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VMRC scales back 2026 oyster replenishment after shell‑dredge accident, shifts to seed and alternative substrate
Summary
After a shell‑dredge was damaged and unavailable, VMRC approved a reduced 2026 oyster replenishment plan that prioritizes high‑need sites, increases seed planting, and uses alternative substrates (stone) while exploring incentives to rebuild the dredge.
VMRC staff told commissioners that the specialized shell‑dredge used to harvest fossil shell deposits for large‑scale reef planting was damaged when it ran aground and will be inoperable for the upcoming replenishment season. That equipment historically provided the majority of shell for the program; staff said its loss means the 2026 oyster replenishment program cannot meet prior scale and must be modified.
Deputy shellfish staff…
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