As oyster season closes, a new report shows that oyster reproduction had another positive year in Maryland.

According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the local shellfish population appears to be doing well in the Chesapeake Bay. Oyster sanctuaries were “abundant in many areas” during last year’s fall survey, which tested the Bay and its tributaries throughout Maryland, including the Potomac River.

Consistent rains during the first half of 2024 helped oyster reefs avoid parasitic diseases, and by mid-year, water salinity increased to support the growth of healthy spat. A spat is an oyster larva that attaches to a surface; a spat-on-shell is an oyster larva that has attached itself to an oyster shell.

“The 2024 Fall Survey confirms Maryland’s oyster population is doing well, with the key indicators showing encouraging results,” said Christopher Judy, director of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Shellfish Division. “Certain low salinity regions still need to improve, but overall the findings are promising for the near-term future of this vital species.“

These survey results come on the heels of the natural resources agency announcing three new sites for major oyster restoration in the Bay. Located in Anne Arundel and Dorchester counties, these sanctuaries are expected to help establish a more productive oyster habitat in Maryland.

It’s not just oyster sanctuaries that are experiencing growth—oyster harvesting is also increasing, showing a significant state population outside the sanctuaries. It is estimated that more than 430,000 bushels were commercially harvested from 2023-2024, a milestone that has only occurred five times in the past three decades.

“This season’s harvest far exceeded the average yield over the last several decades,” said Judy.

Local aquaculture operations also set a harvesting record for 2023, with more than 94,000 bushels accounted for. The shellfish aquaculture industry is expected to grow to have an economic impact of more than $13 million each year.