Greenland conservation commission approves oyster reef restoration project pending NHDES approval

The Greenland Conservation Commission voted unanimously Feb. 11 to allow an oyster reef restoration project to move forward after scientists and local oyster farmers presented project details.

Researchers and growers from the University of New Hampshire and The Nature Conservancy, joined by Fox Point Oysters and Wagon Hill Oyster Farm, introduced the restoration plan. Presenters said about 7 acres of the proposed restoration fall inside Greenland and that the project is awaiting approval from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES).

Vice-chair Kathleen Babin-Johnson moved to advance the project; Commissioner Cindy Hoonhout seconded the motion, and the commission voted in favor. Present commissioners recorded in the minutes were Chair Jean Eno, Vice-chair Kathleen Babin-Johnson and Commissioner Cindy Hoonhout.

Project supporters at the meeting included Ray Grizzle, Ph.D., Krystin Ward (UNH), Brianna Group (The Nature Conservancy), Laura Brown (Fox Point Oysters) and Evan and Brit Clough (Wagon Hill Oyster Farm). Greenland resident Laura Byergo told the commission she has raised oysters in the Winnicut behind her home and was present for the presentation.

The minutes do not specify a timeline for NHDES review or any required permits. Commission members did not record conditions attached to the approval in the minutes; the action in the record is a vote to allow the project to move forward for subsequent permitting and review.