Oyster Shell Recycling Program

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Get Involved

Here are some ways you can participate in the Oyster Shell Recycling Program!

Support our restaurant partners

This program would not be possible without the participation and support of our restaurant partners. Treat yourself to a nice meal at one (or all!) of these fine establishments today!

Tour the map below to learn more about and locate our restaurant partners in Delaware and Philadelphia!

If your Delaware or Philadelphia restaurant is interested in participating in our recycling program, email Leah Morgan at lmorgan@delawareestuary.org.

Volunteer

 

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!

Liability Waiver:

All participants must sign a liability waiver to participate. Anyone under 18 will need a parent/guardian signature.

Interested in hosting a shell  bagging event for your groups of 5 or more?

Contact Jecy Klinkam at jklinkam@delawareestuary.org to get your group involved! We have opportunities in Wilmington, DE and Philadelphia, PA.

For Individuals:
Upcoming public shell bagging events

Philadelphia

Volunteer bagging opportunities for the general public are typically hosted by PDE in the fall and spring. Check this page and make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to hear first about the next one!

Cook with Oysters

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:

George and Sons’ Seafood Market & Oyster House
1216 Old Lancaster Pike
Hockessin, Delaware 19707

OR

Fishtown Seafood
339 Belgrade St, Philadelphia, PA 19125

Buy oyster shells

Buy oyster shells

We occasionally have shells available for purchase for restoration efforts in the Delaware Estuary. We only sell for restoration.  Delivery is available in some cases, but can always be picked up at our shell management areas in Wilmington, DE and Philadelphia. Availability of shell varies.  All proceeds are used to sustain the shell recycling program

Shell bags (~20lbs each, 18″L X 12:W) and bushels of loose shells are available.

Contact Leah Morgan, lmorgan@delawareestuary.org, for more information on buying oyster shell.