Abstract

Since the 1990s, research has shown the ability of oysters and other shellfish to filter the water column and therefore remove the effects of over nitrification in coastal waters. By using sustainable shellfish aquaculture, coastal states can create a process which can be used in conjunction with Section 303 of the United States’ Clean Water Act. Under Section 303, each state is required to produce a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) report for each of its bodies of water that are impacted by pollutants. This report identifies the pollutants; the current level of the pollutants; and the level to which the pollutants must be reduced. In addition, strategies must be identified to accomplish the goal of pollutant reduction. This paper discusses the feasibility of using sustainable shellfish aquaculture as a strategy for the removal of the effects of over-nitrification in the Total Management Daily Load process. Shellfish aquaculture can also provide benefits in increased public awareness of efforts to clean the local waters as well as creating an economic benefit for coastal communities in the form of new and environmentally sustainable shellfisheries.