The project will build new oyster reefs in St. George Sound that will reduce wave energy, allowing for the creation of large intertidal salt marsh closer to the shore. The oyster reefs and salt marsh will provide habitat for fish and wildlife, stabilize the shoreline, and protect Highway 98 and other infrastructure from storm surge. In addition to improving coastal resiliency, the project will provide many opportunities for job training, workforce development, and environmental stewardship programs. This project will complement other efforts funded by Deepwater Horizon spill funds. For example, the oyster reefs will increase the available oyster larvae, which could help colonize the cultch placed by a preceding oyster project funded by the Natural Resources Damage Assessment.

PROJECT COST: $10,000,000
LEAD ORGANIZATION: Ecology and Environment, Inc.
PARTNERS: Apalachicola NERR, Apalachee Regional Planning Council, Florida DEP, FWC, FDOT, FDACS

Additional Benefits:

  • Socially Vulnerable Population Benefiting: 3,000
  • Critical Facilities in Vicinity: 19
  • Miles of Transportation Routes Protected: 6
State, Estuary, and Project Type for this project:
Florida Apalachicola Bay Oyster Reefs & Shorelines