When people ask me why I farm oysters, the answer is simple: because it helps. Oyster farming is one of those rare things you can do that actually gives back to the ocean. We’re putting something into the water—and the result is cleaner water, stronger marine ecosystems, and a great product that people love to eat. That makes this industry not only exciting, but deeply meaningful.
And what’s even more unbelievable? People are starting to get it. They’re choosing oysters. They’re voting with their dollars for a food that supports the environment instead of harming it. That’s incredible.
Built-In Sustainability
I love learning about new environmental initiatives aimed at preservation. However with oyster farming, we don’t need to start a new sustainability plan—just keep farming oysters. That’s how powerful this is. Oysters don’t require feed. They naturally filter the water—improving clarity and quality for everything else living in it. Farming oysters doesn’t take from wild populations or strip the ocean of its resources. It’s an example of how food production can work in balance with the planet.
The biggest question we ask ourselves is: how do we sustain this? How do we keep doing what we’re doing?
It Starts with Place
Where we grow our oysters is the most important factor. The Damariscotta River is a unique and pristine ecosystem—and protecting that place is essential. That’s why we work closely with our local conservation trust.
They’ve been doing incredible work protecting the land, improving access to the water for the community through trail systems, and preserving what matters most. Back in 2017, we started a river cleanup project. Now, multiple farms participate. Today, we’re growing oysters in partnership with the land trust—and doing what we can to support their work with our time and effort.
The connection between land and water is real. What happens in someone’s backyard—how they care for their property—ends up in our watershed. We’re lucky to have neighbors who understand that. And when visitors come to the farm, we take the opportunity to help tell that story.
Waste isn’t an Option
Oysters themselves don’t create waste—but farming gear can, if you’re not thoughtful. That’s why we buy the right gear, rig it properly, and spend a lot of time maintaining it. We know that once we put something in the water, it’s our responsibility. That means fewer lost cages, less waste, and a more efficient operation.
We’ve also made changes in our packaging. For years, we hated using styrofoam—but alternatives just didn’t hold up. Now, we’ve found eco-friendly shipping materials that get the job done without creating more landfill. It feels good to know that when a box leaves our farm, it doesn’t leave a big footprint behind.
As for energy? We’re part of a community solar program—and last month, we spent exactly $0 on electricity. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.
Efficiency is in Our DNA
We don’t use big holding tanks. We don’t run industrial trucks or giant systems. We run a tight ship—because we believe efficiency is part of sustainability. Our farm is designed to be low-impact from the start, and every season we look for ways to improve.
We believe in constant improvement. Always asking: What could be better? What else can we rethink?
That mindset comes from Maine’s deep-rooted fishing and aquaculture traditions. Just like the lobstermen who built sustainability into their practices generations ago, we know that long-term success depends on protecting the resource. We’ve also got the benefit of marine science partners and community programs that support what we do. Those values are in our bones—and they shape how we move forward.
It Takes All of Us
One thing I’ve learned is that it takes a lot of people to make this kind of work possible. Farmers, conservation groups, packaging suppliers, trucking companies, and even shell recycling programs all play a part. Everyone brings something to the table.
That shared sense of responsibility—of doing good work the right way—is what makes me optimistic about the future. We can keep making progress. We can keep doing better.
And we can keep farming oysters.
So thank you—for choosing oysters. You’re helping the ocean, one shell at a time.
