ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Two Eastern Shore waterways will get $7.5 million for oyster restoration under Maryland's proposed state budget.
Harris Creek and the Little Choptank River would receive funding for the placement of oyster shells, limestone, granite or other substrate to create habitat in the waterways, which are home to two of the state's new oyster sanctuaries. The Department of Natural Resources says it believes oysters will survive in the waterways if they have a substrate on which to grow.
The Star Democrat of Easton (http://bit.ly/xIaubw) reported the project is part of a state effort to restore oysters in 20 bay tributaries.
DNR official Mike Naylor says the department is looking for
shells and other substrate. Naylor said it takes 2,500 bushels of shells to cover one acre with one inch of shell.
