Oysters in mesh bags help maintain clean waterways.
Courtesy Toadfish
“I believe oysters are the solution. They offer one of the tangible ways to enhance water quality,” states Casey Davidson, founder and CEO of Toadfish. The company initiated the “Put ‘Em Back” movement to aid in cleaning waterways by replanting and restoring oyster habitats nationwide, often employing a water cannon for the task. How amazing is that?
Davidson accurately points out the role of shellfish in improving water quality. An individual oyster can filter as much as 50 gallons of water daily, aiding in the removal of harmful toxins that enter waterways via runoff. This action benefits all organisms sharing the water, including the vegetation that stabilizes the marsh and fish species favored by shallow-water anglers. Additionally, oyster reefs supply crucial structure for both baitfish and their predators.
There are several methods for returning oysters to the water. One method uses a barge and water cannon to distribute them over a wide area. Another method is community-driven, where volunteers place oysters in mesh bags along the shore. Typically, these bags are positioned on wooden pallets to prevent sinking into the mud. In other areas, wire cages are built for the shells, aiding in reef development.
So far, Toadfish has engaged in oyster projects across eight coastal states. This totals 280,214 square feet of oysters planted, which collectively filter an astonishing 82 million gallons of water daily. Want to make a difference? Support their efforts by purchasing their products. Since its inception in 2016, Toadfish has allocated 5 percent of its profits to oyster recycling and other conservation projects. To date, their donations have exceeded $500,000.