Volunteer
shell recycling volunteers
Oyster shell bags are the building blocks of restoration work, and we need your help to make them. In this activity suitable for teenagers and above, you’ll get your hands dirty, learn how we use recycled shells in the water, and have some fun!
Interested in hosting a shell bagging event for your group of 5 or more?
Contact Joe DiDomenico at jdidomenico@delawareestuary.org to schedule an event! Events are hosted in Wilmington, DE, and Philadelphia, PA.
For Individuals:
Volunteer bagging opportunities for the general public are typically hosted by PDE in the fall and spring. Registration is required for participation.
Upcoming Events:
Our seasonal public events for 2025 have passed – check this page in spring 2026 and make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to hear first about the next one!
Liability Waiver:
All participants must sign a liability waiver to participate. Anyone under 18 will need a parent/guardian signature.
Buy oyster shells
Are you a restoration practitioner or project manager looking to use recycled oyster shell for your next shoreline protection project?
Contact Leah Morgan at lmorgan@delawareestuary.org for more information about availability of loose or bagged recycled oyster shell for sale. Revenue from sales of recycled oyster shell directly support the operations of PDE’s Oyster Shell Recycling Program.
Recycle YOUR oyster shells
Preparing oysters at home is fun! Instead of tossing your used oyster shells in the trash, recycle them! We pick up the shells and use them for restoration projects such as living shorelines. Take your used shells from home to our specially marked drop-off bins located at:
Fishtown Seafood
Fishtown Location:
339 Belgrade St, Philadelphia, PA 19125
Fitler Square Location:
2123 Pine St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
