What we do
Volunteer-A-Pier connects local pier owners with oyster gardeners to increase oyster populations along creeks and rivers that feed into the Chesapeake Bay. We work with volunteers to grow and transplant oysters to local Chesapeake Bay Foundation protected reefs, and in the process educate local communities about their role in preserving our Bay for future generations.
Restore Oyster PopulationsVolunteer-A-Pier is a local volunteer organization committed to improving the health of the Bay through education and oyster gardening. |
Transparent PracticesWe believe in transparency and communication, recognizing the impact participating communities and volunteers have on our program. |
community involvementWe partner with local student- organizations, home owners associations, and Scout troops to provide education and volunteer opportunities |
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"Oysters are the great recyclers of our ecosystem." -National Geographic |
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Learn
Oysters remove cloudy sediment, pollutants, and algae from water. This filtering produces clearer waters which allow sunlight to reach underwater grasses that are essential to fostering a vibrant Bay ecology for all to enjoy. A single oyster can live 30-40 years and filter 50 gallons of water per day!
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Plan
When Capt. John Smith first sailed the Bay in 1600, he recorded that oysters “lay as thick as stones.” Over-harvesting and disease have reduced our Bay's oyster populations to 1% of historic level. We must turn the tide by growing oysters and putting them back to into protected Bay areas.
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Do
With each dock, each volunteer, and each outreach effort, we take a step closer to a healthier Chesapeake Bay. Please consider volunteering your pier, your time, and requesting a hands-on information session for groups of 20 or more. You can also donate funds to sustain our program
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