Shells for Shorelines
Transforming discarded oyster shells from local restaurants into valuable ecological assets.
At Tampa Bay Watch, we're turning the tide on shoreline restoration with our innovative Shells for Shorelines program. Launched in February 2022, this initiative showcases the power of community and environmental stewardship in action. Through our collaborative efforts with local restaurants, we give new life to used shells, transforming them into agents of environmental change.
How does it work?
Tampa Bay Watch collaborates with local seafood restaurants, offering a recycling service at no cost. Our aim is to streamline the recycling process for these establishments, ensuring it is both straightforward and minimally disruptive to their operations.
By the Numbers
Discover the ongoing impact of Shells for Shorelines through the live counter. This number Represents the total pounds of Oyster shell recycled since the program’s inception in 2022.
Eat More Oysters!
Explore the map to see our participating restaurant partners. Be a part of this sustainability movement by dining at one of these committed establishments.
The Process
Shell Retrieval
Restaurants save used oyster shells in designated 5-gallon buckets provided by Tampa Bay Watch. Tampa Bay Watch staff and volunteers collect these shells from participating restaurants.
Cleaning Process
The shells are transported to Tampa Bay Watch’s curing station at Fort De Soto to cure for a minimum of 90 days.
Ecosystem Integration
The cured shells are used to create shell bags and vertical oyster gardens distributed throughout Tampa Bay estuary.
Our Restaurant Partners
Interested in becoming a restaurant partner?
Contact Rick Radigan, Oyster Shell Program Manager:rradigan@tampabaywatch.org
PROGRAM SPONSORS
