Department of Marine Resources begins oyster relocation
GULFPORT, Miss. (AP) – More than 60 boats have been sent to the Mississippi Sound to start relocating oysters in an attempt to save them.
Media outlets report that Department of Marine Resources officials launched this emergency operation Monday to move oysters out of the western waters of the sound. The oysters will be relocated to the eastern part of the sound and Biloxi Back Bay.
The move became necessary after Louisiana opened the Bonnet Carre Spillway and fresh water threatened oyster reefs.
The agency hired local fishermen to save this year’s oyster crop, and potentially save their livelihoods as well.
Department of Marine Resources executive director Jamie Miller says the department is serious about the oyster industry and wants to keep fisherman employed.
Department officials say the relocation could take several days.
