GOMESA Application Details

1. Title of Project: Oyster Restoration in the Mississippi Sound and Surrounding Estuaries Using Innovative Techniques
2. Location of Project: Mississippi Sound/ Biloxi Bay
3. Requesting Organization: Magnolia Key Oyster Co. in partnership with USM
4a. Name: Terry Boyd
4b. Position
4c. Phone Number: 228-217-1313
4d. Fax Number
4e. Address Line 1: 2508 Shelby Ln.
4e. Address Line 2
4e. City, State Zip: Ocean Springs, MS
4f. Email: magnoliakeyoysters@gmail.com
5. FundingRequested: $1,560,500
Awarded Amount:: $0
6. Other State or Federal Funding Sources: No
7a. Amount of Additional Funds: $0
7b. Source of Additional Funds
8. Total Project Funds Amount: $1,560,500
9. Project Description/Overview: This project aims to restore oyster populations in the Mississippi Sound and surrounding estuaries by utilizing both new, cutting-edge technology and proven reef restoration techniques. This project will employ a revolutionary new concept of oyster restoration by the deployment of oyster larvae, 6mm oyster seed via Agri drone, and ready to spawn 1.5” adult oysters. Over the length of this project, a three-step life cycle approach will be employed to increase oyster survivability and retention within the selected restoration sites. Water quality parameters and oyster disbursement rates will be monitored across the selected sites to measure the success of the project and to identify any necessary adaptations needed during the duration of the project. Step 1 of this project will produce and effectively distribute over 75 million ready-for-settlement oyster larvae in a new process that will help revolutionize how oyster restoration can be achieved. Step 2 will be the deployment of 15 million 6mm oyster seed by using cutting edge drone technology via Agri drone. Step 3 of this project will be the strategic deployment of 3 million 1.5” ready-to-spawn adult oysters. These deployment methods and the increase in oyster populations will complement the state’s existing cultch efforts to create a sustainable oyster habitat which will foster the return of a thriving commercial oyster industry in the state of Mississippi. At the conclusion of this project, there will be a measurable enhancement of oyster populations within the selected sites as well as an increase in biodiversity and support to the local ecosystem.
10. Project Goals/Objectives: Objectives 1. **Restoration of Oyster Population**: Increase the oyster population in the Mississippi Sound to historical levels. 2. **Habitat Enhancement**: Improve water quality and habitat complexity to support a diverse range of marine life. 3. **Innovative Deployment**: Utilize modern technology such as Agri drones for efficient and effective oyster seed deployment. 4. **Community Involvement**: Engage local communities and stakeholders in restoration efforts to foster stewardship and support for ongoing conservation.
11. Which of the following authorized uses set forth in the GOMESA Act does this project fall under?

(A) Projects and activities for the purpose of coastal protection, including conservation, coastal restoration, hurricane protection, and infrastructure directly affected by coastal wetlands losses: Yes: - **How It Meets the Criteria:** - **Coastal Protection and Restoration:** Oyster reefs are known to stabilize shorelines and reduce erosion by buffering wave action. By creating barriers along the coast, these reefs can protect coastal wetlands and slow the loss of land. - **Conservation:** Oysters filter and clean the water, improving water quality and clarity, which benefits the entire marine ecosystem. The increased clarity allows sunlight to penetrate deeper, which can help aquatic plants thrive and further stabilize the coastal environment. - **Hurricane Protection:** Although more indirect, healthy oyster reefs can potentially lessen storm surge impacts by reducing the wave energy before it reaches the shore, thus offering a natural form of hurricane protection. **In Summary** Oyster reefs are known to provide significant ecological benefits, including coastal protection and restoration. Oysters contribute to coastal protection by forming reefs that can stabilize sediments and reduce erosion. Their structures can help to dissipate wave energy, thereby providing a natural barrier against storm surges and hurricanes, which are critical in areas experiencing coastal wetland losses. Thus, a large-scale oyster seeding project directly contributes to coastal restoration and protection by building and reinforcing these natural structures.

