Harris Creek was selected as the first tributary for large-scale oyster restoration by the Maryland Interagency Workgroup based on water quality, available restorable bottom, protection from harvest, and historical spat set. It was established as a sanctuary in 2010 and restoration began in 2011.
Little Choptank River Restoration Project
The Little Choptank River was selected as the second tributary for large-scale oyster restoration by the Maryland Interagency Workgroup based on water quality favorable for oyster growth and reproduction, a large amount of restorable bottom, and good historical spat set. It was established as a sanctuary in 2010 and restoration began in 2014.
Tred Avon River Restoration Project
The Tred Avon River was selected as the third tributary for large-scale oyster restoration by the Maryland Interagency Workgroup based on water quality favorable for oyster growth and reproduction, available restorable bottom, and historical presence of oysters. It was established as a sanctuary in 2010 and restoration began in 2015.
Upper St. Mary’s River Restoration
Project
The Upper St. Mary’s River oyster sanctuary was selected as the fourth tributary in Maryland waters in 2017 for large-scale oyster restoration. Historically strong oyster recruitment, favorable water quality, its location in the Western Shore, as well as strong support from the local environmental community led to its selection for restoration. It was established as a sanctuary in 2010 and restoration is slated to begin in 2020.
Manokin River
Restoration Project
The Manokin River was recommended as the fifth large-scale tributary for oyster restoration in Maryland waters in September 2018. The Fisheries Goal Implementation Team accepted it as the fifth large-scale tributary for restoration in June 2019. Currently, a draft blueprint is being written with potential restoration areas and treatments. It was established as a sanctuary in 2010.