Chesapeake Bay Foundation Supports Disaster Request For Maryland’s Struggling Oyster Fishery

Amid challenging weather conditions and steep market competition, Governor Wes Moore and Maryland’s Congressional Delegation requested federal disaster relief funding for Maryland’s oyster fishery late last week.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Fishery Resource Disaster Assistance program can aid local fishing communities that have experienced unexpected losses. Maryland oystermen have battled an exceptionally challenging season due to extreme cold, icy conditions, and market competition. These issues have been compounded by the recent Potomac River sewage spill and consumer concerns, although oysters remain safe to eat in parts of the Bay open to harvest.

These challenges have severely limited oyster harvests despite a robust oyster population, as estimated by Maryland’s 2025 oyster stock assessment. Prior to 2025, oyster harvests had been steadily on the rise, reaching levels in 2024 not seen since the 1980s.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Maryland Executive Director Allison Colden issued the following statement:

“Despite a growing oyster population, Maryland’s watermen are feeling the pinch of extreme weather and market competition. We urge NOAA to approve these relief funds that will support working waterfront communities and invest in the future of clean water in the Chesapeake Bay.

“Between the public fishery and a growing aquaculture industry, people can enjoy Maryland oysters year-round. Oyster lovers should keep eating local and recycle your oyster shells—which we use to grow more oysters and restore the Bay.”