The Importance of Oysters
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Oysters are more than just a delicious seafood option along the Alabama Gulf Coast—they are crucial to our marine ecosystem and local economy. Humans have enjoyed these briny bivalves for thousands of years. Not only are they tasty, but they're also packed with nutrients like protein, calcium, zinc, and vitamin B12. While we all love slurping down fresh Gulf oysters, there's a lot more to these creatures than just their irresistible flavor.
Environmental Benefits of Oysters
Did you know that a single oyster can filter up to 1.3 gallons of water per hour? This remarkable ability helps improve water quality in our coastal areas. Adult oysters can filter up to 15 gallons of water daily, making them natural water purifiers.
Our Local Oyster Industry
The oyster industry has been vital to Alabama's economy since the 1880s, with an average annual harvest of over a million pounds. Today, there are 13 commercial oyster farms operating in Alabama, covering about 25 acres. These farms take advantage of the warm, brackish waters of Mobile Bay and other coastal areas to produce plump, flavorful oysters.
However, it's crucial to protect the waters where oysters grow. The Alabama Department of Public Health regularly tests these waters to ensure safety, as factors like heavy rain and storm runoff can affect water quality. You can help by practicing environmentally friendly boating and following the Leave Only Footprints program when visiting coastal areas.
Oyster Recycling
The Alabama Coastal Foundation's Oyster Shell Recycling Program is one initiative making a difference. Since its inception in 2016, this program has collected used oyster shells from participating restaurants and returned them to Alabama waters after a curing process. These recycled shells serve multiple purposes.
- They provide a surface for baby oysters to grow
- They create habitat for fish, shrimp, and other sea creatures
- They help limit shoreline erosion by acting as natural breakwaters
- They contribute to improved water quality
As of July 2023, the program has collected over 21 million shells, equivalent to 334 dump trucks full or the weight of 444 elephants! This effort has covered 53.5 acres of coastal waters with recycled shells.
While some say it's best to only eat oysters in months ending with "r," modern food safety practices make it possible to enjoy these shellfish year-round. However, oyster lovers might prefer the cooler months when oysters tend to be plumper and firmer.
Next time you savor oysters at a restaurant on Alabama's Beaches, remember the journey of that shell and its potential to support future generations of oysters. By participating in recycling efforts and supporting sustainable practices, we can all help preserve our coastal ecosystem while enjoying the fruits of the sea.
