"Farming the ocean
draws many
parallels to farming
the land"

The Long-Term Success of Shellfish Farming Speaks to its Sustainability

Shellfish are filter feeders and as such they filter plankton (microscopic green plants) from the seawater converting it to wholesome animal protein. Their shape, the fullness and texture of the meat, and their flavor are determined by where they grow, how they are farmed and the plankton they eat. This sense of place - "terroir" - makes the various brands of mussels, oysters, and clams that American Mussel Harvesters, Inc. brings to the market the unique culinary experience they truly are!

Ecological Services of Shellfish Farming

1. Shellfish clean the water by filter feeding. We estimate that the oysters and mussels growing at Salt Water Farms clear 25 million gallons of bay water each day. This improves water quality by reducing turbidity, improving light penetration and reducing anoxia (low oxygen).
2. Shellfish convert nitrogen into edible animal protein. When harvested the nitrogen is permanently removed from the ecosystem. Excess nitrogen in coastal waters contributes to anoxia and kills fish.
3. Shellfish farms provide essential habitat for a wide variety of marine plants and animals.
4. Shellfish farms provide traditional marine related jobs in the local community.
5. Shellfish farms provide wholesome and tasty farmed goods to the restaurants that feature local foods.

Because of the environmental benefits of shellfish farming, shellfish are listed as "green" on the seafood consumer's guide of many environmental organizations.