Maryland’s shellfish aquaculture operations have set a new record, harvesting 94,286 bushels of oysters in 2023, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This milestone highlights the steady growth of the state’s aquaculture industry, which complements the traditional public oyster fishery.
“Though the shellfish aquaculture harvest is small in comparison to the public fishery, it is growing steadily and the farmer’s product is available throughout the year,” said Brian R. Callam, Ph.D., director of DNR’s Aquaculture and Industry Enhancement Division.
The state’s shellfish farming businesses utilize two types of leases: submerged land leases and water column leases. Submerged land leases involve growing shellfish directly on the seafloor, while water column leases use cages or other containers suspended in the water. Maryland currently leases 7,478 acres of state waters to 466 commercial shellfish operations, with 6,964.32 acres for submerged land leases and 514.16 acres for water column leases.
In 2023, the majority of the harvest, 66.6 percent, came from submerged land leases, with water column leases accounting for 33.4 percent. The total harvest of 94,286 bushels in 2023 slightly surpassed the previous year’s total of 94,257 bushels.
Comparatively, the state’s public oyster fishery harvested 548,558 bushels during the 2021-2022 season and increased significantly to 722,850 bushels in the 2022-2023 season.
The economic impact of Maryland’s shellfish aquaculture is estimated to exceed $13 million annually, underlining the industry’s importance to the state’s economy. For more information, interested parties can visit the DNR’s Aquaculture Program website.
Maryland Shellfish Aquaculture Harvest Totals by Year:
- 2023: 94,286 bushels
- 2022: 94,257 bushels
- 2021: 90,029 bushels
- 2020: 47,081 bushels
- 2019: 54,904 bushels
- 2018: 57,543 bushels
- 2017: 74,066 bushels
- 2016: 63,239 bushels
- 2015: 50,636 bushels
- 2014: 34,173 bushels
- 2013: 22,428 bushels
This progression highlights the significant advancements and increased efficiency within the aquaculture sector over the past decade. The data shows a marked increase from 22,428 bushels in 2013 to the record-breaking 94,286 bushels in 2023, reflecting both technological improvements and expanded operations.
Maryland’s shellfish aquaculture industry is poised for continued growth as it adapts to meet increasing demand for sustainable seafood. The dual leasing system of submerged land and water column options allows for flexible and diverse farming methods, ensuring a year-round supply of high-quality oysters.
