We are thrilled to be hosting our 3rd Annual Houston Oyster & SeaFest this year. In 2023, we reclaimed 237 tons of oyster shell from 38 shell recycling partners as well as during the 2nd annual Houston Oyster & SeaFest and added seven new restaurants to our Oyster Shell Recycling Program bringing our total number of restaurants to 38. 

 

Through Habitat Restoration, our Oyster Shell Recycling Program promotes a sustainable Eastern oyster population by returning shucked oyster shells from local restaurants back to Galveston Bay to restore native oyster habitat. The Oyster Shell Recycling Program preserves a valuable resource while providing partnership opportunities and hands-on volunteer opportunities for schools, Scouts, and other groups seeking community service and research. By returning shucked oyster shells to Galveston Bay, the Galveston Bay Foundation is working to ensure a healthy oyster population for all to enjoy!

 

Managing this program since 2011, the Galveston Bay Foundation has collected over 1,730 tons (3.4 million pounds) of oyster shells to date. More than half of these recycled shells have been included in oyster reef restoration projects, and the remaining shells will be returned to the bay in the next three to five years. Galveston Bay Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 1987 to preserve and protect Galveston Bay as a healthy and productive place for generations to come.