Annapolis, MD – According to Maryland Department of Agriculture… The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Maryland’s Best program, in partnership with the Oyster Recovery Partnership, announced Chesapeake Oyster Week, set to run from March 20 to 31. This initiative aims to showcase Maryland oysters, both wild-caught and farm-raised, while encouraging consumers to support local restaurants that contribute to the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay.
The event invites patrons to enjoy oysters through special deals, discounts, and promotions at participating establishments. By dining at these venues, individuals can play a direct role in oyster restoration efforts. Restaurants involved in the Shell Recycling Alliance collect used oyster shells, which are then recycled to build new reefs in the Bay. This process supports the growth of native oyster populations, improves water quality, and enhances habitat for marine life.
Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks emphasized the significance of the campaign. “We are proud supporters of Oyster Recovery Partnership’s Chesapeake Oyster Week, as Maryland oysters, both wild-caught and farm-raised, are delicious raw and cooked in a variety of recipes,” Atticks stated. He highlighted the nutritional value of oysters, describing them as an excellent source of protein and a low-calorie superfood rich in zinc, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are known to boost immune function, promote heart health, and support cognitive performance.
The Oyster Recovery Partnership, founded in 1994 and based in Annapolis, has made substantial contributions to Bay conservation. Through collaborations with major partners, the organization has planted 14 billion oysters across more than 3,000 acres of reef. Additionally, its Shell Recycling Alliance represents the nation’s largest network of this kind, recycling approximately 30,000 bushels of oyster shells each year. This effort involves a network of 200 restaurants and 70 public drop sites across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Ward Slacum, Executive Director of the Oyster Recovery Partnership, explained the full-cycle impact of participation. “Every oyster you enjoy during Chesapeake Oyster Week comes full circle, from plate to reef,” Slacum said. He noted that choosing local oysters at shell-recycling restaurants not only supports Maryland’s seafood industry but also invests in the long-term health of the Chesapeake. Recycled shells serve as the foundation for new reefs, fostering biodiversity and bolstering the local economy.
More than 60 restaurants in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., will participate in the week-long celebration. Patrons are encouraged to visit the Chesapeake Oyster Week webpage to discover participating businesses and their offerings, which may include oyster specials, happy hours, and unique menu items. The kickoff event for Chesapeake Oyster Week will occur at Guinness Open Gate Brewery’s Oyster & Music Festival on Friday, March 20. This gathering will feature locally sourced oysters paired with Guinness beer, accompanied by live music, creating an ideal setting to launch the festivities.
The initiative underscores the importance of sustainable practices in preserving the Chesapeake Bay’s ecosystem. Oysters naturally filter water, with a single adult oyster capable of cleaning up to 50 gallons per day. By promoting consumption and recycling, Chesapeake Oyster Week addresses challenges like overharvesting and habitat loss, ensuring future generations can enjoy this vital resource.
Restaurants interested in joining can contact Kaylee Fleury at the Oyster Recovery Partnership. For further details on the event, individuals may reach out to Matthew Scales, Maryland’s Best Seafood Marketing Director.
This annual event not only celebrates Maryland’s culinary heritage but also reinforces commitment to environmental stewardship. As the Chesapeake Bay remains a cornerstone of the state’s identity, initiatives like this highlight the interplay between economic vitality and conservation. For more information, visit Maryland Department of Agriculture.