(B) Mitigation of damage to fish, wildlife, or natural resources.: Yes: - **How It Meets the Criteria:** - Oyster reefs provide critical habitat for various species of fish and other marine life, which use these structures for feeding, spawning, and shelter. By increasing oyster populations, the project supports biodiversity and enhances the overall health of the ecosystem. - The filtration ability of oysters helps remove excess nutrients and pollutants from the water, mitigating the effects of eutrophication and improving conditions for fish and other wildlife. **In Summary** Oyster reefs play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. They provide habitat and breeding grounds for various species of fish and wildlife, enhancing biodiversity. Additionally, oysters are filter feeders, capable of improving water quality by removing pollutants and particulates. By enhancing the oyster population through seeding, the project helps to mitigate damage to the marine ecosystem, thus supporting the sustainability of fish, wildlife, and other natural resources.

(C) Implementation of a federally-approved marine, coastal, or conservation management plan.

(D) Mitigation of the impact of Outer Continental Shelf activities through funding of onshore infrastructure projects.

12. Project Timetable/Milestones: Project Timeline - **Phase 1: Planning and Site Selection** (Months 1-3) - Conduct site assessments and preparation of sites that are suitable for oyster deployment. - **Phase 2: Deployment** (Months 4-36) - Execute the disperse of oyster larvae , Agri drone deployment of 6mm oyster seed, and hand placement of 1.5" adult oysters. - **Phase 3: Monitoring and Maintenance** (Months 7-36) - Conduct regular monitoring and maintenance throughout the project duration to ensure effectiveness and success
13. Project Timing: Short-term
14. Current status of architectural/engineering plans & specifications for this project (if applicable):: In Progress Funds Budgeted

15. In what way does this project meet the goals and objectives of the Department of Marine Resources, which includes enhancing, protecting and conserving the marine interest of Mississippi for present and future generations?: An oyster seeding project can align closely with the goals and objectives of the Department of Marine Resources (DMR) in several ways: 1. **(Enhancing) Marine Habitats:** Oyster seeding contributes to the restoration and enhancement of oyster reefs, which are crucial marine habitats. These reefs provide habitat and nursery grounds for various marine species, thereby enhancing overall biodiversity. 2. **(Protecting) and Restoring Ecosystem Services:** Oyster reefs offer significant ecosystem services, such as water filtration, shoreline protection from erosion, and improving water quality by filtering pollutants. By restoring oyster populations, the project helps maintain these services, benefiting both marine life and coastal communities. 3. **(Conserving) Marine Resources:** Oysters are a valuable marine resource in Mississippi, supporting commercial and recreational fisheries. A seeding project can help sustainably manage these resources by replenishing depleted stocks and promoting responsible harvesting practices. **Additionally** 4. **Promoting Sustainability:** By focusing on oyster seeding, the DMR can promote sustainable aquaculture and fisheries practices. This approach ensures that oyster populations can support current and future generations without compromising the health of marine ecosystems. 5. **Educational and Community Engagement:** Oyster seeding projects often involve community participation and education initiatives. These programs raise awareness about marine conservation, engage local communities in stewardship activities, and foster a sense of responsibility towards marine resources. In summary, an oyster seeding project supports the DMR's goals by enhancing marine habitats, protecting ecosystem services, conserving marine resources, promoting sustainability, and engaging communities in marine conservation efforts. These efforts collectively contribute to the long-term health and resilience of Mississippi's marine environment for present and future generations.

16. Estimated Years To Completion: 3
17. Estimated Completion Date: 10/1/2028

Budget:

Salaries,Wages, Fringe: $575,000
Travel: $0
Architecture & Engineering: $0
Legal: $0
Consulting: $0
Construction: $0
Site Work: $670,500
Equipment: $300,000
Indirects: $15,000
Other: $0
Total: $1,560,500


Internal Project Number: 1300
Application Submission Date: 06/29/2024
Fiscal Year: 2026
Project Status
Application Status: Submitted
Meets Criteria
Internal Notes:

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