs damaged by Hurricane Katrina.  They’re asking for your help, too!

The EPA’s Gulf of Mexico Program has provided funding for a shell plant in Biloxi Bay to supply materials to rebuild reefs.  The program will enhance habitat for a variety of finfish and shellfish, decrease shoreline erosion and improve water quality.  Oyster reefs act as natural buffers to shorelines, slowing wave energy before it reaches land.  This natural protection enhances the sustainability of coastal communities.

Mississippi also boasts an active commercial and recreational oyster fishery, as well.  With pilot project funding from the DuPont DeLisle plant, the Conservancy will begin to rebuild an oyster reef in St. Louis Bay.

The Nature Conservancy has invited DuPont DeLisle employees to assist in a pilot project to restore oyster beds in the St. Louis Bay.  This opportunity will allow for up to 10 people to participate.   Volunteers will be asked to fish on a new reef area and spend part of the time fishing on a non-reef bottom of similar depth.  Volunteers would be asked to spend 2 hours fishing at each site.  Sampling will be done on a moving tide.  The Nature Conservancy will supply bait, water and soft drinks.  A limited amount of tackle may be provided.